Bihar Takes Centre Stage in India's Agri-Food Export Push

Strategic Insights -

Bihar, a major agricultural state in eastern India, is at the forefront of the country's push to boost agri-food exports. The International Buyer-Seller Meet (IBSM) 2025, a two-day event organized by the Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MoFPI) and other stakeholders, has commenced in Patna, bringing together 70 international buyers from 20 countries and 70 domestic buyers. The event aims to facilitate global trade linkages and unlock Bihar's rich agricultural potential. Union Minister of Food Processing Industries Chirag Paswan described the meet as a "turning point for rural prosperity" and emphasized the government's commitment to making Bihar a hub in India's journey towards 'Viksit Bharat @2047'.

Key Takeaways:

  • The IBSM 2025 has attracted 70 international buyers from 20 countries, including six global retail chains, and 50 domestic buyers.
  • Products such as rice, spices, makhana, and fruits are in focus, with global players showing strong sourcing interest.
  • Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Kumar Sinha highlighted food processing as the best way to double farmers' income.
  • Industries Minister Nitish Mishra spoke about the Muzaffarpur Mega Food Park and rapid land allotment through Bihar's Single Window Clearance System.
  • APEDA Chairman Abhishek Dev emphasized that efforts like Tracenet 2.0 will enhance traceability and export readiness of Indian produce.
  • So far, 12 companies have confirmed long-term procurement commitments across rice, pulses, spices, fruits, vegetables, and makhana.
  • The IBSM 2025 includes exhibitions, technical sessions, and investment discussions to catalyse partnerships and promote Bihar's food processing ecosystem.

Statistics:

  • Rs.624.42 crore worth of loans were sanctioned under the PMFME Scheme in Bihar in FY 2024-25.
  • 10,270 loans worth Rs.624.42 crore were sanctioned in Bihar, the highest among all Indian states.
  • 400+ curated B2B meetings are expected to take place during the meet.
  • 20 countries are represented by 70 international buyers.

Sources:

  • Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MoFPI)
  • APEDA (Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority)
  • TPCI (The Trade Promotion Council of India)
  • Bihar Government
  • Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from The Indian Awaz.