The article begins with news of Bangladesh taking the lead as the most popular destination for Indian pomegranate exports. Over a few years, Bangladesh has shown considerable interest in this tropical fruit, and in the last fiscal year (2020-2021), more than half of India’s total shipment of 68,502.9 tonnes of pomegranates was sent to Bangladesh.
Background: The Cultivation and Global Export of Pomegranates
Pomegranate, scientifically known as Punica granatum, thrives in tropical and subtropical climates across the globe; but it also shows good growth under semi-arid environments. It can survive at altitudes of up to 500 meters above sea level, provided there is access to irrigation to withstand hot, dry summers and cold winters. Indian regions with these conditions, such as Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Gujarat, are significant producers of the fruit.
Unfortunately, over recent years, the export volume of Indian pomegranates has remained stagnant at approximately 50,000 to 60,000 tonnes. This stagnation is due to growing concerns about the quality of the fruit, which has started to overshadow its potential growth.
While the European Union is a major consumer of pomegranates, where the fruit commands high prices, their strict standards for fruit quality have been hard to meet by Indian exporters. This non-availability of export-quality fruit has resulted in a gradual loss of the European market to Indian exporters.
Why Bangladesh is Flourishing as an Export Destination
The rise in the export of pomegranates to Bangladesh can be attributed to various factors. Firstly, transportation to Bangladesh from India is comparatively easier than getting the produce to European countries. Moreover, Bangladesh’s import norms are more relaxed than those of the EU, making it a more approachable market for Indian growers.
The persistently available export avenue to Bangladesh has also helped maintain a steady flow of shipments. Unlike the European market, which has a specific season, the exports to Bangladesh can continue year-round. This flexibility allows Indian growers to send their produce to Bangladesh even when the European season comes to an end.
Conclusion
The shift in the Indian pomegranate export destination from the European Union to Bangladesh is an interesting development. It speaks volumes about the impact of quality standards, ease of transportation, import norms, and seasonal availability on global trading patterns. As Bangladesh continues to grow as a prominent consumer of Indian pomegranates, it offers valuable insights into maximizing export potential by adapting to different market conditions and requirements.
Source: IE
