The prices of pine nut have recorded a major decline of 5o to 60%.  The price of one kilogram of pine nuts, which previously ranged between Rs15,000 and Rs18,000, has fallen to Rs6,000 to Rs9,000 per kilogram. In Balochistan’s Zhob and Sherani districts, pine nuts have even been sold for as low as Rs3,000 to Rs5,000 per kilogram this season. 

According to farmers and traders in Balochistan, the closure of the Pakistan-Afghanistan border and a shortage of rainfall are the major factors behind the price drop. Also, traders allege that their trucks are also stopped by custom officials leading to the deterioration of the dry fruit's quality.   Chilgoza is not an ordinary commodity. It is sensitive, expensive and highly perishable. Even small delays affect its worth.

When trucks are stopped for hours or a whole day, its price drops instantly  Traders say that whatever the reasons may be, consumers are making the most of this opportunity.  Experts note that if pine nuts are not stored in cold storage, they begin to lose weight. Due to the lack of cold-storage facilities in Balochistan, traders are compelled to sell pine nuts at reduced prices. 

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)