The export of Ladakh apricots opens up the potential of shipments of other temperate fruits and organic products from the region to the Middle-Eastern countries
The first commercial shipment of apricot sourced from region of Union Territory (UT) of Ladakh has been exported to Dubai. The consignment of apricot was transhipped from Leh, Ladakh to Mumbai before being exported to Dubai. APEDA has been working to establish an export value chain for Ladakh apricot in association with an importer group based in Dubai. The shipment was exported by APEDA registered exporter from Mumbai.
Ladakh apricots have a unique soothing taste and texture with high sugar contents and total soluble solids. UT of Ladakh produces several varieties of apricots out of which four to five varieties are taken up for commercial cultivation and export opportunities exist for these varieties.
Before this shipment to Dubai, few sample shipments of fresh apricots were sent during August from Leh to Dubai by air.
APEDA is currently assisting the exports in building the brand of Ladakh apricots. The fruit for the shipment was harvested, cleaned and packed by local entrepreneurs who were provided technical assistance by APEDA on the requirements of the export value chain.
The export of Ladakh apricots opens up the potential of shipments of other temperate fruits and organic products from the region to the Middle-Eastern countries.
There have been repeat orders for shipment of Ladakh apricots to various other destinations of the Middle Eastern countries such as Oman and Qatar. For giving boost to exports of agricultural produce from Ladakh, which would enhance farmers’ as well as entrepreneurs’ income, APEDA in association with officials of the horticulture, agriculture, commerce and industry departments of Union Territory and Defence Institute of High-Altitude Research are working out comprehensive plan of actions.
