Delhi, 19 April (H.S.): In a significant achievement for India’s Fresh Fruits exports, the first commercial sea shipment of the renowned Indian Bhagwa Pomegranate has successfully reached New York. This momentous delivery signals a growing international demand for high-quality Indian Pomegranates, presenting an opportunity for them to become a preferred option in the U.S. market. Traditionally reliant on air freight, the Pomegranate season has transitioned to more cost-effective sea freight methods.
Following the USA’s market access approval for Indian Pomegranates in 2023, the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) partnered with various agencies to conduct a trial shipment. Successful trials demonstrated the ability to extend shelf life to 60 days.
The inaugural sea shipment comprised 4,620 boxes (approximately 14 tons) and arrived on the U.S. East Coast within five weeks, receiving glowing reviews for its quality. This initiative reflects a proactive approach in overcoming logistical challenges in agricultural exports.
Abhishek Dev, Chairman of APEDA, highlighted the Indian government’s commitment to promoting fresh fruit exports, particularly mangoes and pomegranates, to the USA. With the help of pre-clearance funding, Indian farmers can benefit from premium markets, with mango exports reaching approximately 3,500 tons annually.
The latest shipment of pomegranates by Mumbai’s Kay Bee Exports, sourced directly from Indian farms, aims to ensure that local farmers gain from these exports. Mr. Kaushal Khakhar, CEO of Kay Bee Exports, expressed gratitude to APEDA for securing market access and establishing export protocols. A representative from the Indian export consortium noted the successful reception of Indian pomegranates, suggesting that with consistent quality, they can satisfy American consumers.
The industry remains optimistic about expanding U.S. market share and is seeking APEDA’s continued support for promotional campaigns to highlight the quality and versatility of Indian pomegranates in the upcoming year.
India ranks as the second-largest producer of horticulture crops, with significant pomegranate cultivation in states like Maharashtra, Gujarat, Karnataka, Rajasthan, and Andhra Pradesh. To enhance exports and address supply chain challenges, the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) has formed Export Promotion Forums (EPF) for pomegranates, involving representatives from various government departments and leading exporters. In the financial year 2023-24, India exported 72,011 metric tons of pomegranates valued at USD 69.08 million, marking a 21% growth in exports compared to the previous period.
Key markets include the UAE, Bangladesh, Nepal, and the USA. Indian pomegranates, especially the Bhagwa variety, are praised for their flavor, color, and nutritional content. The Indian government is also developing sea protocols to preserve the quality of these perishable items during long-distance shipments, thus enhancing their global market presence and supporting local farmers with sustainable export opportunities.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar
