Kashmir’s premium cherries make historic debut in Middle East markets

A premium commercial consignment of cherries from Jammu and Kashmir has reached markets in Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates for the first time, marking a new chapter in the global journey of the Union Territory’s high-value produce.

The exported cherries were carefully hand-picked, graded, and packed in temperature-controlled conditions before being airlifted to Gulf markets.

The successful shipment is being hailed as a milestone in India’s agricultural exports, with Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal taking to social media to highlight the achievement.

“So much to CHEER! The first commercial consignment of premium cherries from Jammu and Kashmir heads to Saudi Arabia and the UAE,” he posted on X. “A huge market opens up for our cherry farmers, who will now get a better price for their produce”

The premium cherry consignment is part of an expanding export strategy aimed at tapping into high-value international markets for niche agricultural products. Kashmir, known for its apples, walnuts, and saffron, also produces some of the finest cherries in the country.

With approximately 2,800 hectares under cherry cultivation, the Valley contributes about 90 per cent to India’s total cherry output, with districts like Baramulla, Shopian, Ganderbal and Srinagar being the major producers. The region yields around 12,000 metric tonnes of cherries annually.

However, the cherry industry in Kashmir has long faced challenges, chiefly due to the fruit’s extremely limited shelf life—just 5 to 7 days under normal conditions. This perishability, coupled with inadequate cold storage infrastructure, has traditionally restricted the market to local and domestic consumers.

Growers in Kashmir have welcomed the move. “We’ve seen good rates in domestic markets, but international exports offer the potential for premium pricing,” said Abdul Majeed, a cherry farmer from Tangmarg. “If this becomes a regular feature, it can revolutionize cherry farming in the Valley.”

“Cherries are among the most delicate fruits. Reaching an international market like Saudi Arabia without spoilage means the post-harvest and logistical systems are being upgraded, and that’s a game-changer,” he said.

Industry insiders believe the move could also catalyze infrastructural improvements. “Export potential will incentivize investments in cold storage, sorting and grading units, and air cargo facilities,” said a leading fruit exporter.

For now, cherry growers in Kashmir are celebrating what they hope is the start of a new era.

“This export isn’t just about a few boxes of cherries. It’s about recognition, value addition, and internationalizing our struggle to grow world-class fruit,” said a grower in Shopian.