Andhra Pradesh exported only about 246 tons of bananas in 2016-17. Now, exports are set to cross the 50,000-ton mark this year. This quantum jump translates to a 200-fold increase in banana exports in a span of six years. Middle East countries are the major importers of G9 (Grand Nain) banana variety from Payalaseema region. Karpura and Chakkarakeli varieties are grown in coastal Andhra Pradesh.
Anantapur, Kadapa, Proddatur, Tadipatri, and Nandyal regions have been predominantly contributing to these exports. Enjoying a wide reputation in the Middle East countries like Saudi Arabia, UAE, Egypt, Bahrain, etc., the horticulture department is now trying to obtain GAP (good agricultural practices) certification to foray into the European market as far as banana exports are concerned.
Source: timesofindia.indiatimes.com