Last Updated on July 18, 2026 11:57 pm by BIZNAMA NEWS
BIZ DESK /
New Delhi: In a move aimed at expanding India’s horticultural exports, the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) has facilitated the first export consignment of premium Areko cherries and Scentrose plums from Jammu & Kashmir to Singapore, marking the region’s entry into another high-value international market.
The shipment, sourced from growers in Shopian and Pulwama, follows the successful export of fresh cherries and plums to Abu Dhabi and Dubai, further strengthening the global presence of Kashmir’s premium temperate fruits.
The inaugural consignment was flagged off on July 16 in collaboration with Osum Food Solutions LLP and Fruit Master Agro Fresh Pvt. Ltd. APEDA said the fruits were scientifically harvested, graded, packed and transported through a temperature-controlled supply chain in compliance with international food safety and phytosanitary standards to preserve freshness during transit.
The export initiative is expected to significantly improve farm incomes, with growers likely to earn over 50% higher returns compared with conventional domestic marketing channels. It is also expected to encourage export-oriented cultivation, adoption of modern farming techniques and improved post-harvest management while reducing wastage across the value chain.
APEDA said the latest shipment reflects its strategy of diversifying export destinations for Indian horticultural produce and strengthening logistics to connect farmers with premium overseas markets. The initiative is expected to enhance the global competitiveness of Jammu & Kashmir’s fruit sector and create sustainable income opportunities for growers by positioning the region as a reliable supplier of high-quality fresh temperate fruits.
Jammu & Kashmir, known for its favourable agro-climatic conditions, produces premium-quality temperate fruits with excellent taste, texture and shelf life. The export consignment was scientifically harvested, graded, packed and transported through an efficient cold chain in compliance with international food safety and phytosanitary standards to ensure freshness and quality upon arrival in Singapore.
The initiative is expected to enable growers to realise over 50 per cent higher returns compared to conventional marketing channels. It is also expected to promote export-oriented production, adoption of scientific cultivation practices and improved post-harvest management, while reducing post-harvest losses, enhancing value realisation and generating sustainable livelihood opportunities for fruit-growing communities across Jammu & Kashmir.
The export reflects APEDA’s continued efforts to strengthen India’s horticultural exports through market diversification, export facilitation and improved logistics. By connecting growers with premium international markets, the initiative is expected to enhance farmers’ incomes and further position Jammu & Kashmir as a reliable source of high-value fresh temperate fruits in global markets.