The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), under the Ministry of Commerce & Industry, Government of India, has facilitated the first export of 24 tonnes of Frozen French Fries from Kashipur in Udham Singh Nagar district of Uttarakhand to Iraq. The consignment was exported by Virun Global Trade Pvt. Ltd. and marks a significant milestone in promoting value-added agricultural exports from Uttarakhand while strengthening India's processed food export basket.
The exporter expressed confidence that the product quality would lead to repeat orders and long-term business relationships in international markets, creating sustained export opportunities. APEDA has supported the exporter's participation in leading international trade exhibitions including SIAL, Gulfood, IndusFood and World Food India, enabling greater market outreach and buyer engagement.
During 2025-26, India's exports of processed vegetables reached USD 932.25 million, comprising 726,874.70 metric tonnes. Value-added potato products specifically accounted for exports of 277,108.51 metric tonnes valued at USD 289.40 million. Processed fruits and vegetables together contributed nearly 10 percent of APEDA's scheduled exports during the year.
APEDA Chairman Abhishek Dev stated that logistics costs continue to influence the competitiveness of exports from landlocked states such as Uttarakhand. APEDA is working closely with the Government of Uttarakhand on the formulation and implementation of the State Agri Export Policy, including provisions for transport assistance to improve export competitiveness and facilitate greater market access for exporters.
The expanding processed food industry in Uttarakhand is creating stronger market opportunities across the agricultural value chain by generating sustained demand for quality raw produce, promoting value addition at source, and encouraging greater participation in export-oriented supply chains. These initiatives are expected to enhance farmers' incomes through improved market access while boosting the state's processed food exports. APEDA continues to work with State Governments, exporters, Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), processors and other stakeholders to strengthen export infrastructure and facilitate access to global markets.