n a groundbreaking development for India’s fresh fruit export sector, the first commercial sea shipment of Indian pomegranates successfully arrived in New York, United States, heralding a significant achievement in the global trade of Indian agricultural produce. This inaugural shipment of 14 tons, consisting of the highly coveted Bhagwa variety of pomegranates, originates from Ahilyanagar in Maharashtra. The milestone reflects India’s growing capability to cater to international demand for premium fresh fruits and underscores its position as a major player in the export of horticultural produce.
The shipment is part of an evolving trend in the pomegranate supply chain, which has transitioned from reliance on air freight to the cost-effective and sustainable sea freight model. This transition follows India securing market access for pomegranates to the United States during the 2023 season. The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), in collaboration with the United States Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (USDA-APHIS), India’s National Plant Protection Organization, and the National Research Centre for Pomegranate in Solapur, conducted trial shipments via air before embarking on this landmark commercial venture.
A pivotal factor in enabling this transition was the success of a static trial that extended the shelf life of pomegranates to up to 60 days. This development was achieved through the joint efforts of APEDA and the Indian Council of Agricultural Research’s National Research Centre for Pomegranate. Building on the success of this innovation, India’s first trial commercial sea shipment, consisting of 12.6 tons, was dispatched in February 2024. This shipment, managed in collaboration with InI Farms, departed from the Irradiation Facility Center under the Maharashtra State Agricultural Marketing Board in Navi Mumbai.
APEDA’s proactive measures to streamline the export process were instrumental in ensuring the success of this endeavor. The USDA pre-clearance program for pomegranates, facilitated by APEDA in December 2024, addressed logistical and regulatory challenges, thereby enabling Indian agricultural exporters to penetrate the U.S. market. The authority’s foresight in inviting USDA inspectors well in advance ensured the timely processing and smooth arrival of the shipment.
Arriving on the U.S. East Coast within five weeks of its departure, the 4,620-box consignment was met with enthusiastic reception in New York. The quality of the pomegranates was described as “excellent,” with consumers lauding the Bhagwa variety’s visual appeal and exceptional taste. The shipment’s success has set a precedent for future exports, potentially positioning Indian pomegranates as a staple in the competitive American fresh fruit market.
Chairman of APEDA, Abhishek Dev, highlighted the significance of this achievement, stating, “The Government of India has prioritized promoting Indian fresh fruits in global markets. APEDA’s support, through initiatives such as the pre-clearance program, has facilitated better economic outcomes for Indian farmers by providing access to premium international markets. While Indian mangoes have achieved an annual export volume of 3,500 tons, we anticipate similar success for pomegranates in the years to come.”
The consignment was managed by Kay Bee Exports, a Mumbai-based leader in fruit and vegetable exports. By sourcing directly from local farms, Kay Bee Exports ensured that the benefits of this international trade extend to grassroots farmers. Kaushal Khakhar, CEO of Kay Bee Exports, expressed gratitude to APEDA for its role in facilitating the export process and emphasized the company’s commitment to delivering high-quality fruit to discerning global consumers.
Industry representatives also voiced optimism about the potential for Indian pomegranates in the U.S. market, citing their distinctive flavor, deep red hue, and rich nutritional profile. They called for continued support from APEDA to launch promotional campaigns aimed at familiarizing American consumers with the fruit’s diverse culinary applications.
India is the second-largest producer of horticultural crops globally, with states such as Maharashtra, Gujarat, Karnataka, Rajasthan, and Andhra Pradesh leading in pomegranate cultivation. In the financial year 2023-24, India exported 72,011 metric tons of pomegranates valued at USD 69.08 million. Exports have seen a 21% growth in the current fiscal year, amounting to USD 59.76 million between April 2024 and January 2025. Traditional export markets include the United Arab Emirates, Bangladesh, and Saudi Arabia, with the United States now emerging as a key destination.
The Government of India’s commitment to developing sea freight protocols for perishable goods exemplifies its dedication to expanding the global footprint of Indian agriculture. By fostering innovation and addressing supply chain challenges, India is well-positioned to secure a prominent place for its pomegranates in international markets, bringing economic prosperity to farmers and enhancing the nation’s export portfolio.
