India marked a significant achievement in agricultural exports with its first-ever trial shipment of pomegranates to Australia via sea, officials confirmed on Monday. This move enhances market access while reducing costs compared to air freight. Previously, pomegranates were only exported by air due to lower volumes and varying ripening periods. However, after securing a market access agreement, India finalized standard operating procedures (SOPs) in February 2024.
The first air shipment in July 2024 gauged demand, paving the way for cost-effective sea transportation. The inaugural sea consignment, carrying 5.7 metric tonnes from Maharashtra’s Solapur region, left India on December 6, 2024, and arrived in Sydney on January 13, 2025. A second shipment of 6.56 metric tonnes of the Bhagwa variety reached Brisbane on January 6. These exports were facilitated by APEDA, AgroStar’s INI Farms, and Kay Bee Exports, with integration into ANARNET, India’s traceability system, ensuring quality and compliance.
The pomegranates received a strong response in Sydney, Brisbane, and Melbourne, leading to immediate demand for more shipments. The deliveries strategically aligned with Australia’s off-season, maximizing export potential.
APEDA chairman Abhishek Dev highlighted India’s rising agricultural exports, noting a 29% surge in fresh fruit exports and a 20% growth in pomegranate sales. He emphasized India’s commitment to global quality standards and future collaborations to expand export volumes. With the next export season beginning in September, exporters are eager to build on this success.
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