Punjab, Pakistan, has recorded steady litchi production of about 71,490 tons in 2023–24, representing 12.39% of India's total output, according to state agriculture data. The crop is cultivated across 3,900 hectares in Pathankot, Gurdaspur, Nawanshahr, Hoshiarpur, and Ropar districts, with Pathankot accounting for 2,200 hectares. The government's crop diversification program has encouraged farmers to shift from the wheat-paddy cycle toward fruit cultivation.
Punjab's litchi exports began in 2024 with shipments to London, where 10 quintals fetched prices about five times higher than the domestic rate. In 2025, exports expanded to Qatar and Dubai, with 1.5 tons shipped and total orders reaching 600 quintals. The export value is expected to reach between US$360,000 and US$600,000.
To support growers, the state government has introduced subsidy programs, including a 50% subsidy on packing boxes and crates, assistance of up to US$600 per hectare for replacing polyhouse sheets, and about US$480 per hectare for drip irrigation systems. Around US$6 million has been allocated for cold chain infrastructure, while packhouses in Pathankot and Gurdaspur have lowered logistics costs for growers.
Training programs under the GlobalGAP framework have reached 5,000 farmers through Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs). With the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), the government is offering a freight subsidy of US$0.06–0.12 per kilogram on air cargo. A Geographical Indication (GI) tag is being pursued for Pathankot litchi to support traceability and branding.
According to state data, average farmer income from litchi cultivation in export-focused clusters has reached US$2,400–3,600 per hectare.
In comparison, Uttar Pradesh produces about 50,000 tons of litchi but exports less than 0.5 tons. Jharkhand produces around 65,500 tons, with minimal exports due to packaging and cold chain limitations. Assam's production is about 8,500 tons, with 0.1 ton exported, while Uttarakhand, known for the Dehradun variety, exports less than 0.05 tons. Andhra Pradesh produces around 1,000 tons with no exports reported.
Punjab's export infrastructure and technical assistance have positioned the state as one of India's leading litchi producers with established access to European and Gulf markets. Officials said that ongoing investment in cold storage, irrigation systems, and certification processes is expected to further strengthen the state's presence in the international litchi trade.
Source: Illustrated Daily News
