New Delhi: In a boost to India's horticultural exports, the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, facilitated the flagoff of the first cargo of 1 metric tonne of rosescented litchi from Pathankot, Punjab, to Doha, Qatar, in collaboration with the Department of Horticulture, Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Government of Punjab, on June 23, 2025.
According to the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Pathankot also exported 0. 5 metric tonnes of litchi to Dubai, UAE, for a double export success that highlights India's potential in the global fresh fruit market.
This unique event recognizes the quality of India's horticultural produce and emphasizes the country's expanding agriexport potential. It provides enormous opportunities for farming communities by granting international market access to their fresh, high-value products.
APEDA coordinated the effort in collaboration with the Punjab Government's Department of Horticulture, the Lullu Group, and progressive farmer Prabhat Singh of Sujanpur, who provided the high-quality produce.
According to the National Horticulture Board, Punjab's litchi production in FY 2023-24 is anticipated to be 71,490 metric tonnes, accounting for 12. 39% of India's total litchi output.
During the same time, India exported 639. 53 metric tonnes of litchi. The total region under cultivation was 4,327 hectares, with an average yield of 16,523 kg per hectare.
The flagged-off consignment, which includes a reefer pallet of premium Pathankot litchis, marks a significant milestone for the region's producers.
The success of farmers such as Prabhat Singh highlights Pathankot's potential as an emerging center for premium litchi cultivation and exports, owing to its favorable agroclimatic conditions.
Notably, in FY 202425 (April-March), India's export of fruits and vegetables totaled USD 3. 87 billion, a 5. 67% increase over the previous year.
While mangoes, bananas, grapes, and oranges continue to dominate fruit exports, cherries, jamun, and litchis are increasingly finding a place in international markets.
These initiatives demonstrate the Government of India's dedication to diversifying the agriexport basket, empowering farmers, and improving the global competitiveness of Indian products.
With targeted interventions, APEDA continues to play an important role in providing market access for FPOs, FPCs, and agriexporters, strengthening India's status as a global leader in agricultural and processed food products.
