Punjab explores further opportunities for litchi export to UK

Following the successful maiden export of Punjab's litchi to England, United Kingdom Deputy High Commissioner Caroline Rowett today called upon Punjab Horticulture Minister Chetan Singh Jouramajra to discuss strategies for future litchi consignments and sharing and promoting agro-allied technologies.

The high-level meeting focused on expanding Punjab's agricultural export potential and fostering international collaborations. Chetan Singh Jouramajra emphasized Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann's vision of positioning Punjab's products on the global map, citing the recent litchi shipment as a prime example of the government's initiative to explore new markets for the state's produce.

Discussions also included potential collaborations in solar energy, artificial intelligence, and drone mapping. Advancements in precision agriculture, opportunities in agribusiness ventures, exploration of carbon and water credits, and development of a unified brand for Punjab's exports were covered extensively. 

Rowett expressed keen interest in the litchi export program and assured the development of a roadmap for future collaborations between Punjab and the United Kingdom. Horticulture Minister Chetan Singh Jouramajra informed that the next significant shipment of litchi from the state would be exported to England soon.

The exported litchis, sourced from the sub-mountainous districts of Pathankot, Gurdaspur, and Hoshiarpur, are renowned for their deep red color and superior sweetness due to the region's favourable climate. Punjab's litchi cultivation spans 3,250 hectares, yielding approximately 13,000 metric tons annually, positioning the state as a potential major player in the global litchi market.