Tamil Nadu Food Processing and Agri Export Promotion Corporation (TNAPEx, a nodal agency of the Govt. of TN, Globalizing Tamil Nadu Food Processing Businesses) in collaboration with Madurai Agribusiness Incubation Forum (NABARD MABIF) hosted a specialized workshop aimed at enhancing business export potential and product development skills at MABIF, Agricultural College & Research Institute, Madurai, on 29th June 2024.
The event featured esteemed Chief Guests, including Dr. K. Alagusundaram, MD & CEO, Tamil Nadu Food Processing & Agri Export Promotion Corporation (TNAPEx), Govt. of TN, Dr. E. Somasundaram, Director, DABD, TNAU-Coimbatore, Dr. S. Kanchana, Dean, CSC&RI-Madurai, Mr. A. S. Shakthi Balan, AGM, NABARD-Madurai, Mr. M. Suresh Kumar, ADH, TNAPEx, Dr. Sriharsha V.P., Plant Protection Officer – Madurai, and Er. Ganesh Moorthy K., CEO, NABARD MABIF.
The event was structured into two main sessions:
1.Round table discussion: About 25 food business startups along with officials of TNAPEx, TNAU and NABARD were invited for a round table discussion on the values of venturing in food processing businesses and on the challenges faced by them in the process of value-added food manufacturing and export.
2.Workshop on Agri Export Promotion and Product Development: This session included informative segments such as Export Procedure, Recent Trends in Food Processing, Phytosanitary Procedure, Branding & Packaging, and Experience Sharing by Exporters.
Key Highlights of the Program:
1.Export Opportunities in Agri & Food Sector and its Compliances: Mr. Deepanchakaravarthy, Senior Manager, TNAPEx discussed potential export markets and the necessary compliance requirements for agri and food products.
2.Building Your Own Brand – Importance of Branding and Packaging: Mr. Ashwin, Shapers Studios emphasized the significance of effective branding and packaging in the competitive food market.
3.Recent Trends in Food Processing Technology: Dr. N. Karpoora Sundara Pandian, AP, TANUVAS highlighted the latest technological advancements in food processing.
4.Plant Quarantine Regulations: Dr. Sriharsha V.P, Plant Protection Officer, explained essential regulations for plant quarantine to ensure safe export practices.
5.Experience Sharing by Successful Exporters: Mr. K. Suresh Kumar, Vice President, Agro Food Chamber of Commerce and Industry and Mr. Thirumurugan, Pandian Applam, shared their experiences and insights on navigating the export landscape.
The event saw participation from over 300 individuals, including representatives from Food Processing and Agri-export enterprises, Farmer producer organizations (FPOs), Startups and other Stakeholders.
We extend our sincere gratitude to the Tamil Nadu Food Processing & Agri Export Promotion Corporation (TNAPEx) for hosting this impactful event. Special thanks to NABARD – National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, NABARD MABIF Incubatees and all supporters for their unwavering support. NABARD MABIF feels privileged to have been a part of this enriching experience.
