India’s agri and processed food exports cross ₹5 lakh crore: Piyush Goyal

India’s agricultural and processed food exports have crossed ₹5 lakh crore annually , signalling strong global demand for Indian farm produce and value-added food products, Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal said on Wednesday.

The milestone was highlighted during the inauguration of AAHAR 2026 , being held from March 10–14 at Bharat Mandapam , where the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) showcased India’s expanding agri-export capabilities.

Addressing industry stakeholders, Goyal said India has emerged as a major global exporter of agricultural and processed food products , with strong growth recorded in segments such as processed foods, fruits, vegetables, pulses and fisheries products. The country’s agri-export basket also prominently features Basmati rice, non-Basmati rice, organic products and plant-based foods, reflecting increasing diversification in global markets.

Major export destinations for India’s agri and processed food products include the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, United States, United Kingdom and Japan , among others. Officials said India is also expanding its presence in emerging markets across Asia, Europe and the Middle East.

The minister emphasised that India’s expanding network of Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) is creating new opportunities for farmers, exporters and food processors by enabling preferential market access in several countries. India has concluded trade agreements with partners such as the United Arab Emirates, Australia and Switzerland and other European Free Trade Association (EFTA) nations, while negotiations continue with the European Union and Canada.

At the exhibition, APEDA unveiled research reports on cucumber, cashew, pineapple and pomegranate, prepared with the Indian Council for Research on International Economic Relations (ICRIER), outlining strategies to strengthen supply chains and boost exports.

APEDA also introduced packaging design solutions and technical standards for several GI-tagged and region-specific agricultural products, developed in collaboration with the Indian Institute of Packaging, aimed at improving shelf life, protection and global market appeal.

Spread across 2,500 square metres , the APEDA pavilion at AAHAR features over 100 exhibitors , including exporters, startups and producer organisations, and showcases India’s diverse agri-food products to global buyers.

The event, organised by the India Trade Promotion Organisation (ITPO) , is one of South Asia’s largest B2B platforms for the food and hospitality industry, drawing over one lakh visitors over five days.