Bihar Set to Emerge as a Leader in High-Value, Sustainable Agri-Exports with APEDA's Regional Office in Patna

Strategic Insights -

Union Minister of Commerce & Industry, Shri Piyush Goyal, has inaugurated the Regional Office of the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) in Patna, Bihar, marking a significant step towards transforming the state into a powerhouse of agricultural and processed food exports. The new office aims to provide direct support to Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), Farmer Producer Companies (FPCs), and exporters, significantly reducing turnaround time for addressing exporter queries and strengthening coordination with state-level institutions.

Key Takeaways:

  • The establishment of APEDA's Regional Office in Patna is expected to boost Bihar's agrarian economy and increase exports of high-potential agri-produce such as Shahi Litchi, Jardalu Mango, Mithila Makhana, and Magahi Pan.
  • The new office will offer direct access to registration, advisory services, market intelligence, assistance in certification, facilitation of export procedures, market facilitation, infrastructure development, and international trade opportunities.
  • The flag-off of a 7-metric ton consignment of GI-tagged Mithila Makhana for export to New Zealand, Canada, and the USA marks the beginning of a new era for Bihar's agri-export sector.
  • The consignment was executed by a woman entrepreneur, Ms. Neha Arya, founder of Nehashi from Darbhanga, Bihar, showcasing APEDA's commitment to inclusive and gender-sensitive trade promotion.
  • Over the last three years, APEDA has implemented a comprehensive engagement strategy in Bihar to strengthen the state's agri-export ecosystem, including capacity-building programs, international visits, and strategic collaborations with state departments, universities, and agri-research bodies.
  • An International Buyer-Seller Meet (IBSM) was jointy organized by the Ministry of Food Processing Industries, APEDA, and the Government of Bihar on 19-20 May, 2025, at Gyan Bhawan in Patna, where over 70 international buyers from 22 countries participated alongside 40+ key domestic exporters, five agri trade associations, and other stakeholders.

Statistics:

  • Bihar has achieved several export milestones, including the export of GI-tagged Mithila Makhana to the UAE and USA in 2024-25.
  • GI-tagged Jardalu Mango was exported to international markets in 2023.
  • Traditional sweets like Tilkut and Til Laddu, and fruits such as Shahi Litchi, are now finding global buyers, showcasing the unique value of Bihar's indigenous produce.
  • Over 70 international buyers from 22 countries participated in the International Buyer-Seller Meet (IBSM) organized by the Ministry of Food Processing Industries, APEDA, and the Government of Bihar on 19-20 May, 2025.

Sources:

  • India Education Diary
  • Ministry of Commerce & Industry, Government of India
  • Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA)
  • Government of Bihar