India and Pakistan, despite being neighboring countries, have historically had strained relations. However, trade has persisted between the two nations over the years, with rock salt being a key commodity.
Although India has significantly reduced imports from Pakistan due to political tensions, there was a period when Pakistani rock salt played an essential role in India’s market. This article delves into the rock salt trade history, Pakistan’s salt production, and India’s shifting import strategy.
Pakistan supplied a staggering 99.7% of India’s total rock salt imports
In the fiscal year 2018-19, Pakistan supplied a staggering 99.7% of India’s total rock salt imports. The high-quality rock salt from Pakistan’s Khewra mines found a stable market in India due to its quality and relative proximity. However, with political relations worsening after 2019, India began reducing its dependence on Pakistan, seeking alternative sources for this essential mineral.
Transition to Other Suppliers in 2019
Starting in the fiscal year 2019-20, India began importing rock salt from other nations, with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) becoming a major supplier. India’s diversification strategy also included sourcing rock salt from countries like Malaysia, Germany, Iran, Afghanistan, Turkey, and Australia. This shift underscored India’s commitment to reducing reliance on Pakistan and ensuring a more stable supply chain for rock salt.
Pakistan's Khewra mine is known for its high-quality rock salt
Most of Pakistan’s rock salt comes from the Punjab province, particularly from the Khewra Salt Mine. Located in Jhelum district, around 160 kilometers from Islamabad, the Khewra Salt Mine is not only Pakistan’s largest but is also one of the oldest salt mines globally. Estimated to be around 2,000 years old, the Khewra mine is known for its high-quality rock salt, making it a valuable resource for export.
Besides Khewra, Pakistan has other significant salt mines such as Varcha, Jatta, and Korak, contributing to the country’s rock salt production. These mines collectively allow Pakistan to meet both domestic needs and export demands, reinforcing its position as a leading rock salt supplier in the region.
Pakistan Exports Rock to Various Countries
Pakistan exports rock salt to various countries, including India, China, the UAE, the United States, and several European nations. Through this trade, Pakistan earns substantial revenue, with rock salt contributing significantly to its export earnings. This mineral has become an essential asset for Pakistan’s economy, providing foreign exchange and supporting local employment in salt mining areas.
While the India-Pakistan rock salt trade has seen significant shifts, it highlights the adaptability of both nations in finding alternative resources amidst political challenges. With Pakistan continuing to expand its export markets, rock salt remains a crucial economic resource for the country, even as India has moved towards a more diversified import strategy.
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