India achieved a major milestone in its agricultural exports with the successful first ever trial shipment of pomegranates to Australia via sea, an official statement confirmed on Monday. This marks a crucial step in expanding market access for Indian produce while optimising costs compared to air freight. Until now, pomegranate exports to Australia were primarily carried out via air due to lower volumes and varying ripening periods. However, after India’s successful market access agreement for pomegranates, a work plan and standard operating procedures (SOPs) were finalised in February 2024. A press release by the ministry of commerce revealed that the first air shipment took place in July 2024 to assess demand, paving the way for more cost-effective sea shipments.
