NEW DELHI, 10 July 2025: India’s agricultural and processed food exports are expected to grow fivefold to INR 20 lakh crore in the coming years, driven by increased value addition, branding, and packaging improvements, Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal said recently.

Speaking at an industry interaction, Goyal said that exports from the sector stood at $51.86 billion (approx. INR 4.4 lakh crore) in FY25. He emphasised the government’s focus on building a resilient supply chain for agricultural inputs ranging from seeds and fertilisers to machinery.

“India’s export basket is expanding. Products like litchi, jamun, bottle gourd, and pineapple—which weren’t traditionally exported—are now finding markets abroad,” Goyal noted. Litchis from Punjab have reached Doha and Dubai, while jamun was recently shipped to the UK.

The Minister attributed part of this momentum to the International Year of Millets, which spotlighted India’s heritage grains. “Millets are now getting global recognition for their nutritional value and resilience,” he said.

Goyal highlighted infrastructure and traceability as key focus areas. With initiatives such as the Turmeric Board and growing spice exports, he called for better certification standards, particularly for organic produce. “We are tightening norms using blockchain technology to ensure transparency and traceability,” he said.

He also urged agriculture entrepreneurs and start-ups to collaborate with farmers and help them transition to high-value agriculture. “From packaging to product design, India must improve its international competitiveness,” he said, noting recent growth in coffee and spice exports.

The comments come amid growing global volatility, with Goyal reiterating the need for self-reliance in farm inputs and a more robust export strategy.

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