Tripura’s orange orchards are reporting healthy volumes this season, with the harvest window expected to run through February–March, supported by favourable weather conditions and improved orchard management practices.
Sukanta Paul, founder of fresh produce exporter Sukanta Overseas, said production has remained stable across 8,000–9,000 hectares under cultivation, largely managed by smallholder farmers. “The steady supply is helping meet both domestic demand and cross-border export requirements,” he noted.
Assam oranges—locally known as Khasi—continue to dominate cultivation and exports from Tripura. The indigenous variety is valued for its balanced sweetness, juicy flesh and distinct natural aroma. “Buyers clearly recognise these characteristics,” Paul said, adding that exports currently focus only on traditional varieties, with hybrid seedless types yet to be adopted.
While Maharashtra’s Nashik region leads India’s orange exports due to scale, infrastructure and sizing uniformity, Tripura oranges differentiate themselves through flavour, aroma and juiciness. According to Paul, this season’s fruit quality has improved over last year, with better size consistency, colour development, higher juice content and lower disease incidence across growing belts.
Farm-gate prices are ranging between USD 0.20 and USD 0.28 per kg, depending on fruit size, quality and location. Export-grade oranges are fetching prices at the higher end of the range. “Prices are moderately higher than last year, driven by improved quality and steady demand. Export volumes are similar, but better grading and sorting have helped stabilise returns for growers,” Paul said.
Bangladesh remains the primary export destination, benefiting from geographical proximity and strong demand for fresh Indian citrus. Trial shipments are also being sent to Nepal and Bhutan, where logistics are suitable for smaller volumes. Paul added that demand is largely driven by diaspora consumption and a preference for naturally ripened fruit. Middle Eastern markets such as the UAE and Oman are also being assessed for future growth potential.
However, logistical connectivity in Northeast India continues to pose challenges. “Long transit times are a concern for exporters,” Paul said. To mitigate losses, exporters are increasingly using ventilated corrugated cartons, size-based grading, protective inner liners and careful stacking. Coordination with cold-chain service providers has also improved transport planning and shelf-life management compared to traditional loose packing.
Looking ahead, exporters and farmers are collaborating on trials of longer-shelf-life varieties and export-oriented farming practices. “Tripura has the potential to become a reliable source of quality oranges,” Paul said. “With improved infrastructure, targeted investments and the right farming strategies, the region’s citrus sector can scale up for national and international markets.”