On 21st May, 2025, the Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MoFPI), in collaboration with the Government of Bihar, APEDA, and the Trade Promotion Council of India (TPCI), concluded the first-ever International Buyer-Seller Meet (IBSM) in Patna at Gyan Bhawan. This two-day event marked a historic milestone in positioning Bihar as a key player in the global agri-food economy.
A Vision for Bihar’s Economic Resurgence
Transformative Leadership
Union Minister for Food Processing Industries Shri Chirag Paswan delivered a visionary address, describing the IBSM as a defining moment for Bihar’s economic growth. He emphasized empowering the state’s youth as job creators and promoting local crops like GI-tagged makhana, Shahi litchi, Zardalu mango, and Katarni rice for global recognition. The event aligned with the broader vision of Viksit Bharat, showcasing Bihar’s civilizational legacy and entrepreneurial potential.
Global Engagement and Trade Opportunities
Connecting Local Producers to International Markets
The IBSM facilitated over 500 structured B2B meetings, connecting MSMEs, FPOs, and SHGs with more than 70 international buyers from 20 countries, including the UAE, Singapore, Japan, and Germany, alongside 50 domestic and 20 institutional buyers. Key outcomes included:
- Interest from West African buyers in Sattu, a high-protein traditional food.
- Discussions with Singapore-based firms for litchi and mango supply contracts.
- Exploration by airline and railway catering entities for sourcing makhana, rice, and pulses.
A significant highlight was the signing of an MoU on 21st May, 2025, between APEDA, the Government of Bihar, and UAE-based Lulu Group to enhance the shelf life and export potential of Bihar’s litchis.
Capacity Building and Empowerment
Equipping Local Entrepreneurs
The IBSM included a capacity-building program to empower micro-entrepreneurs, FPOs, and SHGs. Experts from MoFPI, APEDA, NIFTEM-Kundli, and EXIM Bank conducted sessions on innovative cultivation, value chain development, export preparedness, and organic certification. The PMFME scheme, which sanctioned the highest number of units in Bihar during FY 2024–25, was highlighted to boost local food processing competitiveness.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Event Date | 21st May, 2025 |
| Location | Gyan Bhawan, Patna |
| Participants | 70+ international buyers, 50 domestic buyers, 20 institutional buyers |
| Key Products | Makhana, Shahi litchi, Zardalu mango, Katarni rice, Sattu |
| MoU Signed | APEDA, Bihar Government, Lulu Group for litchi exports |
Showcasing Bihar’s Agri-Food Ecosystem
Public Exhibition and Global Ambition
The event featured a public exhibition with over 120 exhibitors, showcasing Bihar’s agri-food ecosystem. From women-led SHGs to emerging exporters, the exhibition highlighted the state’s potential to integrate into global value chains. It served as a platform for grassroots enterprises to connect with national and international brands, reinforcing Bihar’s role in India’s food diplomacy.
Relevance for Competitive Exams
Key Takeaways for Aspirants
For students preparing for competitive exams such as UPSC, SSC, or State PSC, the International Buyer-Seller Meet is a significant topic under agriculture, food processing, and current affairs. Aspirants should focus on:
- The role of MoFPI and APEDA in promoting agri-food exports.
- The impact of the PMFME scheme on MSMEs and FPOs.
- Bihar’s GI-tagged products and their export potential.
- The concept of cooperative federalism in driving regional economic growth.
This event underscores India’s evolving approach to food diplomacy and economic transformation.
Key Highlights
- Bihar hosted its first International Buyer-Seller Meet on 21st May, 2025, in Patna.
- Over 500 B2B meetings connected MSMEs and FPOs with 70+ international buyers from 20 countries.
- An MoU was signed with Lulu Group to boost litchi exports.
- The PMFME scheme and capacity-building programs enhanced Bihar’s food processing competitiveness.
- Relevant for competitive exams under agriculture, food processing, and current affairs.