The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) has facilitated the first export of 24 metric tonnes of frozen French fries from Kashipur in Uttarakhand’s Udham Singh Nagar district to Iraq. The consignment, exported by Virun Global Trade Pvt. Ltd., marks a significant step in promoting value-added agricultural exports from the state and strengthening India’s processed food export basket.
The export is expected to create new opportunities for processed food manufacturers in Uttarakhand and expand the state’s participation in international markets. APEDA has supported the exporter through participation in major global trade exhibitions, including SIAL, Gulfood, IndusFood and World Food India, helping strengthen market outreach and connect with overseas buyers.
The development also highlights the growing potential of value-added potato products in India’s agricultural export sector. During 2025-26, India exported 277,108.51 metric tonnes of value-added potato products worth USD 289.40 million, contributing to the country’s expanding processed food export portfolio.
APEDA Chairman Abhishek Dev noted that logistics costs remain a key challenge for exporters from landlocked states such as Uttarakhand. APEDA is working with the state government on the State Agri Export Policy, including transport assistance measures aimed at improving export competitiveness and facilitating greater access to international markets.
The first shipment of frozen French fries to Iraq is expected to encourage greater value addition, strengthen export-oriented supply chains and create sustained market opportunities for farmers, processors and exporters in Uttarakhand.