Is the Centre Formulating a New Strategy to Boost Farm Goods and Processed Food Exports?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
The Indian government is taking significant steps to enhance the export of agricultural and processed food products. Commerce Secretary Sunil Barthwal emphasizes the need for collaboration and innovation in a recent high-level meeting. Key stakeholders from various states and industries convened to discuss strategies for overcoming logistical barriers and improving market access.
Key Takeaways
- Government commitment to enhance agri-exports.
- Need for collaboration between academia and industry.
- Focus on sustainable practices in agricultural production.
- Importance of infrastructure development for export growth.
- Identification of key export sectors for processed foods.
New Delhi, May 4 (NationPress) The government is determined to minimize logistical obstacles and improve market access for Indian agricultural and processed food products, stated Commerce Secretary Sunil Barthwal during a high-level Chintan Shivir, hosted by the Agricultural & Processed Food Products Authority (APEDA) this Sunday.
In his speech, Barthwal emphasized that "Academia and research institutions should be included in multisectoral discussions to ensure that research and development are prioritized for innovation and sustainability in agri exports".
He underscored that both agricultural production and productivity are critical at this juncture and reiterated the ministry’s dedication to further explore the ideas and strategies that emerged during the sessions.
The consultative meeting convened senior officials from the Union government, Central Ministries, state government representatives, policy experts, and industry leaders from the agricultural trade and processed food sectors to discuss strategies to boost exports.
In his introductory comments, Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MoFPI) Secretary Subrata Gupta stressed the significance of infrastructure development and value addition to ensure sustainable export growth. He noted the necessity of aligning infrastructure and sanitary standards with international norms, as well as creating tariff plans and fostering greater collaboration between the Union government, state governments, various departments, and industry stakeholders. He pinpointed potential products and sectors for processed foods exports such as alcoholic beverages, nutraceuticals, and value-added products.
This Chintan Shivir also saw participation from Special Secretary of the Department of Commerce Rajesh Agrawal, Additional Secretary of the Department of Animal Husbandry & Dairying Varsha Joshi, along with other senior officials from both Union and state governments, policymakers, and industry leaders.
Agrawal highlighted the necessity for a more synergetic approach among various stakeholders to introduce new agricultural, processed food, and value-added products to untapped markets.
A total of 14 states, including Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, Haryana, Punjab, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Telangana, Tamil Nadu, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, and West Bengal, participated in this high-level meeting.
Industry leaders from the agricultural and processed food sectors, represented by companies such as LT Foods, KRBL, Amul, Organic India, ITC, Meatzza, Suguna Foods, Kaybee, TPCI, Allanasons, Fair Exports, and HMA Exports, were part of the dialogue.
The Shivir was segmented into five parallel technical breakout sessions that focused on specific agri-trade commodities and the processed food sector, which covered basmati and non-basmati rice, animal products, horticulture and processed foods, along with organic products.
Point of View
I believe this initiative reflects a proactive approach by the government to fortify India's agricultural export sector. Collaborative efforts among various stakeholders, alongside a focus on infrastructure and sustainable practices, are essential for ensuring the competitiveness of Indian agri-products in the global market. This aligns with our nation's vision to support local farmers and elevate India's standing in international trade.
NationPress
08/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main goal of the recent Chintan Shivir?
The main goal of the Chintan Shivir is to reduce logistical barriers and enhance market access for Indian agricultural and processed food products.
Who attended the high-level meeting?
Senior officials from the Union government, Central Ministries, state governments, policy experts, and industry leaders from the agricultural trade and processed food sector attended.
What sectors are being targeted for export growth?
Key sectors identified for export growth include alcoholic beverages, nutraceuticals, and other value-added products.
How many states participated in the Chintan Shivir?
A total of 14 states participated in the high-level meeting.
What are the proposed solutions to enhance exports?
Proposed solutions include improving infrastructure, aligning sanitary standards with international norms, and fostering collaboration among stakeholders.
