CNN Central News & Network-ITDC India Epress/ITDC News Dehradun: India has sent the first consignment of fresh Uttarakhand litchi to Italy, opening a new European market for premium fruit from the state. The shipment moved from Dehradun on 18 June 2026 and marks a fresh export route for Himalayan horticulture.
The inaugural consignment carried one metric tonne of fresh litchi. The move is expected to strengthen India’s presence in international fresh fruit markets while giving Uttarakhand growers better access to high-value buyers outside the country.
Dehradun litchi is known for its sweetness, red colour, aroma and pulp quality. The state’s favourable growing conditions across Dehradun, Haridwar, Nainital and Udham Singh Nagar support varieties such as Rose Scented, Calcuttia and Bedana.
The export initiative has also improved returns for growers, with farmers receiving about 25 per cent higher prices than prevailing domestic market rates. The shipment was supported through coordination among export agencies, the Uttarakhand government, exporters, farmer producer organisations and logistics partners.
The development gives Indian fresh fruit exporters a wider European opening and underlines the importance of quality production, cold-chain handling and market development for farmers seeking better returns.
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