Will Andhra Pradesh Become a Global Food Processing Hub?
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Synopsis
Andhra Pradesh is on the brink of becoming a global leader in food processing, according to Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu. With rich agricultural resources and robust policies, the state is gearing up for significant investments and job creation in the next five years, aiming to enhance its position on the world stage.
Key Takeaways
- Andhra Pradesh aims to become a global food processing hub.
- CM Naidu highlights the state's rich aquaculture and horticulture resources.
- Significant contributions to India’s food processing output.
- Investment policies are designed to attract investments and create jobs.
- Focus on quality enhancement for global market competitiveness.
Visakhapatnam, Aug 29 (NationPress) Andhra Pradesh is set to become a global leader in food processing, stated Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu on Friday.
He highlighted that with five distinct climatic zones that support rich aquaculture and horticulture, Andhra Pradesh is ideally positioned for success in the food processing industry.
While addressing the India Food Manufacturing Summit organized by the Trade Promotion Council of India (TPCI), he noted that India is rapidly becoming a global food processing center, with Andhra Pradesh accounting for 9 percent of the country's food processing output, valued at $49 billion.
CM Naidu emphasized that Andhra Pradesh, contributing 15.6 percent of India's total fruit production, has rightfully earned the title of the fruit capital of India. The state is also responsible for approximately 32 percent of marine seafood exports and manages 2.26 lakh acres of aquaculture. With around 6,000 operational food processing units, Andhra Pradesh ranks first in registered food industries.
He pointed out that the increasing demand for high-quality food is driving the need for food processing units. He informed potential investors that the state offers a world-class food processing ecosystem featuring nine integrated food parks with plug-and-play facilities, as well as cold storage and warehousing options.
According to CM Naidu, Andhra Pradesh is poised to emerge as a global food processing hub alongside the largest food producers in the country. The state leads in the production of rice, mango, banana, chili, turmeric, and shrimp, and is also engaged in fish, shrimp, and egg production.
The Chief Minister underscored the importance of enhancing the value of food products for the global market.
He stated that Andhra Pradesh, with a net cultivable area of 8.45 million hectares, stands as one of the largest food producers in India.
In fish, shrimp, and egg production, Andhra Pradesh is number one, contributing 17.85 percent of India’s eggs and 10.41 percent of meat exports.
CM Naidu announced that the 'Andhra Pradesh Food Processing Policy 4.0' provides attractive incentives, including investment subsidies and power cost reductions, with immediate clearances available through a single-window system for food processing units.
He revealed a target to attract investments worth ₹30,000 crore and generate 3 lakh jobs within the next five years. Last year, the state secured ₹9,000 crore in investments in the agro-food processing sector alone.
The Chief Minister emphasized the need for achieving product excellence to satisfy global market demands.
He assured that the state government is prepared to implement next-generation reforms to align with global quality standards in food production.
Earlier, Avinash Joshi, secretary of the Union Ministry of Food Processing Industries, praised the Andhra Pradesh government’s initiatives in the food processing sector, highlighting the necessity for food product value addition and preventing waste.
Mohit Singla, chairman of the Trade Promotion Council of India, announced the establishment of the TPCI southern regional office in Amaravati, indicating that Andhra Pradesh is leading the way in food processing.
State Industries Minister TG Bharath and Principal Secretary of Food Processing, AP, Chiranjeevi Chowdary, also addressed the attendees.
Point of View
It is clear that Andhra Pradesh's strategic enhancements in food processing reflect a significant step toward meeting the demands of a growing global market. The state's commitment to innovation and quality in food production positions it as a vital player in India's agricultural economy, contributing to both local prosperity and international trade.
NationPress
30/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What initiatives is Andhra Pradesh taking to boost food processing?
Andhra Pradesh is implementing the 'Food Processing Policy 4.0', offering attractive incentives like investment subsidies and immediate clearances to attract investors.
How does Andhra Pradesh contribute to India's food processing industry?
The state contributes 9% of India's food processing output, making it a significant player in the national market.
What are the main agricultural products of Andhra Pradesh?
Andhra Pradesh is a top producer of rice, mango, banana, chili, turmeric, and shrimp, along with being the leading state in fish and egg production.
What is the investment target for Andhra Pradesh in the food processing sector?
The state aims to attract ₹30,000 crore in investments and create 3 lakh jobs in the next five years.
Why is quality enhancement important for Andhra Pradesh's food products?
Enhancing food product quality is crucial for meeting global market demands and ensuring competitiveness in international trade.
