Raja Syed Rather
Ladakh, Aug 7: In a landmark moment for Ladakh’s Agri-export potential, the first-ever consignment of fresh Halman apricots was flagged off to Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Qatar.
The virtual flag-off was conducted by the Chairman of APEDA, while Rudra Goud P.T. (IAS), Administrative Secretary, Industries & Commerce, UT Ladakh, led the physical ceremony in Leh.
The event, jointly organized by APEDA and the UT administration in collaboration with M/s Fair Exports (India) Pvt. Ltd. — a subsidiary of LuLu Group International — marked a major milestone for local produce reaching international markets.
A total of 1.5 metric tonnes of premium Halman apricots, procured from Kargil and supplied by M/s Halman Apricot Kargil, were shipped after undergoing rigorous quality checks and international-standard packaging supported by APEDA’s export facilitation.
Known for their sweetness, rich flavour and long shelf life, Halman apricots are a traditional crop of Ladakh’s high-altitude valleys. The export initiative comes under APEDA’s “One District One Product” and “Vocal for Local, Global Outreach” missions, aimed at promoting indigenous produce to global consumers.
Officials hailed the effort as a model of successful collaboration between farmers, FPOs, government bodies and private exporters. APEDA’s regional head for J&K and Ladakh said, “This milestone is a tribute to the potential of Ladakhi produce and a boost for rural economy and global branding.”
M/s Fair Exports (India) Pvt. Ltd. noted a rising demand for Himalayan-origin fruits in Gulf markets and committed to scaling up procurement in future seasons.
The flag-off event saw participation from horticulture officials, local entrepreneurs, FPO members and administration representatives — all celebrating a new chapter for Ladakh’s agribusiness landscape.
With this successful maiden export, the Halman apricot steps into the global spotlight, offering new opportunities for economic growth and farmer empowerment in the region.
