First consignment of Indian Pomegranates from Mumbai to Melbourne

The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) facilitated the first consignment of Indian pomegranates from Mumbai to Melbourne, Australia, recently. This successful export not only underscores India's capabilities in meeting global quality standards but also provides a significant boost to Indian farmers by opening up new revenue streams. 

The consignment, which was cleared in Melbourne, was prominently displayed at Fine Food Australia 2024 within the APEDA India pavilion, further highlighting the global appeal of Indian pomegranates. This development is a result of Australia's decision to grant market access to Indian pomegranates in 2020 and the signing of a work plan and Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) in February 2024, which streamlined the export process.

India, the second-largest producer of horticulture crops, sees substantial pomegranate production in Maharashtra, Gujarat, Karnataka, Rajasthan, and Andhra Pradesh. To support this sector, APEDA has established Export Promotion Forums (EPF) specifically for pomegranates. These forums, comprising representatives from the Department of Commerce, Department of Agriculture, state governments, national referral laboratories, and leading exporters, aim to boost exports and address supply chain challenges.

In the financial year 2023-24, India exported 72,011 metric tons of pomegranates valued at USD 69.08 million to markets including the UAE, Bangladesh, Nepal, Netherlands, Saudi Arabia, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Bahrain, and Oman. APEDA’s dedication to promoting the export of fresh fruits and vegetables is demonstrated through their development of sea protocols that preserve product quality during long-distance transport.

The recent consignment was sent by M/s. Kay Bee Exports, a prominent Mumbai-based fruit and vegetable exporter registered with APEDA. The pomegranates were sourced directly from Kay Bee Exports' partner farms and packed at their Australia-approved packhouse in Ahmednagar, ensuring compliance with international quality standards. Weighing 1.1 metric tons and comprising 336 boxes, the consignment underwent irradiation treatment at the MSAMB IFC in Vashi, Navi Mumbai, as per the agreed protocol.

APEDA, a Statutory Body under the Ministry of Commerce & Industry, Government of India, remains committed to enhancing Indian agro and processed food exports. Their initiatives include organizing B2B exhibitions, exploring new markets, and collaborating with Indian Embassies to promote natural, organic, and Geographical Indication (GI) tagged agro-products.