New Delhi: The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), under the Ministry of Commerce & Industry, highlighted India’s robust agricultural and processed food export capabilities at the 40th edition of AAHAR 2026 held at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi. The pavilion brought together exporters, State representatives, startups, and industry stakeholders to explore global business opportunities and promote India’s diverse agri-food portfolio.
India’s Agri and Processed Food Exports Cross ₹5 Lakh Crore
In his keynote address, Union Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal emphasized that India’s agricultural and processed food exports have crossed ₹5 lakh crore annually, reflecting the strength of farmers, fishermen, and food processors across the country.
Goyal highlighted that India’s expanding network of Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) is opening new opportunities in high-value markets. Agreements with countries such as the United Arab Emirates, Australia, Switzerland, and engagements with partners like Japan, Korea, the UK, Oman, and Mauritius are providing preferential market access, enabling exporters, MSMEs, and farmers to expand globally.
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APEDA Pavilion: A Platform for Export Promotion
The APEDA Pavilion, inaugurated by Additional Secretary Nitin Kumar Yadav, APEDA Chairman Abhishek Dev, and ITPO Managing Director Neeraj Kharwal, served as a central platform to showcase India’s export-ready agricultural and processed food products.
- Exhibition area: 2,500 square meters
- Over 100 exhibitors including exporters, startups, producer organizations, and food processing enterprises
- Live demonstrations of Basmati Rice, Non-Basmati Rice, Organic Products, and Plant-Based Foods
- State Pavilions from Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Bihar, Delhi, Gujarat, Haryana, Karnataka, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Meghalaya, Punjab, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and West Bengal
The pavilion enabled exporters and buyers to interact, explore collaborations, and strengthen market linkages while highlighting India’s region-specific agricultural products and value-added processed foods.
Research Reports and Packaging Solutions
APEDA also released research reports on cucumber, cashew, pineapple, and pomegranate, prepared in collaboration with ICRIER. These reports provide insights into supply chains, export potential, and strategies to enhance India’s global competitiveness.
In addition, APEDA launched packaging design solutions and technical standards in collaboration with the Indian Institute of Packaging (IIP). The initiative focuses on GI-tagged and organic products, improving shelf life, protection, and presentation for exports. Featured products include:
- Karbi Anglong Ginger (Assam)
- G4 Chilli and Jalgaon Banana (Maharashtra)
- Assam Kaji Nemu (Assam)
- Prayagraj Surkha Guava (Uttar Pradesh)
Focus on Innovation and Plant-Based Foods
A highlight of the APEDA Pavilion was live wet sampling sessions by a renowned chef showcasing innovative recipes using Indian agricultural and processed food products. Special emphasis was placed on plant-based foods, reflecting India’s growing presence in sustainable and global food trends.
AAHAR 2026: South Asia’s Premier Food & Hospitality Fair
Organized by the India Trade Promotion Organisation (ITPO), the 40th AAHAR edition featured Italy as the Country Partner and attracted over one lakh visitors. The event provides a critical B2B platform for networking, product promotion, and knowledge exchange, facilitating growth and visibility for India’s agri-food sector on a global scale.
Through its participation at AAHAR 2026, APEDA showcased India’s strength in high-quality agricultural production, value addition, and export-oriented supply chains. The pavilion successfully highlighted opportunities for startups, exporters, and State agencies to expand India’s presence in international markets, emphasizing the country’s potential as a leading global player in agriculture and processed foods.
