This trial marks the beginning of new export opportunities for the state’s farmers

In a milestone for Uttarakhand’s agri-export sector, Secretary of the Department of Commerce, Ministry of Commerce & Industry, Sunil Barthwal, flagged off the first-ever trial shipment of Garhwali Apples (King Roat variety) from Dehradun to Dubai. The consignment, weighing 1.2 MT, was facilitated by the Agricultural & Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.

This trial marks the beginning of new export opportunities for the state’s farmers. The lessons from the shipment will help refine cold chain systems, post-harvest practices, and logistics networks, paving the way for larger volumes in future. With APEDA and the Uttarakhand Government working in tandem, more farmer groups are set to benefit, while new markets in Southeast Asia and Europe are also on the horizon.

As part of its wider strategy to build a robust agri-export ecosystem in Uttarakhand, APEDA is actively promoting crops such as millets, coarse grains, organic produce, pulses, citrus fruits, kiwi, herbs, and medicinal plants. To provide closer support to stakeholders, the authority is establishing a Regional Office in Dehradun.

Efforts are also underway to secure organic certification and GI tagging for state-specific produce, enhancing their traceability and competitiveness in international markets. A recent MoU with M/s Lulu Group will further support export trials of regional products through its global retail chains.

Sustainability remains a priority. In partnership with the Centre for Aromatic Plants, Dehradun, APEDA has initiated plantation campaigns, including a pilot project that saw 2,200 saplings of Timru planted in Pauri district to promote eco-friendly cultivation and future export potential.

The successful export of Garhwali apples signals a new chapter for Uttarakhand’s farmers, strengthening the state’s position in global agricultural trade.