Singapore Receives First Air Cargo Shipment of Assam Fruits, Further Strengthening Bilateral Trade

In a groundbreaking move that marks a significant step forward in the bilateral trade relationship between India and Singapore, the Singapore High Commissioner to India, Simon Wong, announced the successful arrival of the first air cargo shipment of fruits from the northeastern Indian state of Assam to Singapore. This achievement has set the stage for a direct agro-export channel from the Northeast to Singapore, fostering economic growth and strengthening ties between the two nations.

Expressing his delight, High Commissioner Wong took to his social media platform 'X' to share the exciting news: "I am happy to announce the first air cargo shipment of fruits from Assam to Singapore. This will establish a direct agro-export source from the NE to Singapore. We thank Honorable Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma for this pioneer initiative. – HC Wong."

The Assam Chief Minister's office responded to the High Commissioner's announcement with its own post, detailing the variety of locally grown produce that had made its way to Singapore. "Assam-grown Pineapples, Kaji Lemons, Plums, Jackfruits, and Starfruits have directly reached markets in Singapore from Guwahati under a new air cargo link to boost agri-exports."

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Assam's prominence in fruit production is highlighted by the fact that in the year 2020-21, the state produced a remarkable 338.98 metric tons of Pineapples, accounting for 18.75% of India's total pineapple production and securing a second-place ranking in the country. This achievement follows Assam's successful debut in pineapple exports to Dubai in 2019.

In an additional development, earlier on the same day, India and Singapore jointly accomplished the first live paperless transaction using the Trade Trust platform. This achievement marks a significant advancement in digital connectivity between the two nations and underscores their commitment to embracing technological innovation in their trade practices.

High Commissioner Wong once again shared the milestone on his social media, remarking, "Following the India-Singapore Ministerial Roundtable & the meeting with PM Modi, we have piloted the first live paperless transaction using the Trade Trust platform. Another milestone in digital connect between Singapore & India - HC Wong."

The successful transaction took place subsequent to the India-Singapore Ministerial Roundtable and a meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The deep-rooted relationship between India and Singapore dates back to the early years of Singapore's independence in 1965. Their alliance is built upon shared economic and political interests, which are clearly evident in the numerous agreements concluded between the two nations. These agreements not only reflect their growing cooperation but also provide a comprehensive framework for collaboration spanning government activities, business endeavours, and people-to-people exchanges.

This recent accomplishment, with the arrival of Assam fruits in Singapore and the pioneering paperless trade transaction, underscores the dynamic and flourishing partnership between India and Singapore. As both nations continue to explore new avenues for cooperation, their shared commitment to mutual growth and development remains unwavering.

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