India's green apple exports rise to 28% in 2023-24

Shimla: The cultivation of green apples has been taking place in several states of the country, such as Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and some areas of Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand. The climate of these northern hilly regions is perfect for apple cultivation, with farms producing up to 5 tonnes per acre.

India is one of the major apple producers across the world, but apple exports from the country are meagre; they are only 1.6%. Despite producing green apples, India has to import this fruit from China and the United States.

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In recent years India has sent its green apples overseas. India recorded 2,167 export shipments between October 2023 and September 2024, marking a 28% growth in exports. 865 buyers purchased these apples across several nations, showing increasing global interest in Indian produce.

However, India's inability to meet the international quality standards—especially those related to pesticide residue—remains a key challenge for Indian exporters. Experts recommend following Integrated Pest Management (IPM) practices to produce export-quality fruit.

Green apples are packed with taste, and they have several health benefits because they are low in calories, cholesterol-free, and rich in bioactive compounds and flavonoids. It has high nutritional value as well.