APEDA, Govt. of Mizoram host International Conclave cum Buyer-Seller Meet

The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) in collaboration with the Government of Mizoram, hosted an International Conclave cum Buyer-Seller Meet (BSM) in Aizawl to promote agricultural and processed food exports from Mizoram and the broader North-Eastern Region (NER) of India. The International Conclave cum Buyer Seller Meet (BSM) was graced by Chief Guest F. Rodingliana, Hon’ble Minister of Commerce and Industries, Government of Mizoram, Khilli Ram Meena, Chief Secretary, Government of Mizoram, Dr. K.C. Lalmalsawmzauva, Advisor to the Chief Minister, Government of Mizoram, Dr. C. Vanlalramsanga, Economic Adviser, Ministry of Commerce, Govt. of India, Abhishek Dev, Chairman, APEDA, Dr. A.B. Rema Shree, Director, Spices Board and Lalhmingmuane, Managing Director of the Mizoram Agricultural Marketing Board. In his address, Minister of Commerce and Industries, F. Rodingliana identified Ginger Turmeric, Mizo Chilli and Broom Grass as potential products for exports from Mizoram. He encouraged domestic and international buyers to be a blessing for the state and invest in the state’s untapped potential.

Chief Secretary, Government of Mizoram, 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 price for their products in domestic and international markets. Economic Adviser, Department of Commerce, Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Govt. of India, Dr. C. Vanlalramsanga emphasised on the initiatives by the Govt. to encourage each district and state to become Export Hubs to promote localised economic growth. Chairman, APEDA, 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 promotion of the Agri and Organic exports from the State.

Besides senior officials from APEDA and the Government of Mizoram, 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 on the initiatives undertaken under MOVCD-NER scheme for enabling 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 and BSM marks a critical step in the state’s journey to open new avenues for Mizoram’s agricultural products in the global marketplace, promote sustainable growth and strengthen the export ecosystem in India’s North Eastern Region (NER).