Arunachal Pradesh has dispatched a trial consignment of 1.5 tonnes of kiwi fruit to Dubai, United Arab Emirates, to explore international market opportunities for local growers. 

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• The consignment will be displayed at outlets of LuLu Hypermarket as part of efforts to assess the commercial potential of Arunachal-grown kiwi in overseas markets.

Key Features of the Initiative

The trial shipment has been undertaken by the state’s Departments of Trade and Commerce and Horticulture, in collaboration with the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority, under the Arunachal Kiwi Project.

• The shipment aims to showcase the quality of kiwi grown in Arunachal Pradesh and attract potential international buyers.
• The initiative seeks to strengthen market linkages, encourage value addition and improve farmers’ incomes.
• It will help assess the importance of quality standards, post-harvest management, packaging and export logistics in meeting international market requirements.
• If successful, the trial could help establish sustainable export channels for kiwi and other agricultural products from the state.

Why Is Kiwi Important for Arunachal Pradesh?

Arunachal Pradesh’s suitable high-altitude conditions in areas such as Ziro support kiwi cultivation. Horticulture offers farmers an opportunity to diversify beyond conventional crops and earn higher incomes from high-value produce.

• Export diversification: Access to overseas markets can expand demand beyond domestic markets.
• Higher farm incomes: Better market connections and value addition can help growers capture a greater share of the final selling price.
• Employment generation: Sorting, grading, packaging, cold storage and transportation can create rural employment.
• Regional economic development: Successful horticultural exports can encourage agribusiness and strengthen the rural economy.

Institutional Support

The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority, operating under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, promotes exports of agricultural and processed food products. Its support can help producers understand export procedures, quality requirements and international market opportunities.

The Agriculture Export Policy, 2018 also provides a broader framework for increasing agricultural exports, improving export-oriented infrastructure and connecting farmers with global value chains.

Exam Hook: Key Takeaway

Arunachal Pradesh’s kiwi trial shipment illustrates how horticultural diversification, export promotion and improved post-harvest infrastructure can create new income opportunities for farmers in the Northeast.

One-line Wrap: From Ziro’s orchards to Dubai’s retail shelves, the initiative seeks to turn Arunachal Pradesh’s horticultural potential into sustainable market opportunities.