KARACHI: Winter markets usually push dry fruit prices upward, but pine nuts have delivered a pleasant surprise by falling to Rs 3,000 per kilogram.
Dry fruits are among nature’s finest gifts, consumed throughout the year but especially popular during winter due to their nutritional value. Among the favourites are peanuts, dried apricots, dates, figs, raisins and several others.
However, the most sought-after and traditionally expensive dry fruit has always been pine nuts, often considered out of reach for many middle-income households.
In recent years, pine nuts have largely disappeared from roadside stalls due to their skyrocketing prices. This flavourful delicacy has been sold for as high as Rs 12,000 to Rs 16,000 per kilogram.
But there is good news this season. Pine nuts are being sold for just Rs 3,000 per kilogram—bringing them within the purchasing power of the middle class once again.
However, this reduced price is not widespread. The cheaper pine nuts are currently available only in the Wana Bazaar area of South Waziristan (Lower).
Local shopkeepers say the same pine nuts were sold for Rs 8,000 to Rs 10,000 per kilogram last year in their region. This year, a larger crop yield has led to a significant drop in prices.