SHILLONG, Feb 26: Meghalaya has shipped its first-ever sea export of ginger to Dubai. This 15-metric-ton shipment connects local farmers to international markets.
The shipment, arranged by the Eastern Ri-Bhoi Organic Farmer Producer Company (FPC), was made possible with the support from the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) and the Meghalaya government.
At the flag-off ceremony in Shillong, APEDA Chairman Abhishek Dev highlighted the importance of sea exports in reducing costs. “Sea shipment is crucial for maintaining cost competitiveness in the global market,” he said. “With a strict sea protocol and collaboration among stakeholders, I am certain that our shipments will make a mark in the UAE market.”
For Meghalaya’s farmers, this development reduces reliance on middlemen, improves market access, and provides direct connections with international buyers.
The Eastern Ri-Bhoi Organic FPC, established in 2017, has expanded to support 500 farmers across nine villages. Over the years, its processing units have grown, leading to a revenue increase from Rs 17 lakh in 2018-19 to Rs 374 lakh in 2023-24.
To further enhance agricultural exports, the Meghalaya government is developing an organically certified spice processing plant in Bhoirymbong, Ri-Bhoi.
The Rs 21-crore facility will process over 10,000 metric tons of spices annually. It is expected to benefit 5,500 organic farmers by providing direct access to international markets.
