The consignment comprising 8.7 metric tonnes (650 boxes) of MD 2 pineapples was flagged off by APEDA Chairman Abhishek Dev in the presence of senior officials of the organization and Indian Council of Agricultural Research – Central Coast Agricultural Research Institute (ICAR). CCARI).

Abhishek Dev said, "This is an important moment in India's agricultural export history, demonstrating our ability to produce and supply premium quality pineapple to global markets."

“The MD2 pineapple, also known as “golden ripe” or “super sweet,” has become the gold standard in the pineapple industry, with significant cultivation in countries such as Costa Rica, the Philippines and Thailand,” he said. "

ICAR CCARI provided the necessary technical assistance for development of post-harvest management and maritime protocols for MD2 pineapples produced in Sindhudurg district of Konkan region in Maharashtra. A private firm successfully grew this variety in 200 acres in partnership with local farmers, ensuring optimum quality and yield.

The harvested pineapples are carefully graded, sorted, packed and stored in Panvel, Navi Mumbai. From there, the consignment was taken to Jawaharlal Nehru Port Trust (JNPT) for onward journey to UAE.

This first trial shipment of MD2 pineapple marks a significant addition to APEDA's export basket, enhancing India's presence in the global market.