Uttarakhand’s renowned Doon Valley litchi has made its first entry into the European market with the export of a one-metric-ton consignment to Italy on June 18.

The shipment was facilitated by the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) in coordination with the Uttarakhand government, exporters, Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs), and logistics partners.

Doon Valley litchi is known for its sweetness, aroma, bright red colour, and high pulp quality. Major cultivation areas in Uttarakhand include Dehradun, Haridwar, Nainital, and Udham Singh Nagar districts. Popular varieties include Rose Scented, Calcuttia, and Bedana.

According to officials, farmers have received nearly 25 percent higher prices compared to prevailing domestic market rates following the export. The development is expected to promote quality-based production and encourage export-oriented horticulture practices.

In recent weeks, India has also seen increased exports of region-specific agricultural products, including Tezpur litchi from Assam being shipped to Dubai and Singapore.

Officials stated that this initiative could open new opportunities for other Uttarakhand products such as honey, kiwi, apples, rajma, and medicinal herbs in international markets.