New Delhi: The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) is making significant strides in its efforts to amplify India’s agricultural exports by implementing a range of strategic initiatives. The organization’s forward-thinking approach involves a paradigm shift towards diversifying the export basket, focusing on priority products such as fresh fruits, vegetables, processed foods, and animal products. The ultimate goal is to reduce dependence on a few products and ascend the value chain in the global market.
A key aspect of APEDA’s strategy is its emphasis on expanding into vital markets, including Europe, Latin America, and Asia. The authority is actively engaging in partnerships with global supermarkets to showcase Indian products on the international stage. Concurrently, APEDA is collaborating with research institutions to establish sea protocols, aiming to cut logistical expenses and streamline the export process.
In a notable move towards a healthier and more diversified food landscape, APEDA has been ardently promoting the Shree Anna-Millets brand. Over the past year, especially during the International Year of Millets-2023, APEDA has been dedicated to developing and integrating a range of value-added products under the Shree Anna brand.
This initiative has resulted in the creation of various value-added products, including pasta, noodles, breakfast cereals, ice cream, biscuits, energy bars, and snacks. By expanding the Shree Anna product line, APEDA not only infuses innovation but also seamlessly integrates these products into the export value chain. This aligns with the government’s vision of promoting healthier dietary choices and expanding India’s agricultural export portfolio.
APEDA’s efforts have borne fruit, as evidenced by the significant growth in exports to major markets during April-November 2023. Iraq, Vietnam, Saudi Arabia, and the UK experienced remarkable increases of 110%, 46%, 18%, and 47%, respectively, indicating a rising global demand for Indian agricultural products.
In a bid to foster inclusivity, APEDA is extending support to startups, women entrepreneurs, and Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs/FPCs) by facilitating their participation in global events. Additionally, responding to exporter feedback, APEDA is taking the lead in participating in new fairs across emerging markets such as Turkey, South Korea, Kenya, South Africa, and Japan. This proactive approach aims to enhance market access and create sustainable growth opportunities for Indian exporters. APEDA’s multifaceted initiatives underscore its commitment to boosting India’s agricultural exports and creating a resilient and diversified global presence.