India plans to increase banana exports to Russia, with a goal of reaching $1 billion in the coming years. This initiative follows successful trial shipments to nations such as the Netherlands via sea routes, indicating a movement away from traditional air freight and toward marine channels for exporting fresh goods
Due to low numbers and varying ripening timelines, Indian banana exports, as well as mangoes, pomegranates, and jackfruit, are currently primarily delivered by air. To address these constraints and increase export quantities, the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), a division of the Commerce Ministry, is actively establishing marine protocols. These protocols are intended to ease the export of fresh produce by sea, providing a more cost-effective and scalable method for accessing global markets.
“We are targeting Russia to increase banana exports and will attend buyer-seller meetings in the country,” said APEDA Chairman Abhishek Dev. In 2023-24, India exported bananas worth $300 million, up from $176 million the previous year.
India, the world’s largest banana producer, has achieved impressive gains in the worldwide export market. The country’s proportion in banana exports increased from 0.21 per cent in 2013 to 1.74 per cent in 2023. This expansion reflects the government’s proactive attempts to promote banana growing and exports, including as financial assistance to farmers, improved infrastructure, and increased access to international markets.
Indian farmers’ use of sophisticated agricultural practices has also played an important influence in increasing banana yield and quality. By utilizing these technologies and focusing on maritime exports, India has the potential to considerably grow its presence in the global fruit market, with Russia emerging as an important trading partner.
As attempts to secure marine routes for exports ramp up, India’s ambitious $1 billion aim demonstrates the country’s commitment to expanding agricultural exports and establishing a significant position in the global banana trade.
