Meghalaya has initiated its first sea shipment of ginger, exporting 15 metric tons to Dubai. The Eastern Ri-Bhoi Organic Farmer Producer Company (FPC) managed this shipment with backing from the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) and the Meghalaya government. Abhishek Dev, Chairman of APEDA, stated, "Sea shipment is crucial as it ensures cost competitiveness," during the flag-off in Shillong.
This development is notable for Meghalaya's agriculture, which has faced challenges like fragmented landholding and limited market linkages. The Eastern Ri-Bhoi Organic FPC, since 2017, now aids over 500 farmers. Its processing facilities have boosted revenue from $20,400 in 2018-19 to $448,000 in 2023-24.
The Meghalaya government is also setting up an organic spice processing unit in Bhoirymbong, enhancing export capabilities. Previous exports of GI-tagged Khasi Mandarin and organic pineapple have set the stage for this ginger market expansion.
Source: India Today
