1 MT export opens new international market opportunities for Dergang FPO and local beekeepers

APEDA facilitated the first-ever export of 1 Metric Tonne of Mustard Honey by Dergang Farmer Producer Organisation (FPO) from Tripura to Dubai. The export marks a new milestone for the FPO and the region by creating an opportunity for local beekeepers and farmers to access international markets through organised export-oriented production.

The shipment represents the first-ever export of Mustard Honey from the area and opens new avenues for diversification of Tripura's honey value chain. The initiative is expected to encourage local farmers and FPOs to explore export opportunities and strengthen their participation in international agricultural markets.

The export is expected to provide farmers associated with Dergang FPO with improved price realisation compared to prevailing local market opportunities. Better market access through exports can provide an additional income avenue for beekeepers while encouraging greater adoption of quality-focused and export-oriented honey production practices.

The initiative was supported and hand-held by M/s Salt Range Foods Pvt. Ltd. which has been working with Dergang FPO to strengthen bee production and facilitate the development of export-oriented honey supply. The collaboration has enabled the FPO to take its first step towards international market access while creating a structured opportunity for farmers to participate in the export value chain.

The milestone is significant for Tripura's emerging agri-export ecosystem, particularly for the development of its honey and beekeeping sector. The state's diverse agricultural landscape and growing focus on organised farmer collectives offer considerable potential for expanding the production and export of quality honey and other agricultural products.

The export of Mustard Honey demonstrates the potential of FPO-led aggregation and industry collaboration in connecting farmers with international markets. It is expected to encourage more FPOs and farmers in Tripura and the wider North Eastern Region to explore value addition, quality improvement and export opportunities.

Encouraging the initiative, Agriculture Minister Shri Ratan Lal Nath, said, “The first-ever export of Mustard Honey by Dergang FPO is a significant achievement for Tripura’s beekeepers and farmers. It demonstrates the potential of our local agricultural products to reach international markets and create better income opportunities for farming communities. The Government of Tripura remains committed to strengthening apiculture and organic agriculture while supporting Farmer Producer Organisations in accessing wider markets. With coordinated efforts by farmers, FPOs, exporters and institutions such as APEDA, Tripura can further expand its presence in the global market for quality agricultural and organic products.”

The export consignment was flagged off by Agriculture Minister, Government of Tripura Shri Ratan Lal Nath. The ceremony was attended by Secretary, Agriculture & Horticulture, Government of Tripura Shri Apurba Roy, IAS, Executive Director, IFOAM Organics Asia Ms Jennifer Chang, senior officers from APEDA, representatives of the exporter, logistics partners and progressive beekeepers from the region.

APEDA continues to work with State Governments, FPOs, exporters, processors and other stakeholders to facilitate agricultural exports from the North Eastern Region through market linkages, capacity building, quality assurance and export facilitation. Such initiatives contribute to creating sustainable market opportunities for farmers while expanding the global footprint of India's diverse agricultural products.