India has flagged off its first-ever consignment of rose-scented litchis from Pathankot, Punjab to Doha, Qatar—a symbolic breakthrough in the country’s push to expand its horticultural footprint in global markets. Facilitated by the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) under the Ministry of Commerce & Industry, the inaugural shipment of one metric tonne departed on June 23, 2025. A parallel consignment of 0.5 metric tonne was also sent to Dubai, UAE, marking a twin achievement for India’s fresh fruit exports.

This milestone underscores India’s growing competitiveness in the high-value agri-export segment. Sourced from progressive farmer Prabhat Singh and supported by the Department of Horticulture, Punjab, the premium litchis were packed and shipped under cold-chain protocols, highlighting the expanding role of logistics in fresh produce trade.

Punjab, which contributed 12.39 per cent to India’s total litchi output in FY 2023–24, produced over 71,000 metric tonnes of the fruit, with Pathankot emerging as a promising hub thanks to its favourable agro-climatic conditions. The success of this export is not only a win for regional farmers but also a signal of India’s diversification beyond traditional staples like mangoes and bananas.

India’s overall fruit and vegetable exports rose to $ 3.87 billion in FY 2024–25, reflecting a 5.67 per cent year-on-year increase. While grapes, oranges, and bananas continue to dominate, niche varieties like litchis, jamun, and cherries are steadily carving out space in premium international markets.

With APEDA leading the charge in enabling global market access for farmers, FPOs, and agri-exporters, India is staking a stronger claim in the global agri-trade map—one pallet of rose-scented litchis at a time.