In a first, a consignment of 1 tonne of Khasi mandarins was transported via air cargo from Guwahati Customs to Dubai, marking the first-ever direct export shipment from the region using this route.
With the onset of winter, citrus fruit is coming into season in Meghalaya. These particular mandarins were facilitated by the Jirang Farmer Producer Company (FPC) in Ri0Bhoi.
“The initiative (of direct air cargo) represents a major step in integrating Meghalaya’s farmers with global markets while addressing longstanding logistical and economic challenges,” an official government press release stated today.
To promote the fruit sector, the state government is working with FPC’s like those of Jirang to market Meghalaya’s produce in lucrative markets.
The Jirang FPC, established under the Mission Organic Value Chain Development for the North Eastern Region (MOVCDNER) in 2017, has been at the forefront of these initiatives. Initially operating with manual processes, with the support of the state government, the FPC has transitioned to modernised infrastructure, including high-tech sorting, grading and waxing units. “These facilities, developed with government support, ensure that produce meets export quality standards, extends shelf life and enhances operational efficiency,” the release said.
Export activities began in 2022 with a trial shipment of 5 tonnes of Khasi mandarin and pineapples to the Middle East, supported by the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA). This grew to 20 tonnes of the fruits in 2023. This year’s consignment marks a breakthrough, as the state government leverages Guwahati Customs and Air India Cargo to reduce transportation costs and improve transit times.
