India has successfully conducted its first commercial trial shipment of pomegranates to the US via sea, according to the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA). The shipment, which consisted of 4,200 boxes weighing 12.6 tonnes, was sent by INI Farms from the IFC facility in Vashi (Navi Mumbai) on February 28. INI Farms has collaborated with farmers in Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Rajasthan to establish a value chain for pomegranates. The fruit was sourced from Anarnet registered farmers from Sangola in Maharashtra. The farmers were able to receive a premium of 20% compared to other export markets and 35% compared to the domestic market. India is one of the largest producers of pomegranates in the world.
About APEDA
Last year, APEDA completed an air shipment of pomegranates with irradiation treatment and a static trial in collaboration with ICAR-NRC Pomegranate Solapur as a technical partner. Based on the positive outcome of the static trial, APEDA hoped for a successful sign-off for this consignment via sea, thereby opening trade relations to potential markets for Indian pomegranates.
A significant moment in India’s agricultural exports, as Indian pomegranates set sail for the US shores travelling over 20,000+ kms. This is a collaborative effort of #APEDA, MSAMB, @Kimaye_INI, US Consulate, RPQS - MoA&FW, NRC (#Solapur). pic.twitter.com/kSOFc43PcL— APEDA (@APEDADOC) February 28, 2024
In 2022-23, APEDA facilitated Pomegranate exports worth $58.36 million to the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Bangladesh, Nepal, the Netherlands, Saudi Arabia, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Bahrain, and Oman.
APEDA has been working actively to address the supply chain bottlenecks that have been affecting pomegranate exports. The establishment of the Pomegranate Export Promotion Forums (EPF) is a significant boost for the industry. The EPF comprises representatives from the Department of Commerce, the Department of Agriculture, state governments, national referral laboratories, and the top ten exporters of pomegranate. APEDA's initiative for sea consignment will enhance trust between Indian exporters and foreign importers, particularly in terms of quality assurance.
India stands as one of the globe's major contributors to pomegranate production.
India, known for its large-scale pomegranate production, is also striving to become a leading exporter of this fruit worldwide. India holds a prominent position in the European, Middle Eastern, and Asian markets. Pomegranate holds great significance in India's agricultural sector, owing to its rich history and nutritional value, which contributes to its popularity. India takes pride in producing some of the finest pomegranate varieties, characterized by their soft, juicy seeds, low acidity, and vibrant colour.
The Bhagwa Pomegranate, in particular, is renowned as one of the top varieties globally. In the past decade, India has witnessed a remarkable increase in both the cultivation area and production of pomegranates, resulting in a surge in exports.
India enjoys a significant advantage in the pomegranate market, as it can supply this fruit all year round, thanks to skilled farmers who produce high-quality products. In recent years, pomegranate production has experienced a healthy growth rate of 20-25%. Maharashtra, Gujarat, Karnataka, Rajasthan, and Andhra Pradesh are the major pomegranate-producing states in India, with Maharashtra alone accounting for more than half of the total production.
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