Exporting fruits and vegetables from India to UAE is a growing business, as the demand for fresh and high-quality produce continues to increase in the Middle East. India is known for its diverse range of fruits and vegetables, including tropical fruits like coconut and onions which are in high demand in the UAE.
It is, however, a challenging and complex process to export fruits and vegetables from India to UAE, with many factors to consider, including regulations, logistics, and freight forwarding. In this blog, we will discuss the key considerations when exporting fruits and vegetables from India to UAE. We will especially be talking about the international trade of coconuts and onions, and how freight forwarders help cut through the chaos and provide efficiency.
We have curated a list of everything you need to know. Check out our handbook:
A Handy Manual for Fruit & Vegetable Export From India to UAE
Here are a few steps for you to consider and read up on when you’re taking shipping decisions for fruit and vegetable distribution:
1. Understanding regulations & requirements
Exporting fruits and vegetables from India to UAE requires compliance with a range of regulations and requirements, including phytosanitary requirements, food safety regulations, and labeling requirements. It’s important to research and understand these regulations and requirements, and to work with a freight forwarder who is familiar with these regulations.
2. Obtaining the necessary certifications
Exporting fruits and vegetables from India to UAE also requires obtaining certifications such as the Phytosanitary Certificate, issued by the Plant Quarantine Department of India. This certificate ensures that the produce is free from pests and diseases. Additionally, the Consignee in UAE should also have the necessary import licenses and permits from the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment.
3. Meeting the quality standards
UAE has strict quality standards for imported fruits and vegetables. It is important to ensure that the produce that you are freight forwarding meets the right quality standards. This includes ensuring that the produce is fresh, free from pests and diseases, and properly packaged and labeled.
4. Choosing the right mode of transportation
Choosing the right mode of transportation is crucial for ensuring that the fruits and vegetables arrive at their destination in good condition. Air freight is often the best option for perishable goods, while sea freight is more cost-effective for larger quantities. It’s important to work with a freight forwarder that can provide a range of transportation options and present the best offers for trade.
5. Importing coconut from India
Coconut is one of the most important agricultural products of India and is in high demand in UAE. India is the third-largest coconut-producing country in the world, and it exports coconut products to various countries. However, exporting coconut from India to UAE requires complying with the regulations of the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) and the Dubai Municipality.
6. Importing onion from India
India is the second-largest producer of onions in the world, and it exports onions to various countries including UAE. However, exporting onions from India to UAE requires complying with the regulations of the National Centre for Good Aquaculture Practices (NCGAP) and the Dubai Municipality.
7. The role of freight forwarding
Freight forwarding plays a crucial role in exporting fruits and vegetables from India to UAE. Freight forwarders handle the logistics of shipping, including arranging for the appropriate mode of transport, customs clearance, and delivery to the final destination. Furthermore, they can provide warehousing, packaging, and labeling services, which ensures that the produce meets the quality standards of the destination country.
8. Choosing the right freight forwarder
Choosing the right freight forwarder is essential for ensuring that your fruits and vegetables are handled efficiently and cost-effectively. It’s important to choose a freight forwarder with experience and expertise in handling fruits and vegetables, and one who has experience in shipping to the UAE. Additionally, the freight forwarder should have a wide range of contacts and partnerships.
Ninja Global can help Indian exporters to comply with the regulations, Find verified freight forwarders and access the most credible importers internationally.
If you are looking to export your product and have an Import-Export license avail Ninja Global’s freight forwarding services today.
