Agri exports to reach 2022’s figures despite restrictions

India’s agricultural exports for FY24 are anticipated to match last year’s level of US$ 53 billion despite restrictions on the export of critical commodities such as rice, wheat, and sugar, according to government officials. 

Government data mentioned that the export ban and limitations on these commodities could impact exports by around US$ 4-5 billion in the current fiscal year. Despite these challenges, the officials expressed confidence that the target would be achieved, and the government is actively promoting the export of new products like bananas and value-added millet products to new global markets.

They mentioned that the government had imposed export restrictions on wheat and non-basmati white rice and curbs on sugar exports. They highlighted efforts to boost exports of bananas, aiming for US$ 1 billion in the next three years. India is developing sea protocols for various fresh fruits and vegetables, including bananas, mangoes, pomegranates, and jackfruit, to facilitate exports through ocean routes.

 Most of these exports are conducted via air due to lower volumes and different ripening periods. The protocols involve understanding voyage time, scientifically managing ripening, harvesting at specific times, and training farmers with variations for different fruits and vegetables.

While rice exports declined by 7.65% to US$ 6.5 billion during April-November, exports of fruits and vegetables, cereals, meat, dairy, and poultry products recorded a healthy growth rate. New products like hog plums and cranberries from Varanasi, coconut Neera from Tirupur, and potatoes from Aligarh are now part of India’s export portfolio. 

Experts highlighted that India currently supplies fresh fruits to 111 countries.

Source: Economic Times