India is focusing on enhancing its banana exports to Russia, following successful trial shipments to countries like the Netherlands via sea route, as stated by an official. The nation aims to achieve a $1 billion target in banana exports in the foreseeable future. Currently, the export of fruits including bananas predominantly occurs through air due to lower volumes and varied ripening periods. According FreshPlaza, to boost volumes, India is formulating sea protocols for fresh produce such as bananas, mangoes, pomegranates, and jackfruit, aiming to facilitate their exportation through maritime channels.
The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), a sector of the commerce ministry, in collaboration with relevant stakeholders, has been instrumental in developing these protocols specifically for bananas. “We are targeting Russia to increase banana exports. We are going to participate in buyer-seller meets in Russia,” mentioned APEDA Chairman Abhishek Dev. He highlighted that India’s banana exports reached $300 million in 2023-24, marking an increase from $176 million in the previous year.
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As a leading banana producer, India has significantly increased its footprint in the global banana export market, with its share rising from 0.21% in 2013 to 1.74% in 2023. The government’s proactive approach to promoting banana cultivation and export through financial assistance to farmers, infrastructure enhancement, and market access facilitation has been pivotal. Additionally, the adoption of modern agricultural practices by domestic farmers has led to a surge in production and the quality of bananas.
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