J&K's premium cherries, plums enter Singapore market with first export shipment
New Delhi, July 18
Jammu & Kashmir's premium Areko cherries and Scentrose plums have entered the Singapore market for the first time, marking another step in expanding the global reach of the region's horticultural produce after successful exports to the United Arab Emirates, as per a release by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.
The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) facilitated the first export shipment of premium Areko cherries (High-Density European Sweet Cherries) and Scentrose plums from Shopian and Pulwama to Singapore.
According to the Commerce Ministry, the milestone follows the successful export of fresh cherries and plums from the region to Abu Dhabi and Dubai, further expanding the global footprint of Kashmir's premium temperate fruits.
APEDA organised a flag-off ceremony for the first export shipment to Singapore on Thursday in collaboration with Osum Food Solutions LLP and Fruit Master Agro Fresh Private Limited, Pulwama.
The ministry said the export consignment was scientifically harvested, graded, packed and transported through an efficient cold chain in compliance with international food safety and phytosanitary standards to ensure freshness and quality upon arrival in Singapore.
The initiative is expected to enable growers to realise "over 50 per cent higher returns compared to conventional marketing channels." It is also expected to encourage export-oriented production, adoption of scientific cultivation practices and improved post-harvest management, while reducing post-harvest losses, enhancing value realisation and generating sustainable livelihood opportunities for fruit-growing communities across Jammu & Kashmir.
The ministry said the export reflects APEDA's continued efforts to strengthen India's horticultural exports through market diversification, export facilitation and improved logistics.
By connecting growers with premium international markets, the initiative is expected to enhance farmers' incomes and further position Jammu & Kashmir as a reliable source of high-value fresh temperate fruits in global markets.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Impressive to see Indian horticulture expanding into premium markets like Singapore. The 50% higher return for growers is a game-changer. With the right supply chain, Kashmir could become a major exporter of temperate fruits. Kudos to APEDA for facilitating this.
Great step, but let's not forget the farmers on the ground. Many still struggle with fair prices in local markets. If this export success translates into better income for small growers in Shopian and Pulwama, then it's truly worth celebrating. Let's hope the benefits trickle down. 🍒
Being from Kashmir, this makes me so proud! Our cherries and plums are the best in the world—sweet, juicy, and grown with love. 🇮🇳 Hope we see more such export milestones for walnuts and saffron too. Jai Hind!
While this is positive, I hope the government also focuses on domestic infrastructure. If farmers can get better returns locally through improved mandis and cold storage, it would reduce dependence on exports. Still, good to see Indian produce reaching Singapore. Balanced approach needed.
Excellent! Kashmir's temperate fruits are among the best. The scientific harvesting and cold chain compliance are crucial for maintaining quality. If we can replicate this for other crops and regions, India's agricultural exports will boom. Proud moment for Indian horticulture! 🙌
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.