India's Agricultural Exports To Likely Reach $100 Billion By 2030: Commerce Secretary Barthwal

The secretary noted that segments such as ready-to-eat foods have great potential to grow. He called on the industry to focus on the technical standard requirements of importing countries

India’s agricultural exports are anticipated to double by 2030 and touch $100 billion, Commerce Secretary Sunil Barthwal said on Monday. The exports currently stand at more than $50 billion. 

Addressing the IndusFood Show 2024, Barthwal said, “The country is targeting $2 trillion worth of exports of goods and services by 2030. I am very sure that this $50 billion exports of India today will see a doubling of our exports by 2030 to almost $100 billion,” reported PTI. 

The secretary noted that segments such as ready-to-eat foods have great potential to grow. He called on the industry to focus on the technical standard requirements of importing countries. 

Commerce and Industry Minister, Piyush Goyal, inaugurated the event and said, “This fiscal year, the country's agri exports will be more than last year's level of $53 billion, despite restrictions imposed on shipments of certain key commodities, including rice, wheat and sugar.”

Notably, the government has imposed prohibitions on the exports of wheat and non-basmati white rice and also levied restrictions on sugar exports. 

Goyal further stressed that there is a requirement for large-scale food processing, product branding, and export focus to help give better value to the farmers, create employment opportunities, and boost the country’s income. He noted that nearly 158 food and agri products have been given Geographical Indications (GIs) tags, and 708 food items have been identified under the One District One Product (ODOP) initiative for promotion.

He urged the industry to prioritise nutrition, quality, organic ingredients, and eco-friendly packaging. 

Addressing the event, Mohit Singla, Chairman, Trade Promotion Council Of India, said, “Over 1,200 exhibitors and more than 7,500 buyers from across the world representing about 90 countries are participating in the three-day show. Over 80 retail chains, such as Choithrams, Carrefour, Khimji Ramdas, Grand Hypermarket, Nesto, Mustafa, X5, Lulu, Almaya Group, and Spar, are also participating.”