India Exports Punjab Litchis to Middle East for the First Time

Breaking new ground in India’s horticultural exports, Punjab has successfully sent its first shipment of litchis to the Middle East. A total of 1.5 tonnes of the fragrant, rose-flavoured fruit were exported this June to Doha and Dubai, according to the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA).

This achievement was the result of a joint initiative involving APEDA, Punjab’s Department of Horticulture, and retail giant Lulu Group. On June 23, one tonne of litchis from Pathankot was dispatched to Doha, while another half tonne reached Dubai.

APEDA hailed the development as a major step for Punjab’s fruit-growing sector, stating, “This showcases the export potential of regional produce and highlights the growing global appetite for Indian fruits.” The move is part of the government’s larger strategy to diversify agricultural exports and enhance income for farmers.

Traditionally known for mango exports, India is now seeing increased global interest in other native fruits as well. APEDA reported that, in 2023–24, India produced over 71,000 tonnes of litchis, with Punjab alone contributing more than 12% of the total. National litchi exports during this period stood at 639.53 tonnes.

While fruits such as mangoes, bananas, and grapes continue to dominate exports, newer varieties like cherries, jamun, and litchis are gaining international traction. The export of Punjab’s litchis adds a new dimension to India’s growing fresh produce footprint globally.

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann welcomed the milestone, attributing it to the state’s ongoing efforts to boost the global presence of its agricultural products. “For the first time, Pathankot’s delicious litchis have reached the shelves of Doha’s markets. This marks an important moment for our farmers and the quality they deliver,” Mann said.

He also reiterated the need to shift away from the traditional wheat-paddy cultivation cycle, encouraging farmers to consider alternative crops like fruits and vegetables. “Diversification is key to increasing farmers’ income. Punjab’s climate and soil make it ideal for a wide range of horticultural produce,” he added.

India’s overall export of fruits and vegetables grew 5.67% year-on-year in 2024–25, reaching $3.87 billion. With this successful consignment, Punjab’s farmers are expected to gain new opportunities in global markets, bolstering both the region’s economy and India’s reputation as a source of premium produce.

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