New Delhi, Nov 5 (NationPress) The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) of India has successfully facilitated the export of 20 metric tonnes of fortified rice from Chhattisgarh to Papua New Guinea, as per an official announcement made on Wednesday.

This shipment marks a remarkable achievement in India’s ongoing mission to enhance its agricultural export sector and solidify the country's reputation as a trusted supplier of high-quality, fortified, and value-added food products on the global stage, the announcement stated.

Fortified rice is produced by combining rice flour with essential micronutrients like iron, folic acid, and vitamin B12. This fortified mixture is extruded and shaped to mimic natural rice grains, which are then blended with standard rice in a specific ratio to improve the nutritional content of this staple food. The export of fortified rice from India showcases the country’s technical expertise in food fortification and its role in enhancing global food and nutritional security, the statement elaborated.

Chhattisgarh has been proactive in promoting the export of both rice and fortified rice, empowering local farmers, millers, and exporters to gain increased visibility and recognition in international markets. The successful dispatch of fortified rice to Papua New Guinea highlights Chhattisgarh’s significant contribution to the global nutrition-focused food supply chain and illustrates the state’s evolving contribution to advancing India’s agricultural export aspirations, according to the statement.

APEDA Chairman Abhishek Dev praised the exporter, M/s Sponge Enterprises Pvt. Ltd. from Raipur, along with all stakeholders for reaching this milestone. He noted that the successful export of fortified rice from Chhattisgarh is a testament to India’s increasing ability to deliver premium-quality, science-based, and nutrition-focused food solutions to consumers worldwide.

APEDA is dedicated to supporting exporters through quality assurance systems, capacity building, value-chain development, and strategic market linkages, aiming to further strengthen India’s position in the global agricultural trade landscape, he added.

Mukesh Jain, President of the Rice Exporters Association of Chhattisgarh, mentioned that the export of fortified rice from the state is set to reach new markets, reflecting global buyers' confidence in India's product integrity and supply capabilities. He also commended APEDA’s efforts in fostering agricultural exports from Chhattisgarh.

This successful export from Chhattisgarh to Papua New Guinea is another significant achievement for India’s agricultural export sector. It exemplifies the collaborative efforts between APEDA, the Chhattisgarh government, and the private sector in establishing India as a reliable and responsible provider of safe, nutritious, and high-quality food products globally.