Odisha’s dragon fruit makes global debut with first export batch to Dubai

New Delhi: Odisha’s dragon fruit has achieved a milestone with its first-ever export to Dubai, marking a new chapter in the state’s agricultural export efforts. The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), in collaboration with Odisha’s Directorate of Horticulture and supported by Palladium as the technical support unit for the Promotion and Stabilization of Farmer Producer Organizations (PSFPO) project, facilitated this shipment.

On September 4, 2024, a batch of 4 quintals of premium quality, organically grown dragon fruit was dispatched from Patnagarh, Balangir district to Dubai via Bhubaneswar International Airport. The dragon fruits, known for their vibrant red flesh and superior size, were cultivated using organic practices. While local prices had been modest, ranging from Rs 120 to 160 per kilogram, the international market has seen these fruits valued between Rs 250 to 260 per kilogram. This price increase underscores the growing demand and the premium placed on high-quality organic produce.

Deputy Chief Minister K.V. Singh Deo expressed, “Organic dragon fruits have shown tremendous benefits for cancer patients and have also been effective in reducing blood pressure, managing sugar levels, and combating other diseases. I am optimistic that these fresh and organic products will reach every household, contributing to better health outcomes. Additionally, I look forward to expanding exports to Southeast Asian countries where there is high demand. I am deeply grateful to APEDA, the Directorate of Horticulture, and Palladium India for making this export a reality.”

Palladium’s Associate Director, Biswajit Behera, praised the initiative, noting that Palladium’s Market System Development (MSD) approach has been instrumental in helping Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) meet export market standards. Since starting this export journey in May, Palladium has facilitated exports from several districts of Odisha to seven countries. 

Behera highlighted, “We are thrilled that fruit crops like dragon fruits, produced in Odisha, have now gained the recognition they deserve and are being sold with around 100% incremental price value in the international market. Being fully organic, these dragon fruits offer numerous health benefits, and we are excited to see people across the globe enjoying them. Looking forward to increasing the export connect for spices, floriculture, millets in addition to fresh vegetables in times to come.”

The event was marked by a ceremony attended by key officials, including Principal Secretary Dr. Arabinda K. Padhee, Director of Horticulture Nikhil Pavan Kalyan, Regional Director of APEDA Sitakanta Mandal, and others.

Odisha government and Palladium’s efforts encompass training farmers, improving supply chains, and advancing market development. Recently, in partnership with APEDA, they have successfully exported mangoes and vegetables. Looking ahead, Palladium plans to broaden export opportunities to new markets and launch spice exports to the European Union.