Pink Salt Saga: Navigating New Markets Amid India-Pakistan Trade Ban

Following the Pahalgam terror attack, India imposed a trade ban affecting the export of Himalayan Pink Salt from Pakistan, a major producer. This has urged Pakistani exporters to explore new global markets. Despite losing a significant importer, demand for the salt remains strong globally due to its perceived benefits.

In the wake of the Pahalgam terror attack, India's trade ban has disrupted exports of Himalayan Pink Salt from Pakistan, despite being a significant product for bilateral trade. This move comes after India shut the Attari land-transit post, intensifying tensions between the nations.

Pakistan, a leading producer of Himalayan Pink Salt, is now pivoting towards other markets, with trade figures revealing a notable growth of 10 percent in salt exports between November 2023 and October 2024. SMAP highlights steady global demand for the product due to its culinary and health benefits.

The existing geopolitical strain, worsened post-Pulwama attack, has seen trade plummet to USD 1.2 billion in 2024 from a peak of USD 3 billion in 2018. Nevertheless, Pakistan plans to capitalize on increased demand by leveraging new markets in the USA, China, and Europe while pursuing GI tagging to authenticate its product.

(With inputs from agencies.)