Export Competitiveness of Fresh Vegetables in India

Abstract

Total vegetable exports from India were around US$464 million in 2010–2011, including 2.12% of agricultural exports and 12.8% of horticultural exports. India is the second largest producer of vegetables in the world and 24th in export of vegetables. Major destinations of India’s fresh vegetable exports are the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Nepal, Sri Lanka, the United Kingdom, and Saudi Arabia, together accounting for 55% of total vegetable exports from India. This study was undertaken to determine export competitiveness, comparative advantage in exports, and market share of selected Indian-grown fresh vegetables. India has a comparative advantage in exporting onion (Allium cepa L.) and peas (Pisum sativum L.) compared to other vegetables. Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.), onion, and potato (S. tuberosum L.) formed the major portion of exported vegetables, constituting 45% of total area under vegetable cultivation and 50% of total vegetable production in India. Bangladesh was the most stable market for export of tomatoes from India. Maldives, Nepal, and Mauritius were stable markets for export of potato. The UAE and Bangladesh were stable markets for onion exports from India. India still has a huge potential to be utilized in fresh vegetable exports, particularly for cabbage (Brassica oleracea L. var. capitata), cauliflower (B. oleracea L. var. botrytis), tomato, and eggplant (S. melongena L.). New emerging markets can be encouraged and existing markets in Singapore, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and Mauritius strengthened.