India's Premium Cherries From Jammu And Kashmir Head To Saudi, UAE
Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir – In a significant boost to India’s horticultural exports, the first commercial consignment of premium cherries from Jammu and Kashmir is now on its way to Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. This move expected to open up a lucrative new market for Kashmiri cherry growers, who are set to receive a better price for their produce.
The development was met with enthusiasm by government officials and farmers alike. Union Minister for Industry and Commerce, Piyush Goyal, took to social media to express his optimism. “So much to CHEER!,” he posted. “The first commercial consignment of premium cherries from Jammu and Kashmir heads to Saudi Arabia and the UAE. A huge market opens up for our cherry farmers, who will now get a better price for their produce.”
This export initiative, reportedly, is the culmination of sustained efforts by the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) to connect farmers in the union territory with international markets. Jammu and Kashmir, which produces over 95% of India’s commercial cherry varieties, is renowned for its high-quality produce. The ‘Mishri’ variety of cherry, in particular, is noted for its sweet taste and nutritional value.
The export of these perishable fruits has been made possible through advancements in logistical support, including the establishment of robust cold chains and improved transportation links. Notably, the recently inaugurated Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) is set to play a crucial role in facilitating faster and more cost-effective transport of produce from the valley to key ports for onward shipment.
This strategic move into the Gulf market is expected to provide a significant economic uplift for the cherry farmers of Jammu and Kashmir. By accessing international markets directly, they can command better prices and reduce their reliance on domestic markets alone.
The successful export of cherries is also seen as a stepping stone for other temperate fruits from the region, such as plums, pears, apricots, and apples, to find their way to international consumers. The involvement of major retail players in the Middle East, such as the Lulu Group, further signals a strong and sustained demand for premium Indian produce.
