India's fruit and vegetable exports increased by 47.3% in volume from 2019-20 to 2023-24, as stated by the Ministry of Commerce & Industry. This growth is linked to financial assistance from the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), under the Department of Commerce.
The ministry noted, "APEDA's financial assistance schemes boost 47.3 per cent surge in India's fruit and vegetable exports." APEDA supports exporters via the Agriculture and Processed Foods Export Promotion Scheme, offering financial aid for export facilities like packhouses, pre-cooling units, cold storage, and treatment facilities. These infrastructures ensure compliance with international quality standards.
Support extends to enhancing product quality through laboratory equipment, quality management systems, and data-tracking devices. Testing for water, soil, and pesticide residues aligns with importing countries' stringent requirements.
APEDA further aids exporters by facilitating participation in international trade fairs, organizing buyer-seller meets, and improving packaging standards, thus enhancing global competitiveness. In 2023-24, Indian fruits and vegetables reached 123 countries, entering 17 new markets over three years, including Brazil, Georgia, and Ghana.
The Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare (MoA&FW) and APEDA have pinpointed key products and target countries for trade negotiations to boost market access. Efforts are also underway to develop sea transport protocols to reduce logistics costs and increase export volumes. The ministry stated, "Development of Sea protocols for horticulture products to reduce logistic expenses and to enable larger volume of exports."
Regular discussions with importing countries, aided by Indian diplomatic missions, focus on facility registration and compliance with phytosanitary regulations, ensuring safety and quality standards. APEDA's initiatives continue to strengthen India's agricultural exports.
Source: ANI