Indian Kiwi Exports Rising: The Arunachal Kiwi Project
Arunachal Pradesh has dispatched its first trial shipment of premium, organic kiwi to Dubai, UAE. This is a massive step for India because it will lead to Indian kiwi exports rising under the Arunachal Kiwi Project. The consignment includes 1.5 tonnes of premium kiwi to be featured at various LuLu Hypermarket LLC outlets in Dubai. This strategic move aims to introduce unique Indian-produced fruit in the international market, while establishing a consistent supply chain. Moreover, it will gauge market demand for Indian kiwi fruit.
The Arunachal Kiwi Project
The Arunachal Kiwi Project, or the Kiwi Mission: 2025-2035, is a multi-crore project by the Arunachal Government to boost the state’s kiwi sector. Although the mission was launched in September 2025, it hit a milestone on October 26, 2026, when 1.5 tonnes of kiwi were exported to Dubai. Beyond boosting kiwi production in the state and helping local producers, the mission has other objectives. These include infrastructure upgrades, cluster-based value chains, global branding and logistics, and more. Additionally, it aims to establish over 2,000 tonnes of cold chain storage capacity, processing units, and sorting facilities in the next few years.
However, to meet strict international market protocols, Indian farmers and producers need to upgrade product quality. Additionally, local producers must meet advanced certification requirements to export kiwi. To streamline the process and help rural producers, APEDA and the Union Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER) are working together.
Arunachal Kiwi dispatched to the Middle East
Arunachal produces over 50% of India’s total kiwi output and is therefore a very viable source of horticultural produce. The kiwis are grown in the high-altitude orchards of the Ziro Valley in the Lower Subansiri district. Despite this, the local farmers were actually suffering losses or very low margins. In response to this, Arunachal CM Pema Khandu launched the Kiwi Mission: 2025-2035. This is a clear reflection of the government’s intent to promote the export of our agricultural produce and to turn the agricultural potential of the state into real economic opportunity.
Demand for kiwi in the Middle East is increasing as markets shift toward healthier lifestyles. However, Dubai has no virtual kiwi production and must rely on kiwi imports to meet consumer demand. New Zealand is Dubai’s largest exporter of fresh kiwi, accounting for 45% of total imports. New Zealand’s kiwi harvest and export season runs from May to November, leaving a 5-month gap. To bridge this gap and meet consumer demand, Dubai actively sought more kiwi suppliers. As a result, Arunachal became a safety net for Dubai’s growing kiwi demand. Arunachal’s natural kiwi harvesting season runs from October to January, an off-season for New Zealand’s harvest.
Conclusion
The Indian government has recently introduced several agriculture-based missions to uplift rural farmers in Arunachal. One of these projects is the Arunachal Kiwi Project, which aims to increase kiwi production and exports from India. Furthermore, it will lead to a boost in the Indian economy while reducing the trade imbalance. A recent shipment of 1.5 tonnes of kiwi from Arunachal to Dubai became a starting point for this mission. It has opened doors for Indian kiwi in the international market.
This strategic move will undoubtedly help Indian producers and exporters to reach the international market and expand business. To ensure your products reach to the final destination safely, you need reliable import and export services. Falcon could be your import-export support partner. With more than 40 years of experience, our team offers a seamless trade journey. From freight forwarding and transportation to customs clearance and documentation requirements, we ensure the products reach your desired location without any hassle. You can contact our team at +91-9311595648 or email us at cargodeal@falconfreight.com to experience a smooth trade process.
