Yesterday was a historic day for New Zealand – India fresh produce trade. APMC Vashi from Navi Mumbai unveiled the Rouge Apple from New Zealand for the very first time in India. “This moment will remain etched in the history of our fresh produce trade,” says Rohan Satish Ursal of Purander Highlights Farmers Producer Company.

This launch comes at the perfect time. A few months ago, Hon. Prime Minister Christopher Luxon of New Zealand visited India and engaged in extensive discussions with Hon. Prime Minister of India Shri. Narendra Modi where agriculture was placed at the forefront of bilateral cooperation. “This launch is a living example of how the vision shared by both the Prime Ministers — to strengthen agricultural trade between our nations — is already becoming reality.”

This journey began earlier this year when Satish Ursal was honored to be part of the Asia New Zealand Foundation’s first India delegation to New Zealand. “During those 15 days, I experienced first-hand the incredible potential of Indo–NZ collaboration.” With the guidance of New Zealand Trade & Enterprise (NZTE) — led by Hon. Mr. Graham Rouse, Consul General of New Zealand in India and Trade Commissioner for South Asia & India, and supported by Mr. Irfan Jaffer and Ms. Vrunda Sonawane —deep connections were forged with New Zealand growers.

© Rohan Satish Ursal

Those connections have now transformed into reality. With the support of global partners

BEARSLEY EXPORTS LIMITED, NZ Don Limon GmbH , Germany Scion Agricos, India and Satish Ursal’s family business, D B Ursal & Grandsons

Rouge Apple is now in the hands of Indian traders and consumers. Rouge Apple is more than just a product. With its bright red skin, crisp bite, and natural sweetness, it represents the spirit of partnership, resilience, and opportunity.

© Rohan Satish Ursal

Special thanks to Mr. Chandrakant Dhole (President, Fruit Traders Association), Mr. Sanjay Pansare (Director, APMC Vashi), Mr. Rajendra Konde, and to my father Mr. Satish Ursal for gracing the occasion and blessing this new chapter.

“As the fourth generation of my family carrying forward a 120-year-old fruit legacy, I feel proud that we are not just importing apples — we are building bridges of trust and trade between India, New Zealand, and the world,” commented Satish Ursal. The future of Indo–NZ fresh produce trade looks brighter than ever.

© Rohan Satish Ursal






Publication date:

Fri 5 Sep 2025