By Pravin Kumar
In a landmark achievement for India’s horticulture sector, the first-ever commercial consignment of premium cherries from Jammu and Kashmir was flagged off to Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on Monday, marking a significant milestone in the region’s entry into global fresh produce markets.
Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal announced the development with enthusiasm, highlighting its potential to transform the fortunes of cherry farmers in the Union Territory.
In a post on the social media platform X, Minister Goyal celebrated the occasion, stating, “So much to CHEER! The first commercial consignment of premium cherries from Jammu and Kashmir heads to Saudi Arabia and the UAE. A huge market opens up for our cherry farmers, who will now get a better price for their produce.” He emphasized that this export breakthrough aligns with the Modi government’s ‘Vocal for Local’ initiative, which aims to promote Indian products on the global stage while empowering local farmers.
A Sweet Victory for Jammu and Kashmir’s Horticulture
Jammu and Kashmir, known for its breathtaking landscapes and rich agricultural heritage, produces over 95% of India’s commercial cherry varieties, including Double, Makhmali, Mishri, and Italy. The region’s cherries are celebrated for their exceptional quality, flavor, and nutritional value, making them a sought-after commodity in international markets.
The successful dispatch of this consignment to Saudi Arabia and the UAE is a testament to the region’s potential as a global supplier of premium agricultural products.
The export initiative, facilitated by the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), underscores the government’s commitment to enhancing India’s agri-export ecosystem. The cherries, carefully harvested, cleaned, and packed to meet global standards, were supported by technical inputs from the Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Science and Technology of Kashmir. Logistical support, including temperature-controlled storage and rapid shipment solutions, ensured the cherries reached international markets at peak freshness.
The consignment is destined for premium retail outlets operated by the Lulu Group, one of the largest retail chains in the Middle East, catering to the growing demand for exotic and high-quality fruits in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. This move not only showcases the superior quality of Kashmiri cherries but also strengthens India’s position as a reliable supplier of premium agri-products.
Bridging Logistical Gaps for Global Reach
Minister Goyal highlighted the Modi government’s efforts to bridge logistical gaps and reduce barriers to market access for Indian farmers. “The PM Modi government has been bridging logistical gaps to position India as a global supplier of premium agri-products. What a win for ‘Vocal for Local’,” he posted on X, underscoring the government’s commitment to transforming India into an agri-export powerhouse.
This export milestone builds on recent advancements in the region’s logistics infrastructure. On May 31, 2025, the Jammu Railway Division flagged off its first dedicated cherry cargo train, transporting 24 tons of cherries from Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra Railway Station to Mumbai’s Bandra Terminus in just 30 hours. This initiative, a collaboration between the Northern Railway’s Jammu Division, the Horticulture Department of Jammu and Kashmir, and local fruit growers’ associations, demonstrated the potential of rail transport for perishable goods. The integration of cold chain-compatible parcel vans and express delivery schedules has opened new avenues for high-value commodities like cherries.
A Step Toward Economic Empowerment
The export of Kashmiri cherries to Saudi Arabia and the UAE is expected to open a vast international market for local farmers, ensuring better prices and increased income. According to the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, India’s cumulative exports (merchandise and services) for FY 2024-25 are projected to grow by 5.5% to USD 820.93 billion, reflecting the country’s growing prowess in global trade. The cherry consignment is a step toward achieving this vision, with stakeholders hopeful that it will pave the way for sustained exports of other high-quality fruits from Jammu and Kashmir, such as apples, walnuts, and saffron.
