Kerala To Foray Into Pineapple Export In Big Way (16-Feb-2010)
Kerala which is famous for its export of cash crops, is now eyeing to enter into export of pineapple.
The award of geographical indication certificate for pineapple grown in Vazhakkulam and opening of an integrated pineapple pack house by NAPCL (Nadukkara Agro Processing Company Ltd.) where pineapple farmers owns 70 % which will help the state to export significant quantities of pineapple. Currently, exports of pineapple from Kerala are in very small numbers.
The pineapple grown in the Vazhakkulam is characterised by special fragrance, sweetness and low acidity which contributes more than 50 % of the total pineapple production of around 3 lakh tonne in the state. The granting of GI certificate will help in branding it as Vazhakkulam pineapple abroad.
NAPCL's integrated pineapple pack house is expected to increase the shelf life of the fruit while exporting.
Mr. K Sasikumar, MD of NAPCL said as per the international standards, the pack house will provide facilities for pre-cooling as well as grading and sorting, washing, pre-treatment and packing, which will help in extending the shelf life of pineapple to one month. Mainly, the company is looking at exporting pineapple to the Gulf countries, where it takes nearly 8 days to reach. Moreover, NAPCL will also allow the other companies interested in exporting pineapple to use its facilities.
The pack house was established at a cost of Rs. 3.65 crore and was funded by the Central government agency APEDA, where it has the capacity for packing 200 tonne of fresh pineapple a day. In its first year of operation, NAPCL is expecting to utilize at least 30 % of the capacity. Currently, the lack of such facilities requires the product to be exported by air cargo, which is expensive.
Mr. Sasikumar said the company is in the process of negotiating with the buyers in the Gulf. The company is seeking for measures to keep the export prices steady. He said the export is likely to commence from next financial year.
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