APEDA facilitates first consignment of Indian Pomegranates from Mumbai to Melbourne

The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) facilitated the inaugural consignment of Indian pomegranates from Mumbai to Melbourne, Australia, on August 31, 2024. This milestone not only underscores India's adherence to global quality standards but also significantly boosts Indian farmers by creating new revenue opportunities. The consignment was successfully cleared in Melbourne and showcased at Fine Food Australia 2024 at the APEDA India pavilion, further highlighting the international appeal of Indian pomegranates. Australia granted market access to Indian pomegranates in 2020, paving the way for this export. A work plan and Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) for pomegranate exports to Australia were formalized in February 2024, streamlining the process.

India, the second-largest producer of horticulture crops, grows pomegranates mainly in Maharashtra, Gujarat, Karnataka, Rajasthan, and Andhra Pradesh. In FY24, India exported 72,011 metric tons of pomegranates worth US$ 69.08 million to various markets, including the UAE, Bangladesh, and the Netherlands. APEDA's initiatives to support fresh fruit and vegetable exports include developing sea protocols to maintain product quality and establishing Export Promotion Forums (EPF) to address supply chain challenges. The consignment, sent by M/s. Kay Bee Exports, which consisted of 336 boxes weighing 1.1 metric tons, were packed at an Australia-approved facility in Ahmednagar and treated at MSAMB IFC in Vashi. APEDA, a Statutory Body under the Ministry of Commerce & Industry, Government of India, promotes Indian agro and processed food exports through B2B exhibitions, market exploration, and collaborations with Indian Embassies.

Disclaimer: This information has been collected through secondary research and IBEF is not responsible for any errors in the same.