APEDA Facilitates First Export of Premium Kashmir Cherries, Plums to Singapore

Srinagar: In a major boost to Jammu and Kashmir’s horticulture exports, 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, Pulwama, on Thursday facilitated the first export shipment of premium Areko cherries and Scentrose plums from Shopian and Pulwama districts to Singapore.
To mark the occasion, APEDA organised a flag-off ceremony for the inaugural consignment, describing the initiative as a significant step towards expanding global market access for premium horticultural produce from Jammu and Kashmir.
Officials said the export represents an important milestone in promoting the Valley’s premium temperate fruits in international markets and reflects the collaborative efforts of APEDA, exporters, growers and other stakeholders in strengthening the region’s horticultural export ecosystem.
The initiative is expected to enhance India’s presence in high-value overseas markets while creating better export opportunities and improved price realisation for fruit growers in the Union Territory. Singapore, with its growing demand for premium imported fruits, offers significant potential for expanding the global footprint of Kashmir’s renowned cherries and plums.
The exported fruits were cultivated using scientific orchard management practices and harvested at optimum maturity to ensure superior taste, colour, firmness and shelf life. Before shipment, the produce underwent rigorous grading, sorting, packing and cold-chain handling in accordance with international food safety and phytosanitary standards to preserve freshness and quality during transit.
APEDA said the successful export highlights its continued efforts to strengthen India’s horticultural export ecosystem through quality enhancement, market development, capacity building and improved logistics. The authority added that providing growers direct access to premium international markets would encourage export-oriented production, adoption of scientific cultivation methods and better post-harvest management practices.
The initiative is also expected to improve farmers’ incomes and further promote the sustainable growth of Jammu and Kashmir’s horticulture sector. PIB