APEDA catapults agricultural exports from USD 0.6 billion exports in FY1987-88 to USD 26.7 billion in FY 2022-23
APEDA's 38th Foundation Day marks agricultural export expansion milestone
From its modest beginnings with annual exports of USD 0.6 billion in
exports during 1987-88, proactive interventions by the Agricultural and
Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) have taken
agricultural exports to a remarkable figure of USD 26.7 billion in the fiscal
year 2022-23. This journey of exponential growth is underscored by expanding
the export basket to over 200 countries, showcasing a commendable Compound
Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 12%.
In the fiscal period 2022-23, India's agricultural exports reached USD
53.1 billion, with APEDA contributing a significant 51% of India’s
Agri-exports. In the period April-December, 2023, among the 23 Principal
Commodities (PCs) in APEDA's export basket, 18 exhibited positive growth.
Notably, 13 out of 15 large PCs, with exports exceeding USD 100 million in the
previous year, experienced positive growth, with an average growth rate of 12%.
Fresh fruits emerged as a standout performer, registering a remarkable growth
of 29%. Moreover, the export of processed vegetables surged by 24% in the
period followed by Miscellaneous processed items, Basmati Rice, and Fresh
Vegetables also saw substantial growth compared to the corresponding period
last year. Notably, India has significantly expanded its fresh fruits export
footprint, now serving 111 countries compared to 102 destinations in the
previous year.
On its 38th Foundation Day on 13.02.2024, APEDA commemorated a
remarkable journey of fostering agricultural exports, culminating in
significant milestones and unprecedented growth. Founded in 1986 with the
mission to promote the export of agricultural products, APEDA has evolved into a
pivotal force in catapulting India's agricultural exports to new heights.
During April-November 2023, several key commodities witnessed
substantial growth compared to the previous year, like, Bananas: 63%, Lentils
(dried and shelled): 110%, Fresh eggs: 160% and Kesar and Dussehri Mango: 120%
and 140%, respectively.
During the period from April to December 2023, the export value of
Basmati rice surged by 19%, reaching USD 3.97 billion compared to USD 3.33
billion in the previous year. Simultaneously, the quantity of exports witnessed
a notable growth of 11%, increasing from 31.98 lakh metric tons to 35.43 lakh
metric tons within the same timeframe. Basmati rice found its way to the top
markets, with Iran, Iraq, Saudi Arabia, the USA, and the UAE emerging as the
top five destinations for these exports. This robust performance underscores
the enduring popularity and global demand for Basmati rice, further solidifying
its position as a major agricultural product in India's export portfolio.