The Growing Global Demand for Indian Drumsticks: Why Importers Prefer Indian Produce
Indian agricultural products have gained global recognition for their natural flavour, high nutritional value, and consistent quality. Among these, drumsticks have become one of the most in-demand vegetables in international markets, especially in the UAE. Whether it is Indian households abroad or restaurants preparing South Indian, Sri Lankan, and Middle Eastern dishes, drumsticks remain a staple ingredient.
Interestingly, the rising global popularity of Indian drumsticks is not just due to taste. Importers increasingly prefer Indian produce because of its long shelf life, strong aroma, medicinal value, and reliable supply chain. As demand continues to grow, exporters are exploring opportunities and learning how to export drumstick from India efficiently to meet international expectations.
This blog explains why Indian drumsticks are so popular globally, why UAE importers choose India over other countries, and what makes exporting drumsticks a profitable business for Indian suppliers.
Why Drumsticks Are in High Demand Globally
The demand for drumsticks has seen significant growth in recent years due to several factors:
- Highly Nutritious and Medicinally Rich
Drumsticks are packed with vitamins, antioxidants, iron, and essential nutrients. They are known to support immunity, digestion, and overall wellness.
As global consumers become more health-conscious, nutrient-rich vegetables like drumsticks continue to gain popularity, especially in premium markets like Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
- Versatile Ingredient Across Cuisines
Although drumsticks are traditionally used in Indian curries, sambhar, poriyal, and chutneys, they are now gaining acceptance in Middle Eastern and Western cuisines.
Chefs use them in soups, broths, herbal drinks, and fusion dishes. This versatility makes drumsticks a valuable import item for supermarkets, restaurants, and food distributors.
- Rising Indian and Asian Population Abroad
Countries like the UAE have a strong Indian, Pakistani, Bangladeshi, and Sri Lankan community. Drumsticks are a regular part of their diet, and importers must ensure consistent supply throughout the year.
Since India can produce drumsticks year-round, it becomes the most reliable source.
Why Importers Prefer Drumsticks from India
There are multiple reasons why international buyers prefer sourcing drumsticks from India over other Asian and African countries.
- Superior Quality and Freshness
Due to India’s favourable climate, drumsticks grown in various states such as Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, and Gujarat have:
- Rich green colour
- Firm texture
- Longer shelf life
- Strong natural aroma
Importers value these qualities because they ensure freshness during long-distance shipments.
- Cost-Effective and Consistently Available
India is one of the world’s largest producers of drumsticks, making it possible to supply large quantities at competitive prices.
For UAE markets, this affordability is important because retailers and horeca suppliers prefer products that offer good value without compromising on quality.
- Efficient Export Infrastructure
India has a strong agricultural export ecosystem supported by:
- APEDA certification
- Cold chain logistics
- Well-equipped ports
- Fast customs clearance for perishable goods
These factors make it easier for exporters to ship drumsticks quickly and safely.
- Trust and Reliability Built Over Decades
UAE buyers have been importing fruits and vegetables from India for many years.
This long-standing relationship ensures trust, transparency, and smooth business operations. Importers know that Indian exporters maintain quality standards and follow proper documentation practices.
Growing Demand in the UAE Market
The UAE depends heavily on imported vegetables due to limited agricultural land. Indian drumsticks have become a preferred choice because:
- They stay fresh for longer when stored properly
- They withstand shipment conditions
- Indian exporters supply consistent volumes
- Prices remain competitive compared to other markets
As a result, drumsticks are prominently available in UAE supermarkets, Indian grocery stores, hotels, and restaurants.
How Exporters Can Meet Rising Demand
As demand increases, exporters must focus on quality, consistency, and compliance.
Those trying to understand how to export drumstick from India should follow a clear process that includes:
- Registering with APEDA
- Obtaining a phytosanitary certificate
- Ensuring proper cleaning, sorting, and grading
- Using ventilated, food-grade packaging
- Maintaining cold chain logistics
- Ensuring timely dispatch to UAE ports
Exporters who follow these steps can build long-term partnerships with UAE importers and expand their business in the region.
How Harvest Food Exim Supports the Global Drumstick Supply Chain
At Harvest Food Exim, we specialise in exporting premium-quality drumsticks from India to countries like the UAE.
We ensure:
- Fresh, uniform, pesticide-safe produce
- Expert grading and sorting
- Hygienic packing
- Fast processing and dispatch
- Compliance with all quality and safety certifications
Our focus on reliability and long-term client satisfaction has made us a trusted name in the global fresh produce market.
