New Delhi, July 18: The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) has facilitated the first export of premium Areko cherries and Scentrose plums from Jammu and Kashmir to Singapore, marking another milestone in expanding the global market for the Union Territory’s high-value temperate fruits.
The first export consignment, comprising High-Density European Sweet Areko Cherries and Scentrose Plums sourced from the orchards of Shopian and Pulwama districts, was flagged off on July 16 in collaboration with M/s Osum Food Solutions LLP and M/s Fruit Master Agro Fresh Private Limited, Pulwama.
The development comes after the successful export of fresh cherries and plums from Jammu and Kashmir to Abu Dhabi and Dubai in the United Arab Emirates, further strengthening the international presence of Kashmir’s premium horticultural produce.
APEDA, functioning under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, said the export reflects its continued efforts to diversify international markets for Indian horticultural products while improving export facilitation and logistics.
The export consignment was scientifically harvested, graded, packed and transported through an efficient cold-chain network in compliance with international food safety and phytosanitary standards to ensure freshness and quality upon reaching Singapore.
Officials said the initiative is expected to help growers earn more than 50 per cent higher returns compared to conventional domestic marketing channels. It is also likely to encourage export-oriented cultivation, adoption of scientific farming practices and improved post-harvest management across the region.
Jammu and Kashmir’s favourable agro-climatic conditions make it one of India’s leading producers of premium temperate fruits known for their superior taste, texture and shelf life.
APEDA said the initiative would help reduce post-harvest losses, enhance value realisation and generate sustainable livelihood opportunities for fruit-growing communities while positioning Jammu and Kashmir as a reliable supplier of premium fresh fruits in global markets.
The authority added that connecting growers directly with high-value international markets forms part of its broader strategy to strengthen India’s horticultural exports and improve farmers’ incomes through market diversification.
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