SINGAPORE
Agriculture Trade Between India and Singapore: A Growing Partnership in Peanut Exports
India and Singapore share a strong and evolving trade relationship, particularly in the agriculture sector. With India being one of the largest producers and exporters of agricultural commodities, and Singapore acting as a strategic trade hub in Southeast Asia, both nations are actively increasing collaboration in agri-trade. Among the most promising segments in this bilateral relationship is the peanut trade, which has seen consistent growth in recent years.
Overview of Agriculture Trade Between India and Singapore
Agricultural trade between India and Singapore is growing steadily, driven by mutual interests in food security, quality produce, and diversified supply chains. India exports a wide range of agricultural products to Singapore, including:
Key Agricultural Exports from India to Singapore
- Spices
- Fruits and vegetables
- Rice
- Pulses
- Edible oils
- Groundnuts (peanuts)
In 2023, India's agricultural exports to Singapore crossed USD 600 million, with groundnuts being among the top items due to their nutritional value, long shelf life, and diverse applications in food processing, snacks, and oil extraction.
The Rising Demand for Indian Peanuts in Singapore
Why Peanuts?
Peanuts, also known as groundnuts, are a significant export commodity for India. Rich in protein, healthy fats, and fiber, peanuts are used in:
- Peanut butter
- Peanut oil
- Snack products
- Health bars
- Confectionery
Singapore's food industry and re-export market make it a prime destination for high-quality Indian peanuts.
Varieties and Types of Peanuts Exported from India
India exports several varieties of peanuts that are in demand globally, especially in Southeast Asian markets like Singapore:
1. Bold Peanuts
- Size: Large kernels
- Color: Light reddish-brown
- Oil content: 45-49%
- Use: Snack foods, roasting
2. Java Peanuts
- Size: Small to medium kernels
- Color: Pinkish
- Oil content: 40-45%
- Use: Confectionery, peanut butter
3. TJ Peanuts (Java Type)
- Size: Tiny Java kernels
- Popular in: Southeast Asian snack industry
- Use: Roasted & salted snacks
4. Red Skin Peanuts
- Known for their antioxidant-rich skin
- Used in health food products and natural peanut butter
Peanut Export from India to Singapore: Trade Data and Growth
The peanut trade between India and Singapore has shown consistent growth, with India being one of the top peanut suppliers to Singapore.
Key Peanut Export Facts (2023–24)
- Total groundnut exports from India: Over 750,000 MT
- Peanut exports to Singapore: Approx. 12,000 MT in 2023
- Growth rate: Over 15% YoY growth in peanut shipments to Singapore
- Major ports of export: Mundra, Pipavav, Chennai
- Primary destinations: Food manufacturing companies, snack processors, re-exporters
This growth is fueled by:
- Increasing demand for healthy snacking
- Singapore's strong re-export ecosystem to countries like Malaysia, Indonesia, and Hong Kong
- India's competitive pricing and consistent quality
Opportunities for Indian Peanut Exporters
With rising demand for plant-based protein and natural snacks in Singapore, Indian exporters have a strong opportunity to increase market share. Key strategies include:
- Offering value-added peanut products like roasted peanuts, blanched peanuts, and peanut flour
- Custom packaging solutions for retail and bulk buyers
- Ensuring quality certifications such as FSSAI, APEDA, HACCP, and SGS inspection for credibility
Conclusion
The agriculture trade between India and Singapore is a testament to growing economic cooperation. Peanuts, in particular, are a rising star in this relationship. With high-quality varieties like Bold and Java, India is well-positioned to meet Singapore's demand for nutritious, versatile, and affordable groundnuts.
For peanut exporters in India, Singapore represents not just a destination, but a gateway to Southeast Asia. With the right trade partnerships, certifications, and logistics, this corridor can drive long-term agricultural success.