In the financial year 2023-24, India exported 72,011 metric tons of pomegranates, valued at USD 69.08 million, to diverse markets including the United Arab Emirates, Bangladesh, Nepal, Netherlands, Saudi Arabia, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Bahrain, and Oman.
The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) marked a significant milestone on August 31, 2024, by facilitating the first-ever shipment of Indian pomegranates from Mumbai to Melbourne, Australia. This achievement underscores India’s growing presence in global agricultural markets and offers a substantial economic boost to Indian farmers.
The inaugural consignment, consisting of 1.1 metric tons of pomegranates, was successfully cleared upon arrival in Melbourne. It was prominently displayed at Fine Food Australia 2024, hosted at the APEDA India pavilion. This showcase highlighted the global appeal and quality of Indian pomegranates.
India’s entry into the Australian market for pomegranates was made possible following Australia’s grant of market access in 2020. This strategic development was bolstered by a work plan and Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) established in February 2024, designed to streamline the export process.
India, recognized as the world’s second-largest producer of horticulture crops, has substantial pomegranate production in states such as Maharashtra, Gujarat, Karnataka, Rajasthan, and Andhra Pradesh. To further support the industry, APEDA has set up Export Promotion Forums (EPFs) focused on pomegranates. These forums bring together representatives from various sectors, including the department of commerce, department of agriculture, state governments, national referral laboratories, and leading exporters, to address supply chain challenges and boost exports.
In the financial year 2023-24, India exported 72,011 metric tons of pomegranates, valued at USD 69.08 million, to diverse markets including the United Arab Emirates, Bangladesh, Nepal, Netherlands, Saudi Arabia, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Bahrain, and Oman.
GI tagged agro-products
APEDA’s dedication to enhancing the export of perishable fresh fruits and vegetables is evident in its development of sea protocols to preserve product quality during long-distance shipments.
The consignment to Australia was sent by M/s. Kay Bee Exports, a prominent Mumbai-based exporter of fruits and vegetables, and a registered member of APEDA. The pomegranates, sourced directly from Kay Bee’s partner farms, were meticulously packed at an Australia-approved packhouse in Ahmednagar. This careful handling ensured that the fruit met stringent international quality standards. The shipment, consisting of 336 boxes each weighing 3.5 kg, underwent necessary irradiation treatment at the MSAMB IFC in Vashi, Navi Mumbai, in accordance with the established work plan.
A source in APEDA said, “This successful consignment to Melbourne not only represents a significant step forward for Indian pomegranate exports but also reflects the ongoing efforts to enhance India’s presence in the global agricultural market.”
“This initiative not only strengthens India’s position in international markets but also supports local farmers by creating sustainable export opportunities,” he said.
He said that as a statutory body under India’s ministry of commerce and industry, APEDA is committed to promoting Indian agro and processed food exports. “Its efforts include organizing B2B exhibitions abroad, exploring new market opportunities, and collaborating with Indian embassies to promote natural, organic, and geographical indication (GI) tagged agro-products.”
Image: Wikimedia
