Ladakh is dispatching its first fresh apricot consignment to the United Arab Emirates on 14 July 2026 under a 1,000 metric tonne export initiative linked to a memorandum of understanding with Lulu Retail.
GI‑Tagged Varieties
- Raktsey Karpo: GI‑tagged apricot variety from Ladakh.
- Halman: Local Ladakhi apricot variety included in the export plan.
Trade Arrangement
- Export target: 1,000 metric tonnes under the MoU with Lulu Retail.
- Previous exports: About 1,500 kg exported over the prior two years.
- Procurement model: Lulu Retail to buy directly from farmers and handle processing, packaging and marketing.
Institutions and Logistics
- APEDA: Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority involved in the arrangement.
- Ministry: Ministry of Food Processing Industries associated with export facilitation.
- Logistics: Dedicated cargo aircraft from Delhi planned for the inaugural consignment to the UAE.
- Buyer: Lulu Group is a UAE‑based retail conglomerate responsible for overseas marketing.
IASPOINT Booster Facts
- GI law: Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999 governs GI protection in India.
- TRIPS: TRIPS Article 22(1) defines a GI as a sign indicating goods’ geographical origin with specific quality or reputation.
- GI Registry: Controller General of Patents, Designs and Trademarks (GI Registry) is based in Chennai under DPIIT.