Itanagar, Arunachal: In a move aimed at taking Arunachal Pradesh’s agricultural produce to international buyers, the state on October 26 dispatched a trial consignment of kiwis to Dubai, marking a fresh attempt to tap overseas markets for its fruit growers.
The shipment was flagged off in the presence of Agriculture and Allied Minister Gabriel D. Wangsu and Tezu MLA Dr Mohesh Chai, signalling the government’s push to position Arunachal’s kiwi harvest beyond domestic markets.
The export initiative is being carried out under the Unique Selling Proposition (USP) component of the Arunachal Kiwi Project, which receives support from the Union Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER). The project seeks to enhance the marketability of the state’s kiwi produce and create new income opportunities for farmers.
Officials said the effort is part of a broader strategy to establish Arunachal Pradesh as a significant supplier of high-value horticultural products. Several state government departments are working together with institutions such as the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) and other stakeholders to strengthen export linkages and improve market access.
The initiative is guided by the vision of connecting local producers with international consumers, while ensuring that farmers remain the primary beneficiaries of the export value chain. Authorities believe direct access to global markets can help improve farm incomes, generate rural employment and contribute to the growth of the state’s agriculture-based economy.
Arunachal Pradesh is among the leading kiwi-producing states in India, and the trial export is expected to assess demand and market prospects in the Gulf region. The outcome of the consignment could help shape future export strategies for the state’s horticulture sector.
While officials have not disclosed details regarding the volume or commercial value of the shipment, the dispatch is being viewed as an important step towards expanding the global footprint of Arunachal-grown produce.
