Blitz Bureau
New Delhi: India’s exports of fruits and vegetables have seen impressive growth, fueled by strategic initiatives and financial support from the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA). The rise in exports underscores India’s expanding role in global agricultural markets, backed by sustained efforts to boost market access and improve infrastructure.
In the fiscal year 2023-24, India’s fresh fruit exports reached approximately $1.14 billion, while processed fruits and juices contributed over $970 million. This upward trajectory has been consistent since 2020. Similarly, the export of fresh vegetables generated around $891 million, with processed vegetables making substantial contributions as well.
APEDA’s Financial Assistance Scheme (FAS) has been pivotal in driving this growth. The scheme supports exporters in three critical areas: developing export infrastructure, quality enhancement, and market development. Under the infrastructure component, APEDA offers up to 40% financial assistance, capped at ₹200 lakhs, for building facilities like sorting and grading centers, pre-cooling units, and insulated or refrigerated transport systems.
India’s fresh produce now reaches 123 countries, a testament to APEDA’s focused efforts, including participation in international trade fairs and buyer-seller meetings. Over the past three years, India has secured access to 17 new markets, including Brazil, Georgia, Uganda, Papua New Guinea, Czech Republic, and Ghana.
Major fruit- and vegetable-producing states like Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, West Bengal, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Bihar, Tamil Nadu, Odisha, and Karnataka have played a crucial role in meeting the growing global demand.
APEDA’s success is also due to close collaboration with the Department of Commerce and the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare. Together, they have prioritized market access negotiations, resulting in expanded opportunities for key products. For instance, Indian potatoes and onions are now exported to Serbia, baby corn and bananas to Canada, and pomegranate arils to countries like Australia, the USA, and New Zealand. Whole pomegranates have even gained market access in Australia, thanks to irradiation treatment.
With continued support from the government and targeted initiatives by APEDA, India is well-positioned to further boost its agricultural exports. These efforts not only strengthen India’s global presence but also create opportunities for farmers and exporters, promoting long-term growth in the agricultural sector.
