Exports of fruits and vegetables from India saw an 11 percent increase in value to $1.8 billion during the financial year 2023-24, despite a 10 percent decline in volume to 3.91 million tons. Floriculture exports also rose by eight percent to $208 million, with a slight decrease in volume to 34,132 tons, as reported by the Agricultural And Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (Apeda). Hyderabad International Airport has witnessed a 25 percent growth in the export of fruits and vegetables in the first half of FY2024-25, according to Pradeep Panicker, CEO of Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (RGIA). Poultry exports, notably hatching eggs, resumed during this period with a volume exceeding 800 tons. This growth is attributed to the addition of new exporters and the advanced infrastructure at GMR Aero Cargo Logistics Terminal.
Adani Airports experienced a six percent growth in perishable cargo handling during H1FY2025. The airports in Mumbai, Ahmedabad, and Lucknow are notable for their support in perishable exports, with significant movements of vegetable, meat, and mango shipments. Maersk reported varied performance across its portfolio, with strong momentum in banana exports and a positive outlook for the frozen processed potato business. The company is optimistic about its upcoming cold storage facility at Maasvlakte within Rotterdam Port.
Cathay Cargo saw a 50 percent increase in handling volume in 2024 compared to 2023, with significant exports of fruits, vegetables, and chilled fish from India. Etihad Cargo reported a 19 percent growth in perishables tonnage from India in the first half of FY2024-25, driven by demand for its FreshForward services. Hyderabad Airport's export terminal is equipped with temperature-controlled facilities, and plans are underway to upgrade its domestic terminal to a dedicated perishables terminal. Etihad Cargo is expanding its cool chain infrastructure, while Adani Airports offers an annual capacity of over 140,000 tons for perishable consignments.
Hyderabad Airport collaborates with regulatory bodies to ensure compliance with international trade standards. Technology plays a crucial role in managing perishable products, with advanced monitoring systems and IoT devices enhancing efficiency and reliability. Sustainability is addressed through optimized refrigeration systems, green building practices, and sustainable packaging materials. Adani Airports and Cathay Cargo are implementing measures to reduce environmental impact, while Etihad Cargo promotes the use of recyclable materials and route optimization for sustainable operations.