"APEDA plans to identify and nurture 25 promising agri startups across India"

India's agricultural exports to the US have grown strongly in early 2025 and are expected to hit record levels this year. This is despite the US tariffs, that've hit 50 per cent, creating pressure and uncertainty in its wake. In an exclusive interview with AgroSpectrum, Abhishek Dev, Chairman, APEDA shares key insights into the strategies to scale up India’s agri-export footprint amidst the US tariff and the sectors that will fuel the next wave of growth. Edited excerpts:

- Dipti Barve

How is the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) contributing toward the diversification of the agri export basket to compete in the global market?

APEDA has spearheaded a remarkable transformation, as its scheduled products exports have emerged from a modest $0.6 billion in 1987-88 to a staggering $28.60 billion in FY 2024-25. This exponential growth underscores APEDA's relentless commitment to diversifying and expanding India's export basket across over 200 countries.

APEDA is also driving product diversification by introducing unique regional offerings. Recent flag-offs include fresh ginger from Meghalaya, GI tagged Waigaon turmeric from Maharashtra, Sunderja mangoes from Madhya Pradesh, Mithila makhana from Bihar, aromatic Joha rice from Assam, rose scented litchi from Punjab, and Jamun from Karnataka. These initiatives highlight APEDA’s commitment to expanding India’s agricultural export portfolio.

APEDA’s commitment to diversifying India’s agricultural export portfolio is reflected in its strategic focus on priority commodities like fresh fruits, vegetables, Shree Anna (millets), and Organic products.

For development of innovative value-added products, R&D projects have been initiated and are underway with Indian Institute of Millet Research (IIMR) & the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI).

Which are potential key markets India is looking for expanding its agri export and which agri commodities are gaining demand in these key markets?

Exports are primarily concentrated in Gulf and South Asian countries. To further enhance market reach, APEDA is focusing on diversifying export destinations by targeting untapped regions, including the European Union, USA, Canada, Russia, Japan, and South Korea, unlocking new opportunities for Indian agricultural products globally.