Kullu's Sinduri Pomegranates Hit Dubai: APEDA Boosts HP Fruit Exports
APEDA facilitates the export of 1.3 MT of Sinduri pomegranates from Himachal Pradesh to Dubai, boosting farmer incomes by 50%.
In a significant move to diversify the agricultural exports of Himachal Pradesh, the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) has successfully facilitated the shipment of 1.3 metric tonnes (MT) of Sinduri variety pomegranates from the Kullu district to Dubai, UAE.
This strategic initiative aims to expand the overseas footprint of regional horticulture, moving beyond the state's traditional reliance on apple exports. According to the Ministry of Commerce & Industry, the consignment consisted of 650 boxes, each weighing two kilograms, and was managed by the Uttar Pradesh-based firm Amama Exports.
Empowering Local Farmers and FPOs
The export process established a direct international trade pathway by linking local cultivators and a Farmer Producer Organisation (FPO) with the trading house. The produce was sourced from local orchards and the Bhuntar Farmer Producer Organisation, which represents approximately 600 agricultural growers.
The Kullu district horticulture administration played a pivotal role in the operation, providing essential ground-level coordination and procurement support to ensure the shipment's success.
A Major Win for Grower Incomes
The shift from domestic sales to international markets has yielded immediate financial benefits for the farmers involved. The Ministry of Commerce & Industry highlighted that the export enabled participating growers to achieve a 50% higher price realisation compared to the prevailing benchmarks in the domestic market.
Beyond the immediate profit, the ministry noted that such linkages provide:
- Additional marketing opportunities for regional growers.
- Stronger incentives for quality-focused production.
- Increased participation of FPOs in the global agricultural export market.
The Appeal of the Sinduri Pomegranate
Himachal Pradesh cultivates several varieties of pomegranates, including the Bhagwa and Kandhari. However, the Sinduri variety is particularly well-suited for export. Known for its vibrant red skin, juicy arils, and a balanced sweet-tart flavor profile, the fruit meets the strict parameters required for both table consumption and the rigors of long-distance cargo movement.
The consignment was officially flagged off by APEDA Chairman Abhishek Dev, in an event attended by officials from the state horticulture department, corporate exporters, and farmer collectives. This event showcased the institutional coordination required between primary producers and regulatory authorities to build reliable trade channels.
Broadening the Horizon for Himachal Pradesh
The United Arab Emirates remains a primary destination for Indian agricultural output. In the 2025-26 financial year, India exported APEDA-scheduled agricultural and processed food products worth approximately USD 2.59 billion to the UAE, totaling about 3.81 million metric tonnes.
The shipment of pomegranates is part of a larger policy effort to diversify Himachal Pradesh's export basket. The state has the commercial capacity to export a variety of other commodities, including:
- Persimmons
- Stone fruits
- Fruit juices
- Ready-to-eat food items
The Ministry emphasized that continued focus on export compliance, market connectivity, and quality management will be key to increasing Himachal Pradesh's share in international agricultural commerce and opening more doors for regional growers.