After colourful flowers and lip-smacking fruits, vegetables from the four southern States have begun attracting agri-exporters, with encouraging exports to the Gulf and Europe. Green chillies, okra ( bhindi ), curry leaf and beans are hot favourites for importers.

The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) is in the process of quantifying value of exports from vegetables clusters that are operational in Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka.

“APEDA is promoting four clusters each in the four southern States to make the region [a] hub for vegetable exports,” Mr R. Ravindra, Assistant General Manager, in charge for Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh told Business Line .

In Andhra Pradesh, APEDA is promoting clusters in Rangareddy, Medak, Visakhapatnam and Nizamabad.

Good alternative

While agreeing that exports of mangoes and grapes faced challenges, he pointed out that vegetables could be a good alternative for farmers. APEDA intends to identify other potential markets for Indian vegetables. “We will take inputs from experts and exporters and advise farmers what varieties to grow to suit the market needs in the markets abroad,” he said.

The Central agency, which works under the Ministry of Commerce, is in the process of quantifying value of vegetable exports. “After compiling details, we will sell the idea to exporters who have good networks abroad,” Mr Ravindra said.

He held a meeting here on Tuesday with agri-exporters, farmers and officials of the State Horticulture Department to take stock of the situation and take suggestions to improve exports.

“We welcome project proposals from stakeholders on building good ecosystem for promoting exports. We will clear them within 15-20 days after studying them,” Mr Ravindra said.

kurmanath@thehindu.co.in

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