The North Eastern Region (NER) of India has become a significant player in agricultural and horticultural exports. The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Development Authority (APEDA) has identified the region’s potential and devised a strategy to boost its export capabilities. This involves the creation of a platform in Assam, where exporters can source products directly from producers and processors.
The Strategic Position of NER within Agri Exports
NER holds a geopolitically strategic position as it shares international boundaries with China, Bhutan, Myanmar, Nepal, and Bangladesh. This geopolitical significance makes it a potential hub for exporting agricultural produce not only to neighbouring countries but also to other foreign destinations. Over the last six years, the region has seen an increase in the export of agricultural products by 85.34%, from USD 2.52 million in 2016-17 to USD 17.2 million in 2021-22. The main exports go to destinations such as Bangladesh, Bhutan, the Middle East, the UK, and Europe.
Climatic Advantage of NER
Assam and other states in the NER enjoy favourable climate conditions and soil type, which are ideal for growing almost all kinds of agricultural and horticultural crops. The region produces a large market surplus of perishable commodities like banana, pineapple, orange, and tomato.
Initiatives to Promote NER as Agri Export Hub
Various initiatives have been taken to promote NER as an agricultural export hub. These include the Mission Organic Value Chain Development for North East Region (MOVCD-NER), a scheme aimed at developing certified organic production and supporting the entire value chain. Further support by APEDA includes training programmes in collaboration with Assam Agriculture University, Jorhat, on areas such as pre-harvest and post-harvest management.
Virtually Facilitating Exports during the Pandemic
Despite the Covid-19 pandemic, APEDA continued to push export plans via Virtual Buyer Seller Meets, in association with the Embassy of India located in various countries, related to products such as pineapple, ginger, lemon, orange, and more. Additionally, APEDA organised Virtual Trade Fairs to encourage exports to foreign countries.
Branding and Capacity Building Initiatives
APEDA played a significant role in branding and promoting North East products like KIWI Wine, processed foods, Joha Rice Pulao, Black Rice kheer, etc. It also organised skill development programmes for manufacturers, exporters, and entrepreneurs to use local produce for value addition.
Workshop on Food Quality and Safety Management
To boost exports from NER through sustainable food value chain development, APEDA facilitated workshops on Food Quality and Safety Management for the Export of Processed Food Products. This initiative was designed to maintain the quality and safety standards of agricultural and processed food products from NER.
Last Modified: February 15, 2024