Inter-ministerial forum discusses R&D, market access, infra push
NEW DELHI, 4 May 2025: India’s apex body for agricultural and processed food exports—APEDA (Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority)—is working on a comprehensive export promotion strategy to expand India's footprint in global food markets. This follows an inter-ministerial dialogue held last week in New Delhi.
The meeting saw participation from state government officials, industry leaders, policy experts, and agri-export stakeholders, and focused on ways to streamline logistics, bolster infrastructure, and enhance product value addition.
“The government is committed to removing logistical barriers and improving market access for Indian agri and food products,” said Commerce Secretary Sunil Barthwal, addressing the forum.
Collaborative Roadmap Ahead
Barthwal stressed the importance of involving academia and research institutions in policy-making to drive innovation and sustainability in the agri-export ecosystem. He underscored the dual challenge of increasing both production and productivity to meet rising global demand.
“Multi-sectoral consultations must include R&D as a key pillar. The ministry will further deliberate on the ideas and strategies discussed here,” he added.
Focus on Infra, Standards, Value Addition
Subrata Gupta, Secretary of the Ministry of Food Processing Industries, pointed to the critical need for world-class infrastructure and sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) standards that meet international benchmarks.
He also called for greater synergy between the Centre, states, and industry players to realise India’s export potential across categories such as alcoholic beverages, nutraceuticals, and value-added processed foods.
“For sustainable export growth, we must ensure value addition and compliance with global norms,” said Gupta.
Export Opportunities Across Sectors
Rajesh Agrawal, Special Secretary, Ministry of Commerce, reiterated the need for a cohesive approach to take Indian agriculture, processed food, and value-added products into new global markets.
Key Sectors in Focus: Rice (Basmati & Non-Basmati); animal products; horticulture; organic products; and processed foods.
India’s Agri Exports Cross $50 Billion
India’s agricultural exports for 2024–25 are estimated to have exceeded $50 billion, affirming the country’s position as a key global supplier. APEDA aims to build on this momentum by diversifying export products, targeting new geographies, and facilitating ease of doing export business through policy and procedural reforms.
Image credit: uprodemy.com
