From Kashmir’s Lush Orchards to UAE Tables: How Premium Cherries and Plums Carved a Niche in Global Market
The lush orchards of Jammu and Kashmir have achieved another milestone. The first consignment of premium 'Areko cherries' and 'Santa Rosa plums' has been dispatched from the region to Abu Dhabi and Dubai, opening up new international opportunities for local fruit growers.
Facilitated by the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, this inaugural shipment comprised one metric tonne of high-quality stone fruits sourced from farmers in the Shopian and Pulwama districts.
This move marks a significant step towards establishing Jammu and Kashmir as a key exporter of premium horticultural produce while catering to the growing global demand for India's finest fruits.
The virtual flag-off ceremony was presided over by APEDA Chairman Abhishek Dev. The event was attended by officials from APEDA and the Jammu and Kashmir Department of Horticulture, along with exporters, international buyers, and other key stakeholders.
The program highlighted the collaborative efforts of government agencies, farmers, and exporters that are enabling the region's premium produce to reach international markets.
A major hub for premium horticultural products
Congratulating the farmers and exporters, APEDA Chairman Abhishek Dev said, "Jammu and Kashmir has emerged as a major hub for premium horticultural products with immense export potential. APEDA is committed to facilitating market access for farmers through export-promotion initiatives, quality enhancement, and by connecting them with global buyers. The export of Areko cherries and Santa Rosa plums to the UAE reflects the rising international demand for India's premium fruits. This will create new opportunities for growers and boost their incomes through better price realization."
Growers are already reaping tangible benefits
Growers are already reaping tangible benefits from this export initiative. Farmers integrated into the export supply chain earned approximately 60 percent more for cherries and 120 percent more for plums compared to prevailing domestic market prices. This significant price advantage demonstrates how access to premium international markets can substantially boost farmers' incomes.
More farmers are likely to adopt export-oriented farming practice
Beyond immediate economic gains, this successful consignment is expected to encourage more farmers in Shopian and Pulwama to adopt export-oriented farming practices, improve quality standards, and expand the global reach of Jammu & Kashmir's premium stone fruits. In this context, the export of 'Areko' cherries and 'Sentarosa' plums to the UAE marks another significant milestone for India. This initiative not only fosters prosperity for farmers but also showcases the superior quality of fruits grown in the Himalayan region to the world.