India Launches Maiden Sea Shipment of Sangola Pomegranates to US with APEDA’s Support

GG News Bureau
Vashi, 2nd March. 
India has initiated its inaugural commercial trial shipment of Pomegranates to the United States via sea, facilitated by the Agricultural Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA). The event, organized by InI Farms from IFC facility, MSAMB, Vashi (Navi Mumbai) on February 28, 2024, marked a significant milestone in India’s agricultural exports.

Rajesh Aggarwal, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Commerce & Industry, and Abhishek Dev, Chairman, APEDA, ceremoniously flagged off the maiden Pomegranate shipment, comprising 4200 boxes (12.6 tons).

The event witnessed the presence of esteemed dignitaries from various governmental and agricultural bodies, including the Maharashtra State Agricultural Marketing Board (MSAMB), Regional Plant Quarantine Station (RPQS- MoA&FW), State Agriculture Department (Govt of Maharashtra), NRC Pomegranate, US Consulate, and InI Farms.

Building upon the success of last year’s air shipment of Pomegranates, APEDA collaborated with InI Farms and ICAR-NRC Pomegranate Solapur to conduct a static sea trial, paving the way for broader trade relations and opening new markets for Indian Pomegranates. India, a leading global producer of Pomegranates, aspires to emerge as one of the top exporters in the world, targeting markets in the EU, Middle East, and Asia.

The initiative underscores India’s commitment to enhancing agricultural exports and improving the livelihoods of farmers. Through strategic partnerships and technological advancements, InI Farms has played a pivotal role in elevating the quality and shelf life of Pomegranates, ensuring compliance with international standards.

Sourced from Anarnet registered farmers in Sangola, Maharashtra, the Pomegranates fetched premium prices for farmers, highlighting the economic benefits of agricultural exports. With its rich history, nutritional value, and superior quality produce, Pomegranates continue to enjoy significant demand globally.

India’s Pomegranate sector has witnessed remarkable growth in recent years, with Maharashtra, Gujarat, Karnataka, Rajasthan, and Andhra Pradesh emerging as major production hubs. APEDA’s efforts have significantly contributed to boosting Pomegranate exports, with shipments worth $58.36 Million in 2022-23 to various destinations.

APEDA’s proactive measures, including the establishment of Export Promotion Forums (EPF) for Pomegranate, aim to address supply chain challenges and foster greater collaboration among stakeholders. The successful sea consignment underscores India’s commitment to quality assurance and strengthens trust between exporters and importers, heralding a new era of agricultural exports.

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