Arunachal Pradesh Kiwi Makes Its Debut in Dubai Market
The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), affiliated with India’s Ministry of Commerce and Industry, has successfully facilitated the trial export of 1.5 metric tonnes of kiwi from Ziro, Arunachal Pradesh, to Dubai, UAE. This milestone shipment, which arrived at LuLu Hypermarket in Al Qusais, represents a significant step in evaluating the potential of this unique fruit in international markets.
Boosting the Kiwi Sector in Arunachal Pradesh
This initiative, spearheaded by the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (MDoNER), intends to elevate Arunachal Pradesh’s kiwi industry under the branding initiative “Kiwi: USP of Arunachal Pradesh.” In collaboration with the state’s Department of Trade & Commerce and Department of Horticulture, the goal is to introduce local kiwis to global markets, gauge consumer responses, and create robust market linkages to enhance export opportunities for local farmers.
Unique Growing Conditions Enhance Kiwi Quality
Arunachal Pradesh’s high-altitude conditions and favorable natural environment contribute to growing kiwis known for their distinctive quality and flavor. The region produces several varieties, including Hayward, Monty, Allison, and Bruno, with the Hayward variety showing promising demand abroad. Beyond local consumption, the state aims to promote its kiwis in both domestic and international markets, along with value-added product development.
Market Assessment at LuLu Hypermarket
The arrival of the kiwi shipment in Dubai marks a progression from mere flag-off to a critical retail-level market assessment. Consumers at LuLu Hypermarket can now taste the fruit and provide feedback, which will play a crucial role in understanding market acceptability and potential demand. Insights gathered will help growers refine their products according to consumer preferences regarding quality, packaging, and presentation.
Connecting Farmers to Global Markets
This initiative aims to link local kiwi farmers with potential international markets. By establishing new sales channels, it seeks to generate better returns for farmers through future exports. The trial export serves as a foundational step to assess market reactions and determine the requirements necessary for expanding the footprint of Arunachal Pradesh kiwis worldwide.
Dignitaries Support the Initiative
The flag-off ceremony featured prominent figures including Shri Gabriel D. Wangsu, Minister of Agriculture & Allied Departments of Arunachal Pradesh, and Dr. Mohesh Chai, MLA-cum-Advisor to the Minister of Trade & Commerce. Other notable attendees included local MLAs, secretaries from various departments, and representatives from the Kiwi Growers Cooperative Society and Fair Exports India Pvt. Ltd., along with APEDA officials and local kiwi farmers.
APEDA’s Commitment to Northeast Exports
Through this initiative, APEDA is reinforcing its commitment to promoting agricultural and horticultural products from India’s Northeast region. The successful debut of Arunachal Pradesh kiwi in Dubai not only showcases local agriculture but also paves the way for its growers to enter the international trade sphere.
