APEDA (Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority) facilitated the first-ever export of 1 Metric Tonne of Mustard Honey by Dergang Farmer Producer Organisation (FPO) from Tripura to Dubai. This landmark shipment represents the inaugural export of Mustard Honey from the region and opens new international market opportunities for both the FPO and local beekeepers.
The export initiative is expected to provide farmers associated with Dergang FPO with improved price realization compared to prevailing local market opportunities, creating an additional income avenue for beekeepers while encouraging greater adoption of quality-focused and export-oriented honey production practices. The collaboration was supported by M/s Salt Range Foods Pvt. Ltd., which has been working with Dergang FPO to strengthen bee production and facilitate the development of export-oriented honey supply chains.
The milestone is significant for Tripura's emerging agri-export ecosystem, particularly for the development of its honey and beekeeping sector. The state's diverse agricultural landscape and growing focus on organised farmer collectives offer considerable potential for expanding production and export of quality honey and other agricultural products. The export demonstrates the potential of FPO-led aggregation and industry collaboration in connecting farmers with international markets.
Agriculture Minister Shri Ratan Lal Nath flagged off the export consignment at a ceremony attended by Secretary of Agriculture & Horticulture (Government of Tripura) Shri Apurba Roy, IAS, Executive Director of IFOAM Organics Asia Ms Jennifer Chang, senior officers from APEDA, representatives of the exporter, logistics partners, and progressive beekeepers from the region. The minister emphasized that this achievement demonstrates the potential of Tripura's local agricultural products to reach international markets and create better income opportunities for farming communities.
APEDA continues to work with State Governments, FPOs, exporters, processors, and other stakeholders to facilitate agricultural exports from the North Eastern Region through market linkages, capacity building, quality assurance, and export facilitation. Such initiatives contribute to creating sustainable market opportunities for farmers while expanding the global footprint of India's diverse agricultural products.