APEDA facilitates first export of frozen French fries from Uttarakhand to Iraq
UPSC / SSC current affairs note · Economy
Why in news
APEDA has facilitated the first export of 24 metric tonnes of frozen French fries from Kashipur, Uttarakhand to Iraq. This marks a significant step in boosting value-added agricultural exports from a landlocked state and strengthening India's processed food export sector.
Background
India has been steadily enhancing its position as a global supplier of processed agricultural products. APEDA works under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry to promote exports of agricultural and processed food products.
Key facts
First export of 24 MT frozen French fries from Uttarakhand to Iraq, facilitated by APEDA.
Exporter: Veerun Global Trade Private Limited, based in Kashipur, Udham Singh Nagar district.
APEDA supported participation in international trade fairs: SIAL, Gulfood, Indusfood, and World Food India.
In 2025-26, India's processed vegetable exports reached $932.25 million (7,26,874.70 MT).
Value-added potato product exports: 277,108.51 MT valued at $289.40 million.
Processed fruits and vegetables contributed about 10% of APEDA's scheduled exports in 2025-26.
APEDA Chairman Abhishek Dev highlighted logistics cost challenges for landlocked states like Uttarakhand.
APEDA is collaborating with Uttarakhand government on State Agriculture Export Policy including transport assistance.
Prelims pointers
- APEDA: Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority
- Ministry of Commerce and Industry
- Uttarakhand: Udham Singh Nagar district, Kashipur
- Iraq: export destination
- SIAL, Gulfood, Indusfood, World Food India: international trade fairs
- 2025-26: processed vegetable exports $932.25 million
- Value-added potato exports: 277,108.51 MT, $289.40 million
Mains angles
- Role of APEDA in promoting agricultural exports from landlocked states
- Value addition in agriculture and its impact on farmer income
- Challenges of logistics and transport subsidies for export competitiveness
- Government schemes for processed food export promotion