Global Agri Products of Bihar Showcased at Inaugural International Trading Event, Expanding International Market Presence
Bihar Showcases Agricultural Export Potential at International Buyer-Seller Meet
In a significant stride towards global market integration, Bihar hosted its first International Buyer-Seller Meet (IBSM) in Patna. The event, organised by the Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MoFPI), the Government of Bihar, APEDA, and the Trade Promotion Council of India, attracted over 70 international buyers from 20 countries and more than 50 domestic buyers.
The two-day event provided a platform for Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), Self-Help Groups (SHGs), and micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to connect with global buyers. Union Minister for Food Processing Industries, Chirag Paswan, inaugurated the meet and described it as a significant step in Bihar's economic transformation.
The technical sessions, led by experts from MoFPI, APEDA, NIFTEM-Kundli, ICRIER, the Indian Institute of Packaging, EXIM Bank, and Start-Up India, focused on various aspects of agriculture and business. Topics included modern farming practices, value chain development, export preparedness, innovative packaging, organic certification, and start-up formalisation. Over 500 structured B2B meetings were conducted, creating fresh export opportunities for Bihar's signature products.
Bihar's agricultural exports are growing actively, with a strong focus on Geographical Indication (GI)-tagged products like makhana and Shahi litchi. Bihar produces about 85% of India’s makhana and contributes 71% to India's Shahi litchi production. APEDA’s establishment of a regional office in Patna aims to triple Bihar's agricultural exports from $17.6 million in 2023 over the next three years, focusing on key crops including makhana, Shahi litchi, vegetables, and maize.
While less prominently mentioned in recent Bihar export statistics, the Zardalu mango is a known regional mango variety with growing attention for GI registration and export development. Katarni rice, an aromatic rice variety from Bihar with a GI tag, holds a niche market. Though rice and other cereals are among Bihar's key exports, specific export volume data for Katarni rice and Zardalu mango for 2025 are not detailed.
The event took place in the context of Bihar's ongoing efforts to strengthen its position in global horticultural markets. Products like makhana, pulses, and lentils also attracted the attention of catering agencies in the airline and railway sectors. West African buyers showed strong interest in Sattu, a traditional high-protein food, while companies from Singapore explored commercial deals for litchis and mangoes.
A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between APEDA, the Government of Bihar, and UAE-based Lulu Group, aiming to extend the shelf life and export scope of Bihar's litchis. The technical sessions empowered local businesses to improve product quality, align with international standards, and expand into new markets.
In summary, Bihar's GI-tagged makhana and Shahi litchi are leading the growth in exports, supported by government initiatives and APEDA's presence. While Zardalu mango and Katarni rice, though GI-tagged, have less publicly highlighted export data for 2025 but are included in the state's agricultural export development programs. The event marked a significant step in Bihar's journey towards global market competitiveness.
[1] APEDA's efforts to boost Bihar's agricultural exports. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://apeda.gov.in/content/apedas-efforts-boost-bihars-agricultural-exports
[2] Bihar's Agriculture and Exports. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.bihar.gov.in/bihar-agriculture-and-exports
[3] Bihar's First International Buyer-Seller Meet. (2023, March 23). Retrieved from https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1855383
[4] Bihar's Agricultural Sector. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.bihar.gov.in/bihar-agriculture-and-allied-sectors
[5] Modernising Agriculture in Bihar. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.bihar.gov.in/modernising-agriculture-in-bihar
The International Buyer-Seller Meet has provided a platform for Bihar's agricultural exporters, including Farmer Producer Organizations and MSMEs, to connect with global buyers and expand their business in the food-and-drink sector. APEDA's initiatives, such as the establishment of a regional office in Patna, aim to boost Bihar's finance by tripling its agricultural exports in the coming years.
