Shillong, Feb 3 (NationPress) Meghalaya's Chief Minister, Conrad Sangma, announced on Tuesday that the state is shifting its economic strategy towards establishing enduring trade partnerships. This transition is exemplified by the development of a robust trade ecosystem that has successfully transformed local products, including indigenous pineapples and curcumin-rich Lakadong turmeric, into high-value exports on the global stage.

The Meghalaya government, in collaboration with the Federation of Indian Export Organisations (FIEO) and the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, launched the Reverse Buyer-Seller Meet (RBSM) 2026 at the State Convention Centre, aiming to position the state as a key export hub in the Northeast.

With support from the Ministry of Commerce and Industry and the World Bank, RBSM 2026 is designed to enhance Meghalaya’s export framework by directly linking local producers to international buyers.

A significant feature of the inauguration was the unveiling of the ‘MeghaRise’ brand and logo, establishing a cohesive identity for the state's MSME and export ecosystem. Additionally, a state-level MSME portal was launched to facilitate easier business operations, improve access to government initiatives, and digitally connect entrepreneurs with global markets.

The Chief Minister highlighted that Meghalaya is focusing on forming long-term economic partnerships instead of merely transactional trade relations.

Referencing success stories like the global recognition of Meghalaya’s indigenous pineapples and Lakadong turmeric, he emphasized that the state is successfully converting local products into high-value exports with structured assistance.

“Our goal is not just to conduct business; it is to forge partnerships,” Sangma stated, pledging ongoing government support in deregulation, logistics, and infrastructure to empower local entrepreneurs and attract international investors.

RBSM 2026 is structured to promote targeted business-to-business interactions, allowing Meghalaya's exporters to engage directly with international buyers, discover new markets, and establish lasting trade connections.

Participating buyers from 15 countries, including Russia, South Africa, New Zealand, Canada, Australia, Turkey, Bahrain, Sri Lanka, and Azerbaijan, are attending the event. Over 300 MSME sellers from various sectors, including handloom and handicrafts, bamboo and cane products, agro and food processing, spices, honey, herbal and wellness products, pottery, and wood-based crafts, are showcasing their offerings.

The two-day event features more than 125 exhibition stalls, providing buyers with hands-on experiences through live demonstrations and curated displays. Structured B2B meetings commenced right after the inauguration.

Deputy Chief Minister Sniawbhalang Dhar described RBSM 2026 as a pivotal initiative for Meghalaya and the Northeast, noting that the participating sellers are fully prepared for export, having completed all necessary registrations and documentation. He remarked that the event signifies the state’s confidence in its businesses and readiness to engage with global markets.