Dehradun: Uttarakhand’s apples have made their way to international markets, with over 1.2 metric tonnes of fresh produce exported to Dubai from Dehradun. This marks a significant milestone for the state’s horticulture sector and is expected to boost the morale of local apple growers.
The apples were sourced from various regions of Uttarakhand, including Pauri, Almora, and Nainital, and packed in Dehradun before being shipped. The export was carried out under strict quality checks and international packaging standards to ensure freshness and safety.
🍎 देहरादून से दुबई के लिए 1.2 मीट्रिक टन गढ़वाली सेब (किंग रोट) की पहली परीक्षण खेप रवाना
#🚩 भारत सरकार के वाणिज्य सचिव श्री सुनील बर्थवाल ने सेब की खेप को हरी झंडी दिखाकर किया रवाना pic.twitter.com/qVQPib7qFR
— PIB in Uttarakhand (@PIBDehradun) August 21, 2025
This was made possible through the efforts of APEDA
This initiative was made possible through the efforts of APEDA (Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority), which worked closely with local farmers, exporters, and logistics partners. The apples were sent via road and air cargo, ensuring timely delivery to Dubai’s markets.
Opens up new possibilities for future exports
According to officials, this is the first commercial shipment of Uttarakhand apples to the UAE, and it opens up new possibilities for future exports. The apples were selected based on their quality, taste, and shelf life, and were packed using modern cold chain systems to maintain freshness during transit.
Plan to promote organic and high-altitude produce from Uttarakhand to global markets
The move is part of a larger plan to promote organic and high-altitude produce from Uttarakhand to global markets. Apples from the state are known for their natural sweetness, crisp texture, and pesticide-free cultivation, making them ideal for health-conscious consumers abroad.
Local farmers have welcomed the development, saying it will help them earn better prices and reduce dependence on middlemen. “This is a big opportunity for us. If our apples reach international markets, we can invest more in quality and expand our orchards,” said a grower from Pauri.
Government’s vision of turning Uttarakhand into an agri-export hub
The export also supports the government’s vision of turning Uttarakhand into an agri-export hub, especially for fruits like apples, plums, peaches, and kiwis. Officials say that more such shipments are planned in the coming months, targeting countries like Singapore, Qatar, and Oman.
Training sessions were held for farmers
To ensure smooth operations, training sessions were held for farmers on grading, sorting, and packaging. Exporters were also guided on international standards and documentation. The apples were certified under Good Agricultural Practices (GAPs), which are essential for global trade. As the apples land in Dubai and reach supermarket shelves, Uttarakhand’s farmers are hopeful that their hard work will be recognized globally.
It has encouraged stakeholders to explore more export-friendly crops
The success of this shipment has encouraged stakeholders to explore more export-friendly crops and improve infrastructure. Cold storage facilities, better roads, and faster transport systems are being planned to support future exports. “This is just the beginning,” said a senior official from APEDA. “Uttarakhand has the potential to become a leader in high-quality fruit exports. With the right support, our farmers can reach markets across the world.”
