India Exports Fresh Jamun to London First Time

India Exports Fresh Jamun to London for the First Time

In a historic leap for Indian agricultural exports, India has dispatched its first-ever consignment of fresh Jamun to London. The export, originating from Karnataka, was facilitated by the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA). This major move is expected to significantly enhance farmer incomes while strengthening India’s footprint in the global fruit export market.

Until now, only frozen Jamun was exported from India. This is the first time that fresh Jamun fruit has been sent to the international market. The export was handled by Anantha Organic Products Pvt Ltd, which sourced the fruits directly from a local Farmer Producer Organisation (FPO). According to its owner, Mr. Parthasardhi, this step will help farmers receive much better returns — nearly Rs 110 per kg compared to Rs 50-60 per kg in domestic markets.

The fruits were packed at a Plant Quarantine-approved facility developed by Karnataka’s Department of Horticulture. This ensures that the shipment complies with international quality and phytosanitary standards. Karnataka, already known for its high-quality Jamun production, is set to become a major player in the global fresh fruit market.

This achievement is part of a larger trend in Indian agri-exports. Earlier this week, premium cherries from Jammu and Kashmir were also exported to Saudi Arabia and the UAE. Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal celebrated these developments as part of India’s 'Vocal for Local' initiative, which aims to boost the global presence of Indian produce.

Minister Goyal noted that the central government is actively bridging logistical gaps to position India as a major exporter of premium agri-products. These recent developments are seen as significant milestones for the country’s farmers and exporters. They also emphasize India's growing ability to meet international demand for high-quality fruits and vegetables.

As per the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, India's total merchandise and services exports reached $820.93 billion in FY25, reflecting a 5.5% year-on-year growth. Out of this, fruit and vegetable exports alone rose by 5.67%, hitting $3.87 billion. Traditionally dominated by grapes, mangoes, bananas, and oranges, the Indian export basket now sees Jamun joining the elite league of internationally traded fruits.

APEDA reaffirmed that India’s vast horticultural landscape is full of untapped potential. The successful export of fresh Jamun is expected to pave the way for more indigenous fruits making their way to global supermarket shelves. With rising global interest in nutrient-rich and medicinal fruits, Jamun holds promise due to its known health benefits.

As India continues to diversify its agri-exports, this milestone underlines the importance of infrastructure development, farmer empowerment, and export-readiness. For small and mid-sized farmers in states like Karnataka, this is a promising step toward improved livelihoods and global recognition of India’s agricultural excellence.