Team TrickyScribe: India’s agricultural export sector has witnessed remarkable growth, particularly in the export of fruits and vegetables, which surged by 47.3% in volume and 41.5% in value over the last five years. This significant increase has been largely driven by the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) under the Ministry of Commerce & Industry. Through its Agriculture and Processed Foods Export Promotion Scheme (2021-22 to 2025-26), APEDA has provided extensive financial assistance to exporters, supporting infrastructure development, quality enhancement, and global market expansion.
Infrastructure Development Enhances Export Capabilities
APEDA’s infrastructure development initiatives have strengthened India’s agricultural supply chain. Exporters have been able to establish packhouse facilities equipped with advanced packing and grading lines, pre-cooling units, cold storage, and refrigerated transport systems. These upgrades have been instrumental in maintaining the freshness of exported produce. Additionally, investments in pre-shipment treatment facilities, such as irradiation, vapor heat treatment, and hot water dip treatment, have improved quality and shelf life. Common infrastructure facilities, reefer vans, and better crop handling systems, especially for perishable goods like bananas, have further boosted India’s export readiness.
Quality Standards Reinforced with Advanced Testing & Traceability
To maintain high export standards, APEDA has supported exporters in purchasing laboratory testing equipment, installing quality management systems, and implementing farm-level traceability systems. Handheld devices now capture crucial data such as soil health, water quality, and pesticide residues, ensuring that Indian agricultural exports meet stringent global safety norms. These quality enhancement measures have reinforced India’s reputation as a trusted supplier of high-quality fresh produce worldwide.
Expanding Market Reach to 123 Countries
India’s proactive trade promotion efforts have helped its fresh fruits and vegetables reach 123 countries, with 17 new international markets added in the last three years. Notable new markets include Brazil, Georgia, Uganda, Papua New Guinea, Czech Republic, and Ghana, demonstrating India’s growing presence in the global agricultural trade. Export earnings have surged from $1,282 million in 2019-20 to $1,814 million in 2023-24, underscoring the rising international demand for Indian fresh produce.
Mangoes & Onions Dominate India’s Fresh Produce Exports
Among India’s top fruit and vegetable exports, mangoes and onions continue to dominate global trade. Popular Indian mango varieties such as Kesar, Alphonso, and Banganapalli have secured strong international demand. Meanwhile, onion exports have remained stable, despite occasional fluctuations in domestic supply. The government has played a key role in securing market access for Indian agricultural products, including potatoes and onions in Serbia, baby corn and fresh bananas in Canada, and pomegranate arils in Australia, the USA, Serbia, and New Zealand. Additionally, whole pomegranates have now gained entry into Australia through irradiation treatment, providing new opportunities for Indian exporters.
Challenges in Global Market Access
Despite the growth in exports, Indian exporters face several challenges in expanding their presence in new markets. High logistics costs due to long geographical distances, delays in market access approvals, and stringent phytosanitary regulations continue to be significant obstacles. Some importing countries also impose complex and time-consuming registration processes for Indian enterprises, causing delays in trade.
Strategic Measures to Overcome Export Barriers
To tackle these challenges, APEDA and the Department of Commerce have identified key agricultural products and priority markets for focused trade negotiations. New sea transport protocols for horticulture products are being developed to reduce logistics costs and enable larger export volumes. Additionally, the government is collaborating with Indian embassies abroad to streamline registration procedures and facilitate quicker market entry for Indian exporters. To meet strict phytosanitary requirements, a robust traceability system and farmer registration framework has been implemented, ensuring compliance with international food safety norms.
Future Outlook: Strengthening India’s Global Agricultural Footprint
With sustained government support, strategic policy interventions, and growing global demand, India’s fruit and vegetable exports are set to scale new heights. By leveraging technological advancements, enhanced quality control, and proactive market access negotiations, India is well-positioned to expand its agricultural exports and solidify its standing as a major player in the global fresh produce market.
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