Indian perishables exports a sweet success story

All key players in the supply chain are investing to increase capacity, upgrade technology and focus on sustainability.

- Jyothi Shankaran

Exports of fruits and vegetables increased 11 percent to $1.8 billion in the financial year 2023-24 (April 2023-March 2024) while volume declined 10 percent to 3.91 million tonnes. Floriculture exports increased eight percent to $208 million and volume was down marginally to 34,132 tonnes, according to data from Agricultural And Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (Apeda).

The momentum continues in the current financial year with Hyderabad International Airport experiencing a significant surge in the export of fruits and vegetables, achieving an year-on-year growth of approximately 25 percent in the first half of FY2024-25, says Pradeep Panicker, CEO, Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (RGIA). "Additionally, poultry exports, specifically hatching eggs, resumed during this period, with a total export volume exceeding 800 tonnes. This growth was primarily driven by the addition of new exporters who were drawn to the facility's superior perishable handling capabilities. The advanced infrastructure and streamlined processes at GMR Aero Cargo Logistics Terminal in Hyderabad Airport have enabled efficient and reliable handling of perishable commodities, making it an attractive hub for agricultural exports."

Adani Airports registered a six percent growth in the handling of perishable cargo during H1FY2025 over the same period in the previous year. "This achievement underscores our commitment to providing world-class facilities and our contribution in transportation of perishable goods supporting the Indian agricultural sector by providing a reliable and efficient channel in the perishable supply chain. This service also enables access to global markets. Adani Airports is firmly committed to investing in and handling perishable exports, aiming to establish India as a strategic gateway for agricultural exports and to transform our nation into the agro capital of the world," says a company spokesperson.