APEDA Drives 1.5 MT Kiwi Export from Arunachal Pradesh to Dubai

The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority ([APEDA](/topic/agriculture-msp)), under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, has successfully facilitated the trial export of 1.5 metric tonnes (MT) of kiwi from Ziro, Arunachal Pradesh, to Dubai, United Arab Emirates. This initiative, part of the branding campaign "Kiwi: USP of Arunachal Pradesh," aims to bolster the state's kiwi sector and connect local growers with international markets.

The kiwi export initiative was officially launched on November 3, 2026, and the consignment reached Dubai shortly thereafter. It was showcased at the LuLu Hypermarket in Al Qusais, a significant retail outlet in the UAE. This trial export is not merely a logistical achievement; it represents a strategic move to assess the fruit's potential in international markets and gauge consumer response.

Arunachal Pradesh is known for its high-altitude growing conditions, which contribute to the distinctive quality and flavor of its kiwis. The major varieties cultivated in the region include Hayward, Monty, Allison, and Bruno, with the Hayward variety particularly noted for its demand in overseas markets. The successful arrival of this consignment at a major retail location is a pivotal step towards establishing a foothold for Arunachal Pradesh kiwis in the global market.

This initiative is a collaborative effort involving the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (MDoNER), the Department of Trade & Commerce, and the Department of Horticulture of Arunachal Pradesh. The primary goal is to introduce the state's kiwis to international consumers while developing stronger market linkages that can enhance export opportunities for local farmers.

Shri Gabriel D. Wangsu, the Minister of Agriculture & Allied Departments for Arunachal Pradesh, emphasized the importance of this initiative during the flag-off ceremony. He stated, "This export trial is a significant step towards enhancing the visibility of our agricultural products on the global stage and improving the livelihoods of our farmers."

The involvement of local stakeholders, including the Kiwi Growers Cooperative Society and Fair Exports India Pvt. Ltd., underscores the initiative's comprehensive approach to market integration. By connecting local producers with potential overseas buyers, the program aims to create additional sales channels and improve returns for farmers.

With the kiwis now available on retail shelves, consumer feedback will play a crucial role in determining the fruit's acceptability and potential demand in the UAE market. The initiative includes plans for consumer tasting sessions, which will provide valuable insights into preferences, quality expectations, and packaging requirements. These insights are expected to guide local growers and exporters in preparing for future commercial shipments.

The trial export serves as a foundation for assessing market response and identifying the necessary requirements for expanding the presence of Arunachal Pradesh kiwis internationally. The feedback collected will inform strategies for enhancing product quality and marketing approaches, ensuring that local growers can effectively compete in global markets.

The successful trial export of kiwis to Dubai is just the beginning of a broader strategy to promote agricultural and horticultural products from Arunachal Pradesh. APEDA's ongoing support for local farmers aims to facilitate their access to international markets, thereby enhancing their economic prospects.

As the initiative progresses, it is expected to pave the way for more substantial exports, potentially leading to increased production and improved livelihoods for kiwi growers in the region. The focus on quality and market readiness will be essential in establishing a sustainable export framework that benefits all stakeholders involved.

The potential for Arunachal Pradesh's kiwi sector is significant, given the state's unique climatic advantages and the growing global demand for high-quality fruit. By leveraging these strengths, the initiative aims to position Arunachal Pradesh as a key player in the international kiwi market.

The trial export of 1.5 MT of kiwi from Arunachal Pradesh to Dubai marks a crucial milestone in the state's agricultural development journey. With the backing of government initiatives and the active participation of local growers, the future looks promising for the kiwi sector. As the initiative unfolds, it will not only enhance the visibility of Arunachal Pradesh's agricultural products but also contribute to the economic empowerment of its farmers. The successful integration of local produce into international markets could serve as a model for similar initiatives in the future.