Exports of farm products in the April-December 2018 period declined by 3 per cent to $13.16 billion from $13.52 billion in the same period last year. However, in rupee terms, exports registered 4.2 per cent growth at ₹91,221 crore over the year-ago period’s ₹87,528 crore.

Major products such as non-basmati rice and buffalo meat declined on higher prices and demand related issues, according to data released by the Agricultural and Processed Foods Export Development Authority.

Non-basmati exports fell 16.39 per cent, while buffalo meat shipments were down 13.49 per cent in value terms. Basmati rice shipments grew 5.49 per cent in dollar terms but declined in volumes.

The export of pulses, dairy and poultry products increased. Processed vegetables and fruits, floriculture, fruit and vegetable seeds also rose. Guargum, a key commodity, also saw an 8 per cent increase in value to $495 million for the period.

However, products such as fresh fruits and vegetables, wheat and groundnut registered a decline.