In a significant step towards enhancing India’s horticultural exports, the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), under the Ministry of Commerce & Industry, in collaboration with the Department of Horticulture, Government of Punjab and progressive farmer Shri Prabhat Singh, flagged off the first consignment of rose-scented litchis from Pathankot, Punjab to Doha, Qatar on 23rd June 2025. A separate 0.5 metric tonne shipment was also dispatched to Dubai, UAE, marking a dual-country export success.
This milestone reflects India’s growing footprint in global fresh produce markets and highlights the high quality and competitiveness of its horticultural products. The initiative was made possible through the combined efforts of APEDA, Punjab’s Horticulture Department, the Lulu Group, and Sujanpur-based farmer Shri Prabhat Singh.
As per data from the National Horticulture Board, Punjab produced 71,490 metric tonnes of litchi during 2023–24, accounting for 12.39% of India’s total output. Litchi is cultivated across 4,327 hectares in the state, with an impressive average yield of 16,523 kg per hectare.
The success story of farmers like Shri Prabhat Singh highlights Pathankot’s emergence as a promising litchi export hub. With favorable agro-climatic conditions and fertile land, the region is becoming a key contributor to premium litchi production. The exported consignments were shipped using reefer pallets and premium packaging to maintain freshness and meet global quality standards.
During FY 2024–25 (April–March), India’s fruit and vegetable exports reached USD 3.87 billion, recording a 5.67% increase over the previous year. While traditional fruits like mangoes, bananas, grapes, and oranges dominate exports, non-traditional varieties such as litchis, jamun, and cherries are gaining momentum internationally.
Driving India towards Global Agri-Leadership: The Government of India is committed to empowering farmers, strengthening Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), and expanding the country’s agri-export portfolio. APEDA continues to play a pivotal role in opening up global markets for Indian producers, positioning the country as a leader in the agricultural and processed food sector.
