On May 19, 2025, the International Buyer-Seller Meet (IBSM) 2025 was inaugurated in Patna, Bihar, by Union Minister of Food Processing Industries, Shri Chirag Paswan. Organized by the Ministry of Food Processing Industries in collaboration with APEDA, TPCI, and the Government of Bihar, the event aims to unlock Bihar’s rich agri-food ecosystem and strengthen its position in global trade.
A Platform for Global Trade
Connecting Buyers and Sellers
The IBSM 2025, held on May 19-20, 2025, brought together 70 international buyers from 20 countries, including six global retail chains, alongside 50 domestic and 20 institutional buyers. With over 400 curated B2B meetings, the event facilitated market linkages for local MSMEs and FPOs, promoting procurement of products like rice, spices, makhana, and fruits. Global players such as LuLu Group (UAE), SARTAJ (Japan), and Global Foods Trading (Germany) expressed strong interest in sourcing from Bihar.
Leadership and Vision
Driving Viksit Bihar
Shri Chirag Paswan, in his inaugural address, described the IBSM as a turning point for rural prosperity. He emphasized the government’s vision of Viksit Bharat @2047, stating, “Bihar’s youth will become job creators, not job seekers.” He highlighted Bihar’s civilizational legacy as the land of Aryabhatta, Chanakya, and Lord Buddha, positioning it as a potential growth engine for East India.
Shri Vijay Kumar Sinha, Deputy Chief Minister and Minister of Agriculture, underscored the role of the food processing sector in doubling farmers’ income. Shri Nitish Mishra, Industries Minister, highlighted the state’s investor-friendly policies, including the Single Window Clearance System for land allotment within 7 days and the Mega Food Park in Muzaffarpur.
| Participant | Role | Key Contribution |
|---|---|---|
| Shri Chirag Paswan | Union Minister | Inaugurated IBSM, emphasized Viksit Bharat |
| Shri Vijay Kumar Sinha | Deputy CM, Agriculture | Highlighted food processing for farmers’ income |
| Shri Nitish Mishra | Industries Minister | Promoted investor-friendly policies |
| Shri Abhishek Dev | Chairman, APEDA | Emphasized market access and Tracenet 2.0 |
Boosting Exports and Innovation
Leveraging Bihar’s Strengths
The event saw 12 companies committing to procure rice, pulses, spices, fruits, vegetables, and makhana, reinforcing Bihar’s role as a trusted sourcing hub. Shri Chirag Paswan launched a strategic report, “Strategies to Boost India’s Makhana Exports”, highlighting Bihar’s leadership in this GI-tagged product. The introduction of Tracenet 2.0 by APEDA enhances traceability for organic and GI-tagged products, boosting export credibility.
Empowering Rural Enterprises
PMFME Scheme Success
In 2024-25, the PMFME Scheme sanctioned a record 10,270 loans worth ₹624.42 crore to micro food processing units in Bihar, the highest in India. This reflects the government’s commitment to strengthening rural enterprises and fostering economic development. The upcoming NIFTEM in Bihar was highlighted as a modern centre of excellence for food technology research and innovation.
Looking Ahead: World Food India 2025
Global Opportunities
Shri Chirag Paswan invited stakeholders to World Food India 2025, a flagship event to showcase India’s food processing strengths. The IBSM 2025, with its technical sessions and exhibitions, is expected to catalyze partnerships and attract investments, positioning Bihar as a key player in India’s global food basket.
Key Highlights
- Inaugurated on May 19, 2025 by Shri Chirag Paswan in Patna.
- Attracted 70 international buyers from 20 countries and over 400 B2B meetings.
- 12 companies committed to sourcing rice, makhana, and other products.
- PMFME Scheme sanctioned ₹624.42 crore for Bihar’s micro units in 2024-25.
- Launch of Tracenet 2.0 and Makhana Export Strategy report.
- NIFTEM in Bihar to drive innovation in food technology.