FRUITS

India is the largest producer of fruits in the world. The annual production was estimated to be 58.7 million tonnes (2005-06) from 5.51 million ha, accounting for about 10% of the world production. The share ranges from 4% for citrus fruits to 40% for mangoes. Fruit production in India is practiced over an area of 5.51 million ha. Thus the average productivity for fruits in India was 10.7 MT in 2005-06. It however, contributes only 1% of the export earnings from agricultural products.

Major fruits cutilvated in kerala include Pineapple, Banana, Mango, Jack fruit and Papaya. Area under fruit cultivation in Kerala was estimated to be 2.24 lakh ha with a production of 14 million tonnes.

India's share in global exports of fruits is less than 5%. Export of fruits from India is mainly confined to neighbouring countries and Middle East. However, global imports are forecast to reach 4.3 million tonnes by 2010 with 87% destined from developed countries. The demand for Indian fruits is growing. European Union is expected to remain the world largest import market, followed by United states.

Fruits
	Banana		Mango		Pineapple
	Watermelon

Last updated: 13-06-2008