The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), operating under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, has successfully facilitated the export of bananas from India to Russia via sea route. This initiative marks a significant milestone in India's agricultural export sector, showcasing the country's potential in catering to global markets. On February 17, 2024, a consignment of 20 metric tons (1540 boxes) of bananas was dispatched from Maharashtra, India, to Russia.
The flag-off ceremony was overseen by Chairman of APEDA, Abhishek Dev, in collaboration with the Central Institute of Sub-tropical Horticulture (CISH). Notably, the shipment employed a novel sea protocol developed by CISH to maintain the fruit's quality during transit.
Encouraging Innovation in Export Practices
Chairman APEDA emphasized the importance of adopting innovative shipping methods to explore new markets and products. He urged exporters to leverage APEDA's support and financial assistance schemes, particularly highlighting the agency's focus on empowering women entrepreneurs. Commending the efforts of CISH in developing the sea protocols, he emphasized the collaborative spirit driving India's agricultural export initiatives.
Rising Demand for Indian Bananas in Russia
Russia has recently expressed a keen interest in procuring tropical fruits from India, with bananas emerging as a significant import commodity. Traditionally sourced from Ecuador in Latin America, Indian bananas present a viable alternative for Russian markets. Apart from Russia, Indian bananas enjoy robust demand from various countries including Iran, Iraq, UAE, and Saudi Arabia.
Export Potential and Market Expansion
While India stands as the largest global producer of bananas, its export share remains modest at only 1% of the global market. However, with concerted efforts, India aims to boost banana exports to reach USD 1 billion within the next five years. This ambitious target holds the promise of increasing farmers' income and creating employment opportunities for thousands across the agricultural supply chain.
India's Role in Global Banana Production
Andhra Pradesh leads the pack as India's largest banana-producing state, followed by Maharashtra, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Uttar Pradesh. Together, these states contribute around 67% of India's total banana production. Despite its formidable production capacity, India's export performance has yet to fully reflect its dominance in the global banana market.
APEDA's efforts to promote agricultural and processed food product exports are yielding positive results. By organizing B2B exhibitions, conducting marketing campaigns, and exploring new markets, APEDA is expanding the reach of Indian agricultural products worldwide. Notably, the development of sea protocols underscores APEDA's commitment to overcoming logistical challenges and ensuring the quality of perishable exports like fresh fruits and vegetables.
#APEDA flagged off #Banana consignment to Moscow, #Russia via Sea. #CISH contributed to the development of the #SeaProtocols. M/s Gurukrupa Corporation, a #WomenEntrepreneurship sourced the bananas directly from the Andhra Pradesh farmers. pic.twitter.com/ncwDMbgcVf
— APEDA (@APEDADOC) February 18, 2024
