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

Jammu and Kashmir has expanded the global reach of its premium horticultural produce with the first export shipment of Areko cherries and Scentrose plums from Shopian and Pulwama to Singapore. The shipment was facilitated by the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, strengthening efforts to connect growers from the region with high-value international markets.

APEDA organised a flag-off ceremony for the consignment on July 16, 2026, in collaboration with Osum Food Solutions LLP and Fruit Master Agro Fresh Private Limited, Pulwama. The development follows the successful export of fresh cherries and plums from Jammu and Kashmir to Abu Dhabi and Dubai, opening another important market for the Union Territory’s temperate fruits.

The shipment included premium Areko cherries, a high-density European sweet cherry variety, along with Scentrose plums cultivated in the horticultural belts of Shopian and Pulwama. Jammu and Kashmir’s favourable agro-climatic conditions support the production of fruits known for their flavour, texture, appearance and storage quality, giving the region considerable potential in the international fresh-produce trade.

The fruits were harvested at the appropriate stage of maturity and underwent scientific grading, sorting and packaging before being transported through a controlled cold-chain system. The entire process was carried out in accordance with international food-safety and phytosanitary requirements to preserve freshness and ensure that the produce reached Singapore in suitable market condition.

Access to premium overseas markets is expected to provide growers with returns more than 50 per cent higher than those available through conventional marketing channels. Improved price realisation could encourage farmers to adopt export-oriented cultivation, modern orchard-management techniques and scientific post-harvest practices.

The initiative is also expected to help reduce losses that frequently occur after harvesting due to inadequate storage, handling and transportation. Strengthening cold-chain infrastructure, pack-house facilities and market linkages can improve the commercial value of the produce while creating additional employment and livelihood opportunities across fruit-growing communities.

APEDA has been working to diversify India’s agricultural export destinations and improve the international competitiveness of regional horticultural products. Its support includes coordination with exporters, growers and logistics providers, along with assistance in meeting quality, traceability, packaging and phytosanitary standards required by importing countries.

The Singapore shipment represents an important step in positioning Jammu and Kashmir as a dependable supplier of premium cherries, plums and other temperate fruits. Continued market development and export facilitation could help the region build a strong presence in Asia’s premium fruit markets while delivering higher and more stable incomes to local farmers.

Siource: PIB