New Delhi: The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) facilitated the first Kashmir fruit exports of premium Areko cherries and Scentrose plums from Jammu and Kashmir to Singapore. The shipment marked another step in expanding overseas markets for the region’s temperate fruits.
APEDA organised the flag-off ceremony on July 16. It worked with Osum Food Solutions LLP and Fruit Master Agro Fresh Private Limited, Pulwama, to dispatch the consignment.
The fruits came from orchards in Shopian and Pulwama. Earlier, APEDA had supported exports of fresh cherries and plums from the region to Abu Dhabi and Dubai. As a result, Kashmir’s premium fruits have expanded their presence in international markets.
The export consignment included premium Areko cherries, which are high-density European sweet cherries, and Scentrose plums. Moreover, the fruits were harvested, graded and packed using scientific methods.
Kashmir fruit exports expected to boost growers’ income
The consignment moved through a well-managed cold chain. Therefore, the fruits met international food safety and phytosanitary standards before reaching Singapore. The system also helped maintain freshness and quality during transport.
In addition, APEDA said the initiative could help growers earn more than 50 per cent higher returns than conventional marketing channels. The programme is also expected to encourage export-oriented production and wider adoption of scientific farming practices.
Furthermore, better post-harvest management could reduce crop losses and improve value realisation. The initiative is also expected to create sustainable livelihood opportunities for fruit-growing communities across Jammu and Kashmir.
Meanwhile, APEDA said the export reflected its efforts to strengthen India’s horticulture exports through market diversification, improved logistics and export facilitation. Finally, the authority said wider access to premium global markets would increase farmers’ incomes and reinforce Jammu and Kashmir’s reputation as a reliable supplier of high-value temperate fruits.
