India prepping to boost fresh produce exports

India is in the process of formulating sea protocols specifically tailored for fresh fruits and vegetables, including bananas, mangoes, pomegranates, and jackfruit. This initiative aims to boost the export of these agricultural products through ocean routes.

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India is actively working on establishing sea protocols for a range of fresh fruits and vegetables, such as bananas, mangoes, pomegranates, and jackfruit. The objective is to facilitate and enhance the export of these agricultural products through ocean routes.

Currently, the majority of exports for these commodities are conducted via air routes due to lower volumes and distinct ripening periods. The newly devised protocol encompasses considerations such as voyage time, a scientific understanding of commodity ripening, precision in harvesting at specific times, and farmer training. It’s important to note that these protocols will vary for different fruits and vegetables.

Rajesh Agrawal, the Additional Secretary in the Commerce Ministry, highlighted the dual advantages of cost and volume associated with shipments through sea routes. This strategic move is expected to enhance the export of fruits and vegetables, leveraging the cost-effectiveness and increased volume potential of sea cargo, ultimately positively impacting the price competitiveness of these agricultural commodities.

“So far, we are using air routes to export these perishable goods. But now, we are trying to see how we can use the sea route to send these agri products. Now, we have started developing sea protocols,” he said.