Kasur / Okara / Lahore – Potato prices in several vegetable markets of Punjab, particularly in Kasur and Okara, have dropped to as low as Rs 10 per kilogram, marking one of the lowest levels in recent years. Market sources say that Kasur and Okara are among the largest potato-producing regions in Asia, where farmers cultivate potatoes on thousands of acres using modern agricultural techniques.
Traders and growers report that potato production this season has exceeded expectations,
resulting in a massive increase in supply across wholesale markets. Due to this surplus, average potato prices in many mandis are ranging between Rs 12 and Rs 15 per kilo, while in some areas they have fallen to Rs 10 per kilo.
Social media videos and images from vegetable markets show large heaps of potatoes and heavy buying activity by consumers. Along with potatoes, prices of onions, tomatoes, cabbage, radish and several other vegetables have also declined significantly.
According to traders, the Pakistan-Afghanistan border was closed for trade and movement on October 12, 2025, due to border tensions and security concerns. Several major crossing points, including Torkham and Chaman, remained closed in various phases until January 2026, a period of nearly three months. During this time, imports of vegetables from Afghanistan were limited, while domestic production in Pakistan increased, leading to improved availability and a sharp fall in prices.
Farmer organizations say that while consumers are benefiting from cheaper vegetables, growers are suffering heavy losses, as current prices do not even cover production costs. They have urged the government to allow export of potatoes and other vegetables and to announce a minimum support price to protect farmers from further losses.
Agricultural experts believe that opening export channels could help stabilize the market, support farmers’ incomes and also earn valuable foreign exchange for the country.
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