Fresh apricots from India’s Kargil district in Ladakh have been introduced to Saudi Arabian consumers for the first time, marking a significant milestone in India-Saudi agricultural trade relations. The launch took place at Lulu Hypermarket in Riyadh during India’s 79th Independence Day celebrations.
Indian Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Dr. Suhel Ajaz Khan officially unveiled the premium fruit products as part of the government’s One District One Product initiative, which promotes unique regional specialties from across India. The launch ceremony was integrated into the broader “India Utsav” festivities commemorating the nation’s independence.
Speaking at the launch event, Ambassador Khan emphasized the significance of bringing fresh produce from one of India’s northernmost regions to Saudi markets. The high-altitude apricots from Kargil, known for their distinctive flavor and quality, represent the diversity of Indian agricultural products now available to international consumers.
The initiative involved collaboration between the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority of India and Lulu Hypermarket, one of the region’s largest retail chains. Ambassador Khan praised both organizations for facilitating this agricultural trade partnership and assured continued government support for similar joint ventures between Indian producers and Saudi retailers.
The Independence Day celebration also featured the launch of numerous other Indian products at the hypermarket, drawing substantial attendance from both Saudi nationals and the expatriate community. The event reflects growing commercial ties between India and Saudi Arabia, particularly in the agricultural and food processing sectors.The Kargil apricot launch represents the latest success story of India’s One District One Product scheme, which aims to promote unique local products on international markets while supporting regional economies and traditional agricultural practices.
