In a significant milestone for Indian agriculture, Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal announced that the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) has facilitated the first-ever air shipment of GI-tagged Indi Lime from Karnataka and Puliyankudi Lime from Tamil Nadu to the United Kingdom.
Calling it a “major boost to farmers,” Goyal said the achievement would empower cultivators, open new export avenues, and strengthen India’s agricultural presence in global markets. Earlier this year, APEDA had successfully exported three metric tons of GI-tagged Swadeshi Lime from Vijayapura, Karnataka, to the United Arab Emirates (UAE), marking another step toward global recognition of India’s regional specialties.
The Geographical Indication (GI) tag is awarded to products with unique qualities tied to their place of origin, ensuring authenticity and building international recognition. Swadeshi Indi Lime known for its strong aroma and tangy flavour, has now become part of India’s expanding portfolio of premium GI-tagged exports.
Beyond limes, India has recently seen exports of Gharwali apples and apricots from Kargil finding new markets in Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Qatar reflecting the growing global appeal of India’s distinct agri-products.
Meanwhile, Goyal also met Maros Sefcovic, European Union Commissioner for Trade and Economic Security, in Brussels to discuss progress on the India-EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA). Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to concluding a balanced and mutually beneficial pact that would further strengthen trade and economic relations.