Uttarakhand’s premium litchi has entered the European market for the first time, with the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority facilitating the first export consignment of fresh litchi from Dehradun to Italy.
The consignment was shipped on June 18 and included one metric tonne of fresh litchi from Uttarakhand.
The move marks an important step for the state’s horticulture sector and is expected to open new international market opportunities for growers.
According to the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, the export was facilitated by APEDA in coordination with the Uttarakhand government, exporters, farmer producer organisations, logistics partners and other stakeholders.
Dehradun litchi is known for its sweetness, red colour, delicate aroma and superior pulp quality.
The region is also associated with well-known varieties such as Rose Scented, Calcuttia and Bedana.
The favourable agro-climatic conditions of Uttarakhand, especially in districts such as Dehradun, Haridwar, Nainital and Udham Singh Nagar, give the fruit strong market appeal.
The export has also brought better returns for farmers.
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Growers received prices about 25 per cent higher than prevailing domestic market rates, which is expected to encourage more farmers to adopt quality production practices and participate in export-oriented horticulture.
The ministry said the shipment to Italy reflects the growing acceptance of India’s high-quality fresh fruits in global markets.
It also strengthens India’s presence in the international fresh fruit trade while promoting premium produce from the Himalayan region.
APEDA has been working to expand India’s agri-export reach through market development, quality assurance, infrastructure support and capacity-building initiatives.
The first export of Uttarakhand litchi to Italy is expected to help diversify export destinations for Indian fresh fruits and improve access for farmers to high-value international markets.
