Arunachal's Golden Fruit Hits Dubai Shelves in Bold Export Trial
APEDA facilitates the first trial shipment of Arunachal Pradesh kiwi to Dubai to test retail demand and quality standards at LuLu Hypermarket.
In a significant move to put Northeast India's horticultural prowess on the global map, a trial shipment of Arunachal Kiwi Dubai shipment has officially arrived in the United Arab Emirates. This strategic initiative, aimed at assessing the retail viability of the fruit in international markets, saw 1.5 metric tonnes of premium kiwis sourced from the scenic heights of Ziro, Arunachal Pradesh, land in Dubai.
From Ziro to LuLu Hypermarket
The shipment was facilitated by the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), an arm of the Ministry of Commerce & Industry. To move beyond mere logistics and enter the realm of real-world market testing, the produce was placed on display at the LuLu Hypermarket in Al Qusais. This placement allows the authorities to gather direct consumer feedback and gauge the reception of the fruit among overseas shoppers.
The entire export drive was a collaborative effort involving several key entities:
- The Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (MDoNER).
- The Department of Trade & Commerce of Arunachal Pradesh.
- The Department of Horticulture of Arunachal Pradesh.
Testing the Global Appetite
This project is part of a larger regional promotion titled "Kiwi: USP of Arunachal Pradesh," designed specifically to bridge the gap between local farming communities and international commercial channels. By placing the fruit directly on retail shelves, the initiative is focusing on several critical metrics for future success:
- Consumer Response: In-store tastings are being conducted to see how the flavor profile resonates with international buyers.
- Packaging and Presentation: Evaluating what packaging standards are required to compete in high-end retail spaces.
- Quality Benchmarks: Establishing the quality standards necessary for sustainable commercial ventures.
The Secret of the High Altitudes
The unique climate and high-altitude terrain of Arunachal Pradesh provide the perfect ecosystem for growing distinct kiwi varieties. While the region produces varieties such as Monty, Allison, and Bruno, the Hayward variety has emerged as the primary point of commercial interest for overseas markets due to its popularity and taste.
The data gathered from this trial will serve as a vital baseline for regional cooperatives and exporters as they plan larger, subsequent consignments.
A Unified Push for the Northeast
The dispatch event in Arunachal Pradesh highlighted the state's commitment to this venture, attended by a host of dignitaries including Gabriel D. Wangsu, Minister of Agriculture & Allied Departments, and Dr. Mohesh Chai, Advisor to the Minister of Trade & Commerce. Other key attendees included Ziro MLA Hage Appa, Special Secretary for Agriculture and Horticulture Rishita Gupta, Trade & Commerce Secretary Bullo Mamu, and Horticulture Secretary Koj Rinya.
The event also saw the participation of Director Kardirvel Govindasamy from ICER Shillong, alongside representatives from Fair Exports India Pvt. Ltd. and the Kiwi Growers Cooperative Society, emphasizing the partnership between government bodies and private exporters.
Through this initiative, APEDA continues its mission to promote the agricultural and horticultural riches of the Northeast, ensuring that local growers are not just farming for local consumption but are prepared to compete and thrive in the global trade arena.