Mumbai, Mar 26: Having imported fruits from all over the world for over 50 years, domestic firm IG International has entered the exports business by shipping grapes to Europe, Russia and South Asian countries.
"After success in the import business, we wanted to set up our own export division to sell high-quality produce overseas.
"Initially, we have shipped grapes to Europe, Russia and South Asian countries. We are targeting to export over 5,000 tonnes of grapes and bananas by the next financial year," IG International Director Tarun Arora told PTI.
Currently, the Mumbai-based company has already shipped over 1,000 tonnes.
"We are looking at initially procuring bananas and grapes on the spot from farmers. From next year, we are planning to enter contract farming, where the farmers will follow company-specific norms to comply with standards of many countries," he added.
IG International, he said, is looking at markets like the South East Asia, the Middle East, Europe, Far East and Sri Lanka as lucrative destinations with huge potential for Indian produce.
"We have begun exporting to a few countries, but going forward, we want to strengthen our presence and expand footprint. We see South East Asia, the Middle East, Europe, Far East, Sri Lanka regions as lucrative markets to export Indian produce," Arora said.
The company is also looking at expanding its portfolio of fruits, he said.
"We are exploring horticultural produces like onions potatoes, mango through air, tender coconut and dragon fruit among others for exports," he added.
IG International imports fresh produce from 22 countries and has handling capacities of over 31 varieties of fruits.
Arora said, the company is eyeing over 20 per cent growth in sales at Rs 600 crore in the next financial year, from Rs 500 crore estimated in 2016-17.
He said in imports, the companys basket is almost full, however, it is mulling bringing in persimmon, a subtropical fruit, from Spain to the Indian dining table.
Source: indiatoday.intoday.in