APEDA and Arunachal Pradesh Government Boost Agri and Processed Food Exports

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- APEDA and Arunachal Pradesh government organized an international conclave.
- 11 international buyers from UAE, Nepal, and Bhutan participated.
- 17 Indian exporters interacted with buyers, enhancing trade.
- Focus on GI-tagged products like Khamti Rice and Mandarin Oranges.
- Commitment to farmer development and export enhancement.
New Delhi, April 12 (NationPress) To enhance the exports of agricultural and processed food products from the northeast region, the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), in partnership with the Arunachal Pradesh government, organized an international conclave and buyer-seller meeting (IBSM), as announced by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry on Saturday.
The event, held at the Kalawangpo Convention Hall in Tawang, facilitated direct engagement between 11 international buyers from three nations—the UAE, Nepal, and Bhutan—and 17 Indian exporters from seven states and union territories (UTs) including Assam, Maharashtra, Delhi, Hyderabad, Karnataka, Gujarat, and West Bengal.
Exporters from across the nation also had the opportunity to connect with more than 50 Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs) and 200 farmers from Arunachal Pradesh who attended the event to gain insights into the quality, availability, and production volumes of agricultural products.
During the event, State Chief Minister Pema Khandu expressed his commitment to advancing the agricultural and allied sectors, improving the livelihoods of farmers, supporting self-help groups, and promoting women-led initiatives.
His vision includes boosting the exports of GI-tagged Khaw Tai Rice (referred to as Khamti Rice), Mandarin Oranges, Kiwi, Apples, Persimmon, and Yak Cheese (Churpi) to South East Asian and ASEAN countries.
He encouraged both domestic and international buyers to invest in the state's untapped opportunities.
The event highlighted the farmers' steadfast dedication to producing the region's finest Kiwi, Mandarin Oranges, Apples, walnuts, and value-added products such as wines.
APEDA Chairman Abhishek Dev urged the identification of FPOs and Farmer Producer Companies (FPCs) from Arunachal Pradesh for participation in significant national and international trade fairs to enhance market access, promotion, and outreach.
He assured that APEDA and the state government are dedicated to collaborating closely for the identification and development of key agricultural products from Arunachal Pradesh for export to global markets, along with infrastructure development and farmer training and capacity building.
APEDA facilitated significant trade discussions among policymakers, buyers, exporters, exhibitors, industry leaders, and experts from various key sectors.