NEW DELHI, 18 July 2026: The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) has facilitated the first export of premium Areko cherries and Scentrose plums from Jammu & Kashmir to Singapore, expanding the global reach of the region's high-value temperate fruits.

The export consignment, sourced from Shopian and Pulwama, was flagged off on July 16 in collaboration with Osum Food Solutions LLP and Fruit Master Agro Fresh Pvt. Ltd. The shipment follows the successful export of fresh cherries and plums from Kashmir to Abu Dhabi and Dubai earlier this season.

According to APEDA, the fruits were scientifically harvested, graded, packed and transported through a cold-chain system in compliance with international food safety and phytosanitary standards to ensure freshness upon arrival in Singapore.

The initiative is expected to help growers earn over 50% higher returns compared to conventional domestic markets. It is also aimed at promoting export-oriented horticulture, encouraging scientific cultivation and better post-harvest management, while reducing losses and improving value realisation for fruit growers.

APEDA said the export underscores its efforts to diversify export markets, strengthen India's horticultural exports and position Jammu & Kashmir as a reliable supplier of premium temperate fruits in international markets.