Shillong: A significant step towards enhancing global trade partnerships has commenced as an agricultural delegation from Meghalaya arrived in Dubai for a three-day market exposure visit, lasting from March 16th to 18th.
The initiative, orchestrated by the Meghalaya State Agricultural Marketing Board (MSAMB) under the Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, is strategically designed to bolster trade relations, promote the state’s organic agricultural produce, and grant local farmers invaluable direct exposure to international markets.
Recognizing agriculture as the cornerstone of Meghalaya’s economy, the state has been proactively working to integrate its farming community into the lucrative realms of high-value global supply chains. The United Arab Emirates (UAE), with its strategic position as a vital trade hub and its robust demand for organic and premium agricultural products, has been identified as a pivotal market for Meghalaya’s produce. The current visit is anticipated to significantly amplify Meghalaya’s agribusiness footprint, unlock new export avenues, and ultimately drive up the income of the state’s farmers.
Meghalaya has achieved notable progress in agricultural development, placing a strong emphasis on organic farming practices, value-added processing, and the branding of its high-quality produce. Products that have already made their mark in international markets include the geographically indicated (GI) tagged Khasi Mandarin, Lakadong Turmeric, organic Ginger, and Pineapple.
A landmark moment occurred in November 2023 when MSAMB forged a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Lulu Group International, paving the way for the export of these distinguished products to Dubai. This current Dubai visit is intended to further capitalize on this success by identifying fresh market opportunities and solidifying existing trade relationships.
The delegation, which includes senior government officials, representatives from Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), and agribusiness entrepreneurs, is scheduled to participate in key events. These include a product showcase at Our Wellness Village Café in Sharjah on March 17th and a promotional event at Lulu Hypermarket, Silicon Oasis, Dubai, on March 18th. These events will serve to highlight Meghalaya’s organic and GI-tagged products, facilitate engagement with buyers and retailers, and establish new and vital business connections.
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