In a major milestone for Himachal Pradesh’s horticulture sector, Revenue and Horticulture Minister Jagat Singh Negi today flagged off the first export consignment of cherries and plums to Oman from Chandigarh via air cargo.
The shipment comprises 400 kg each of cherries and plums, sourced from six progressive farmers of Jadol-Tikkar and Bagi areas in Shimla district, marking the state’s entry into new international fruit markets.
The Minister said the Middle East and Gulf countries are emerging as key destinations for Himachal’s horticultural produce, opening new opportunities for stone fruit exports and better returns for farmers. He urged growers to focus on quality production aligned with global standards to strengthen the state’s identity in overseas markets.
Negi added that this is only the beginning, with plans to expand exports to apples and other horticultural crops in the future. The Himachal Pradesh Horticultural Produce Marketing and Processing Corporation (HPMC) will continue to support orchardists in tapping global markets.
The initiative has been undertaken by HPMC in collaboration with APEDA under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry. HPMC handled grading, packaging and quality testing with APEDA’s support, ensuring smooth export facilitation, while air cargo ensured freshness and premium quality.
Earlier, APEDA and HPMC had organised a workshop in Theog on June 7, 2026, where plans for stone fruit exports to the Middle East were discussed, paving the way for today’s inaugural shipment.
Nurturing Creativity – Keekli Charitable Trust, Shimla
