The Ministry of Food Processing Industries, in collaboration with APEDA, the Trade Promotion Council of India (TPCI), and the Government of Bihar, organized the International Buyer-Seller Meet on May 19–20, 2025, in Patna, Bihar. The objective of the event was to bring together key stakeholders from the food and allied sectors to promote trade, strengthen exports, and showcase Bihar’s agri-power on a global platform.
The two-day meet witnessed the participation of 70 international buyers from 20 countries, including representatives from six major global retail chains, as well as 50 domestic and 20 institutional buyers. More than 400 B2B meetings were held during the event, opening new market avenues for Bihar’s MSMEs and FPOs, creating purchase opportunities, and paving a strong path toward export growth.
Leading international companies such as Lulu Group (UAE), Sarjat (Japan), Datar & Sons (UAE), and Global Foods Trading (Germany) expressed interest in sourcing large volumes of rice, spices, makhana (fox nuts), and fruits from Bihar. Companies like Royal Golden Trading (UAE) and UVR Natural Foods (India) announced their procurement plans and recognized Bihar as a reliable sourcing hub.
During the inauguration, Union Minister Shri Chirag Paswan stated, “This is not just a trade event, but the beginning of a new chapter of rural prosperity.” Reiterating the vision of Viksit Bharat @2047, he emphasized that Bihar’s youth will become job creators rather than job seekers, and assured that every investor would receive full support and facilitation from the government.
Emphasizing Bihar’s Historical and Present Potential: Referring to Bihar’s rich legacy, the minister said, “Bihar, the land of Aryabhata, Sita Mata, Chanakya, Mahavira, and Buddha, has always guided the nation. Now, it will play a key role in making India the global food basket.” He highlighted that under the PM Formalisation of Micro Food Processing Enterprises (PMFME) scheme, 10,270 loans worth ₹624.42 crore were sanctioned in Bihar in 2024–25, the highest for any state in India.
Bihar as a Hub of Innovation and Knowledge: The minister also announced that the proposed NIFTEM institute in Bihar would become a centre of research, innovation, and training in food processing, continuing the legacy of ancient Nalanda. He extended an invitation to all stakeholders for participation in World Food India 2025.
Launch of Makhana Export Strategy and Investment Declarations: A key highlight of the meet was the launch of the report titled “Strategies to Boost India’s Makhana Exports”, aimed at expanding the global market for Bihar’s GI-tagged makhana. On this occasion, 12 companies committed to long-term procurement of rice, pulses, spices, fruits, vegetables, and makhana, reinforcing investor confidence in Bihar’s agri-export potential.
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