Premium Areko cherries and Scentrose plums from Jammu and Kashmir were exported to Singapore for the first time on Wednesday, marking a significant step in expanding global market access for the region’s high-value horticultural produce.
The first export consignment, sourced from orchards in Shopian and Pulwama districts, was facilitated by the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) in collaboration with M/s Osum Food Solutions LLP and M/s Fruit Master Agro Fresh Private Limited. APEDA flagged off the shipment at a ceremony held on Wednesday.
Officials said the initiative is expected to strengthen India’s presence in premium Southeast Asian markets while providing better price realisation for fruit growers in Jammu and Kashmir.
The exported fruits were cultivated using scientific orchard management practices and processed through grading, sorting, packing and cold-chain handling in compliance with international food safety and phytosanitary standards to maintain quality during transit.
APEDA said the export reflects its continued efforts to promote premium horticultural produce from Jammu and Kashmir through quality enhancement, improved logistics and market development. It added that direct access to international markets would encourage growers to adopt export-oriented cultivation and better post-harvest management practices, contributing to higher farm incomes.
