The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), under the Ministry of Commerce & Industry, has facilitated the first export shipment of premium Areko Cherries (High-Density European Sweet Cherries) and Scentrose Plums from the Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir to Abu Dhabi and Dubai in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
The inaugural consignment, comprising one metric tonne of premium stone fruits sourced from farmers in Shopian and Pulwama districts, marks a significant milestone in promoting Jammu & Kashmir’s high-value horticultural produce in international markets. The shipment also reflects the rising global demand for premium Indian fruits.
The export was virtually flagged off by APEDA Chairman Abhishek Dev in the presence of APEDA officials, representatives from the Department of Horticulture, Government of Jammu & Kashmir, exporters, international buyers and other stakeholders from the horticulture sector. The event highlighted the coordinated efforts of government agencies, exporters and growers to expand overseas market access for the region’s premium produce.
Speaking on the occasion, Abhishek Dev said Jammu & Kashmir has emerged as a key centre for premium horticultural products with strong export potential. He noted that APEDA remains committed to helping farmers access global markets through export promotion, quality enhancement and buyer outreach initiatives. According to him, the export of Areko Cherries and Scentrose Plums to the UAE demonstrates increasing international demand for India’s premium fruits while opening new income opportunities for growers through better price realisation.
The export initiative has already delivered significant financial benefits to participating farmers. Growers linked to the export supply chain realised nearly 60 per cent higher returns for cherries and around 120 per cent higher returns for plums compared with prevailing domestic market prices, underscoring the value of export-led market access.
The successful shipment is expected to create additional export opportunities for fruit growers in Shopian and Pulwama, encourage the adoption of export-oriented cultivation practices and strengthen the global presence of Jammu & Kashmir’s premium stone fruits.
APEDA continues to support exports of high-quality agricultural produce through market linkage programmes, quality assurance, buyer outreach and export facilitation. The latest shipment represents another step towards expanding India’s fresh fruit exports, enhancing farmers’ incomes and reinforcing the country’s position in international horticultural markets.