Blitz Bureau
MEGHALAYA exported one metric tonne of Khasi Mandarin oranges to Dubai recently. The state Government’s Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare exported the season’s first consignment of Khasi Mandarin, which was transported via Air India Cargo from Guwahati Customs to Dubai on November 18.
The Khasi Mandarin oranges obtained the Geographical Identification (GI) tag in 2014. An official said that the initiative represents a crucial step towards integrating Meghalaya’s farmers with global markets while addressing longstanding logistical and economic challenges.
In collaboration with key partners like Lulu Group International, Mother Dairy Fruits and Vegetables Pvt Ltd, and the National Cooperative for Organic Limited (NCOL), the state is connecting the farmers to global markets, the official pointed out.
Export activities began in 2022 with a trial shipment of 5 MT of Khasi Mandarin and Pineapples to the Middle East, supported by the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) under the Union Ministry of Commerce and Industry.
According to the official, a detailed analysis of challenges was conducted, leading to corrective measures that enabled the export of 20 MT of Khasi Mandarin and pineapple last year.
This year’s consignment marks a breakthrough, as the state Government leverages Guwahati Customs and Air India Cargo to reduce transportation costs and improve transit times, he said.
The official said that the department is working closely with cargo providers to further lower logistics expenses, ensuring better remuneration for farmers.
