In a boost to India’s horticultural exports, the first consignment of rose-scented litchi from Pathankot, Punjab, was flagged off to Doha, Qatar. The one-metric-tonne consignment marks a major milestone for India’s agricultural export sector and was facilitated by the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) under the Ministry of Commerce & Industry, in collaboration with the Punjab Horticulture Department.
This milestone underscores India’s growing competitiveness in the high-value agri-export segment. Sourced from progressive farmer Prabhat Singh from Sujanpur and supported by the Department of Horticulture, Punjab, the premium litchis were packed and shipped under cold-chain protocols, highlighting the expanding role of logistics in fresh produce trade.
According to the National Horticulture Board, Punjab produced 71,490 metric tonnes of litchi in FY 2023–24, contributing over 12% to India’s total litchi output. During the same period, India exported 639.53 metric tonnes of litchi.
With India’s fruit and vegetable exports reaching USD 3.87 billion in FY 2024–25—a 5.67% increase over the previous year—products like litchi, cherries, and jamun are gaining growing acceptance in international markets, alongside traditional favourites like mangoes, bananas, and grapes.
The government’s continued efforts to support farmers, promote value-added agriculture, and expand global market access through APEDA are paving the way for India to emerge as a leading exporter of high-quality horticultural produce.
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