Lulu Retail ships Kashmir cherries to Saudi Arabia and Dubai

Srinagar: Lulu Retail today flagged off its first-ever consignment of premium-quality Kashmiri cherries to Saudi Arabia and Dubai. The ceremonial event was held at the Agriculture Department’s Lal Mandi facility in Srinagar and marks a significant milestone in taking Kashmir’s fresh produce to international markets.

The event witnessed the presence of several dignitaries, including the Chairman of the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), Lulu Group Director Salim M.A., General Manager APEDA Vinita Sudhanshu, Director Agriculture Kashmir, Director Horticulture Planning & Marketing, and the Managing Director of Jammu and Kashmir Horticultural Produce Marketing and Processing Corporation (JKHPMC).

The cherry consignment underscores Kashmir’s potential in premium fruit exports. With Jammu & Kashmir producing approximately 2,000–3,000 tonnes of cherries annually, this shipment opens a gateway for regional growers to access high-value overseas markets, including the Gulf region.

Lulu Retail, a global retail powerhouse and part of the UAE-based Lulu Group International, operates over 250 hypermarkets and supermarkets across the Middle East, Asia, and beyond. This partnership signifies a major step toward establishing Kashmir as a consistent supplier of world-class produce to international retail shelves.

Speaking on the occasion, a spokesperson from the Department said, “This is a proud moment for our farmers and the entire horticulture sector in J&K. Exporting our cherries to international markets through a globally trusted brand like Lulu is a huge boost for the region.”

The initiative, supported by APEDA and the J&K Government, is expected to empower local farmers, boost their incomes, and create sustained global demand for Kashmiri horticultural products. It also aligns with India’s broader strategy to promote agricultural exports and the “Vocal for Local, Local to Global” campaign.

Fruit Master Agro Fresh, a leading agri-enterprise based in Kashmir, played a pivotal role in sorting, grading, and packing the cherry consignment to meet international quality standards. Their expertise and infrastructure ensured that the produce was export-ready, fresh, and met the rigorous requirements of overseas retail markets.