Punjab’s Litchis Reach Middle East Markets In Boost To India’s Fruit Exports

In a significant step towards diversifying India’s horticultural exports, Punjab has successfully shipped its first consignment of rose-scented litchis to the Middle East.

This development adds to the country’s growing basket of fruit exports and reflects the state’s agricultural potential beyond the traditional wheat-paddy belt.

Punjab exports 1.5 tonnes of litchis to Doha & Dubai

The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) confirmed that Punjab exported 1.5 tonnes of litchis to Doha and Dubai in June.

On June 23, authorities flagged off one tonne of litchis from Pathankot to Doha, while half a tonne was shipped to Dubai.

The joint efforts of APEDA, Punjab’s Horticulture Department, and Lulu Group enabled the exports.

A new chapter for Punjab’s horticulture sector

APEDA hailed the export as a ‘significant milestone’ for Punjab’s horticulture sector.

The move aligns with India’s broader strategy to promote regional fruits, boost agricultural exports, and enhance farmer incomes.

Punjab produced 71,490 tonnes of litchis in 2023–24, contributing to over 12% of India’s total litchi output.

Nationally, litchi exports stood at 639.53 tonnes during the same year.

Traditionally, India has exported popular fruits such as mangoes, bananas, grapes, and oranges.

However, APEDA noted a growing international interest in lesser-known native varieties like litchis, jamun, and cherries.

“Indigenous fruits are now finding space on international shelves,” APEDA stated, adding that such developments strengthen India’s fresh produce market presence globally.

Chief Minister Mann praises the achievement

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann welcomed the milestone, calling it ‘a new chapter of global recognition’ for the hard work of Punjab’s farmers. He credited the success to the state’s focused efforts on promoting regional produce in global markets.

“For the first time, the sweet and delicious litchis from Pathankot have reached stores in Doha, Qatar,” Mann said.

Mann also used the occasion to reinforce his call for agricultural diversification.

He urged farmers to move away from the wheat-paddy cycle, highlighting Punjab’s strong potential in fruit and vegetable cultivation.

The state government, he added, will continue supporting initiatives that promote crop diversification and help increase farmers’ incomes.

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