The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) has successfully overseen the initial export of premium Areko cherries and Scentrose plums from Jammu and Kashmir to the United Arab Emirates (UAE). This marks a significant achievement in broadening the global presence of high-value horticultural products from the Union Territory. The inaugural shipment, totaling one metric tonne of stone fruits sourced from farmers in Shopian and Pulwama districts, was virtually launched by APEDA Chairman Abhishek Dev for Abu Dhabi and Dubai, as announced by the Ministry of Commerce & Industry.
The export of these fruits highlights the increasing international demand for superior Indian produce and emphasizes the export potential within Jammu and Kashmir’s horticulture sector. APEDA Chairman Abhishek Dev commended the farmers and exporters, recognizing Jammu and Kashmir as a vital center for premium horticultural goods with substantial export opportunities. He reiterated APEDA’s commitment to supporting farmers by facilitating market access through export promotion initiatives, quality improvement, and global buyer engagement.
Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal also lauded this milestone, describing the first export of premium cherries and plums from India to Abu Dhabi and Dubai as a significant advancement for Jammu and Kashmir’s horticulture industry. This achievement further enhances the global reputation of Indian fruits. The initiative is anticipated to greatly benefit farmers by granting them entry into premium international markets and ensuring better price realization. Through the export supply chain, growers involved in this endeavor received nearly 60% higher returns for cherries and approximately 120% higher returns for plums compared to local market prices, showcasing the value addition attained through export-driven market access.
