The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) and the Government of Arunachal Pradesh organized an International Conclave and Buyer-Seller Meet at Kalawangpo Convention Hall in Tawang. The conference was to promote the export of agricultural and processed food products of the North Eastern Region (NER).
Chief Minister Pema Khandu addressed the function and assured continued support to the agriculture sector in Arunachal Pradesh. He particularly emphasized how farmers and women Self-Help Groups (SHGs) are contributing to the change. He also discussed the vast export possibilities of Arunachal’s distinctive products such as Khamti Rice, Mandarin Orange, Kiwi, Yak Cheese (Churpi), and others—particularly to ASEAN and Southeast Asia.
Agriculture Minister Gabriel Denwang Wangsu said it is necessary to encourage the farmers to become more conscious and receive good prices for their produce. He complimented the farmers on producing high-quality fruits and value-added goods such as wines.
APEDA Chairman Abhishek Dev motivated the choice of Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs) and Farmer Producer Companies (FPCs) from Arunachal to participate in large trade fairs. He guaranteed APEDA’s complete support for enhancing infrastructure, training, branding, and marketing these products overseas.
The conclave assembled 11 foreign buyers representing the UAE, Nepal, and Bhutan, along with 17 exporters from Indian states such as Assam, Maharashtra, Delhi, Karnataka, and Gujarat. Over 50 FPOs and over 350 local farmers attended as well.
Exchanges spanned a vast array of products ranging from organic fruits and vegetables to millets, honey, fruits, vegetables, processed foods, spices, and tea. The conclave provided an opportunity to create new export markets for Arunachal’s farmers and agribusinesses.
This initiative supports Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of a “Viksit North East” (Developed North East), with efforts from APEDA, the Ministries of Commerce, Agriculture, and North Eastern Region, along with the state government.
APEDA, under the Ministry of Commerce & Industry, plays an important role in helping Indian farmers and exporters reach international markets.
