Has the International Buyer-Seller Meet in Bihar Changed the Game for Local Producers?

Patna, May 20 (NationPress) A transformative two-day International Buyer-Seller Meet took place at Gyan Bhavan in Patna, marking a pivotal moment for local producers. More than 70 entrepreneurs (buyers) from 22 countries including Germany, Japan, and Australia participated in this significant event.

In addition, over 50 buyers and sellers from across India joined the meet. The primary objective was to unite vital stakeholders from Bihar's food and related sectors to enhance trade, fortify exports, and elevate Bihar's agricultural capabilities onto a global stage. The event showcased Bihar’s agricultural wealth and food products to an international audience.

The Makhana trade in Bihar is experiencing extraordinary growth, spurred by the Central government's establishment of a Makhana Board and the recent acquisition of the Geographical Indication (GI) tag. These initiatives, supported by both the Central and state governments, have unlocked international opportunities for the state’s food processing sector, especially for Makhana, mangoes, and litchis.

Vikas Kumar, a businessman, shared with IANS the significant interest international buyers have shown in Bihar’s Makhana.

"This international conference represents a substantial advantage for farmers and Makhana exporters," he remarked.

“Buyers from various nations indicated a willingness to pay up to Rs 500 above local market prices for Bihar’s Makhana. That’s a remarkable development. We are already exporting to numerous countries through government partnerships, and this event has paved the way for nearly 20 new international collaborations,” he informed IANS.

Kumar mentioned that there is a high demand for Makhana-based products such as biscuits, chocolates, toffees, roasted snacks, and chips.

"With Bihar producing over 90 percent of the world’s Makhana, the potential is vast. The market has already surpassed Rs 100 crore and is poised for further growth. If the government continues its current initiatives, the future looks promising for Makhana producers," Kumar stated.

Sony, another local entrepreneur and exporter of carbide-free mangoes and vegetables, praised the event for its educational approach.

"Many are unaware of where to buy or whom to sell to. This conference effectively filled that gap. We utilize hot water treatment instead of harmful chemicals and have government approvals for many of our processes. This platform allowed us to connect directly with potential buyers seeking safe, high-quality products," she added.

The event was a collaborative effort between the Union Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MOFPI) and the Bihar State Department of Industries. It successfully gathered hundreds of producers, entrepreneurs, and traders from across Bihar to engage with international buyers and explore new markets.

During the inauguration on Monday, Union Food Processing Industries Minister Chirag Paswan stressed the broader objective of the event.

"This is a modest attempt to link Bihar’s producers with the global marketplace," he stated.

"Prime Minister Narendra Modi envisions Indian food products reaching every plate worldwide, and Bihar plays a crucial role in that aspiration," he concluded.