APEDA collaborates with Mizoram govt to boost agricultural exports with international conclave

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaDecember 7, 2024

The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), in partnership with the Mizoram government, hosted an International Conclave cum Buyer-Seller Meet (BSM) in Aizawl on Saturday. The event aimed to enhance agricultural and processed food exports from Mizoram and the broader northeastern region (NER).

The event was attended by several distinguished figures, including, F. Rodingliana, Mizoram Minister of Commerce and Industries; Khilli Ram Meena, Mizoram Chief Secretary; Dr. K.C. Lalmalsawmzauva, Advisor to the Chief Minister; Dr. C. Vanlalramsanga, Economic Adviser, Ministry of Commerce; Abhishek Dev, APEDA Chairman; Dr. A.B. Rema Shree, Director, Spices Board and Lalhmingmuane, Managing Director, Mizoram Agricultural Marketing Board.

Export Potential: Minister F. Rodingliana highlighted ginger, turmeric, Mizo chili, and broom grass as key export products, encouraging buyers to invest in Mizoram’s agricultural potential.

In his address, Minister of Commerce and Industries F. Rodingliana identified ginger, turmeric, Mizo chilli, and broom grass as potential export products from Mizoram. He encouraged domestic and international buyers to bless the state and invest in its untapped potential.

Chief Secretary Khilli Ram Meena emphasised on the need to generate awareness and build capacity of the “Anna Datta” (Farmers) of the state in order to ensure fair prices for their products in domestic and international markets. Economic Adviser, Department of Commerce, Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Dr. C. Vanlalramsanga emphasised the initiatives by the Govt. to encourage each district and state to become export hubs to promote localised economic growth.  APEDA chairman Abhishek Dev encouraged the identification of Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs)/ Farmer Producer Companies (FPCs) from Mizoram for participation in key national and international Trade Fairs for market access, promotion and outreach. He assured that, APEDA and the Government of Mizoram will work closely for the promotion of the Agri and Organic exports from the state.

Besides senior officials from APEDA and the Mizoram government, the event saw active participation from international buyers from 10 countries, 27+ exporters and exhibitors, industry leaders and experts from sectors such as Organic produce, Millets, Honey, Fresh Fruits and Vegetables, Processed Food, Spices and Tea. This Conclave of public and private partners facilitated meaningful dialogue aimed at unlocking the potential of Mizoram’s agri-business and processed food export sectors.

Stakeholders emphasised the initiatives undertaken under MOVCD-NER scheme for enabling the value chain ecosystem in Agri-Horti sector in NER and insightful presentations were made on the revised National Programme for Organic Production (NPOP) 2024, demonstration of new TraceNet System, Marketing ecosystem in the state underscoring the strategic importance of Mizoram’s rich agro-climatic advantages and its role in advancing India’s agricultural exports. Government of

India’s continued support was highlighted through key policy interventions, infrastructure development and initiatives aimed at sustainable growth in the state’s export ecosystem.

To showcase their activities, agricultural and processed food products, Spices Board of India, NERACE, NABARD and over 27+ exhibitors and leading exporters from all across the country showcased a vibrant display of products like Pineapple, Dragon Fruit, Ginger, Spices, Passion Fruit, Mandarins, Organic Products, Spices and Value Added Products like Pineapple and jams, amongst others. The event featured a Buyer-Seller Meet facilitating direct interactions between international buyers and Indian exporters, as well as discussions with Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) and Farmer Producer Companies (FPCs) from the region.

This international conclave marks a pivotal step in enhancing Mizoram’s agricultural export capacity. By fostering partnerships among government entities, industry leaders, and global buyers, the event aims to unlock Mizoram’s potential as a hub for sustainable agriculture and bolster India’s position in the global agri-export market.