New Delhi: The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) has facilitated the first export shipment of premium Areko cherries and Scentrose plums from Jammu and Kashmir to Singapore, marking another milestone in the region’s horticulture exports.
According to an official statement, the consignment comprised Areko cherries sourced from Shopian and Scentrose plums from Pulwama. The export follows the successful shipment of fresh cherries and plums from Jammu and Kashmir to Abu Dhabi and Dubai in the United Arab Emirates.
APEDA, under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, organised a flag-off ceremony for the consignment on July 16 in collaboration with Osum Food Solutions LLP and Fruit Master Agro Fresh Private Limited, Pulwama.
The statement said the fruits were scientifically harvested, graded, packed and transported through a cold chain in compliance with international food safety and phytosanitary standards to ensure quality and freshness on arrival in Singapore.
APEDA said the initiative is expected to help growers realise more than 50 per cent higher returns compared to conventional marketing channels. It also aims to promote export-oriented production, scientific cultivation practices and improved post-harvest management while reducing post-harvest losses and creating sustainable livelihood opportunities for fruit growers.
The authority said the export reflects its efforts to diversify international markets for Indian horticultural produce, improve export logistics and strengthen Jammu and Kashmir’s position as a source of premium temperate fruits in global markets.
