Meghalaya is quickly becoming a key player in global horticulture. The state’s organic pineapples are now being exported to Dubai, a move that signals a big leap forward. With this milestone, Meghalaya has joined the global map of premium organic produce.
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Dubai Welcomes Meghalaya Pineapples
The Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Department of Meghalaya recently exported its first pineapple shipment to Dubai. In partnership with the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), the shipment was sent from Guwahati Airport.
Agriculture Minister Ampareen Lyngdoh flagged off the event. She credited local farmers for producing world-class organic fruits and stated that the move would open up bigger markets. In her words, sending Meghalaya pineapples to Dubai is not just about trade—it’s about building the state’s brand globally.
What Makes Meghalaya’s Pineapples Unique
These pineapples come from the Ri Bhoi and East Khasi Hills districts. The farmers grow the Kew variety, which is known for its size, sweetness, and aroma. Thanks to Meghalaya’s climate, the fruits grow naturally without chemical pesticides or fertilizers.
Moreover, the pineapples have received a Geographical Indication (GI) tag. This ensures that the fruit is recognized worldwide for its distinct taste and origin.
Farmers Benefit from Global Exposure
More than 10,000 farmers in the state grow pineapples. With this export breakthrough, they now have access to better pricing and larger markets. As a result, incomes are set to rise.
The state government is actively supporting them with training in packaging and international standards. These steps ensure quality control and improve the farmers’ skills.
Additionally, Meghalaya pineapples in Dubai give farmers a strong reason to move from traditional farming to high-value crops.
Government Support Drives Export Growth
The export success is a result of coordinated work between state officials, APEDA, and farmer producer organizations (FPOs). Together, they developed supply chains, improved cold storage, and met food safety standards.
Furthermore, the government is promoting Meghalaya’s produce at global expos. These events help connect with international buyers and build lasting trade relations.
Thanks to these efforts, demand from other regions like the Middle East and Southeast Asia is now growing.
Meghalaya’s Rise as a Horticulture Leader
Meghalaya aims to be more than just a pineapple exporter. The state is also promoting organic oranges, turmeric, ginger, and kiwi. This diversified strategy helps the state reach more global markets.
Under the Mission Organic Value Chain Development for North Eastern Region (MOVCDNER), the government has brought thousands of hectares under organic cultivation. It is also focusing on farm-to-market models to ensure sustainability.
By building a solid supply chain, Meghalaya is setting a high standard for other states to follow.
What’s Next After Dubai
The success of Meghalaya pineapples in Dubai is just the beginning. The government now plans to export to Qatar, Oman, and Singapore. It is also exploring opportunities in processed fruit and organic juice exports.
To support this, branding efforts are being scaled up. Soon, “Meghalaya” may become a known name in the international organic section of supermarkets.
This move could inspire other Northeastern states to join the organic export movement, using their natural advantages.
The journey of Meghalaya pineapples in Dubai reflects the state’s growing strength in organic agriculture. With a strong focus on quality, sustainability, and farmer empowerment, Meghalaya is on track to become a global horticulture brand.
Through better logistics, global outreach, and government support, the state is unlocking a new future for its farmers and its economy. As this success story unfolds, it sets a strong example for India’s entire Northeast region.
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