Tripura FPO exports mustard honey to Dubai for the first time

APEDA has facilitated the first-ever export of 1 metric tonne (MT) of mustard honey by Dergang Farmer Producer Organisation (FPO) from Tripura to Dubai. The shipment marks the first export of mustard honey from the area and creates an opportunity for local farmers and beekeepers to access international markets.

The export is expected to open new avenues for diversification of Tripura’s honey value chain and encourage local farmers and FPOs to explore export opportunities. It is also expected to strengthen their participation in international agricultural markets.

For farmers associated with Dergang FPO, the export is expected to provide better price realisation compared with prevailing local market opportunities. Improved access to international markets can provide an additional income avenue for beekeepers while encouraging quality-focused and export-oriented honey production practices.

The initiative was supported by Salt Range Foods, which has been working with Dergang FPO to strengthen bee production and develop an export-oriented honey supply. The collaboration has helped the FPO take its first step towards international market access and provided farmers with a structured opportunity to participate in the export value chain.

The development is also significant for Tripura’s emerging agri-export ecosystem, particularly its honey and beekeeping sector. The state’s agricultural landscape and growing focus on organised farmer collectives provide opportunities to expand the production and export of quality honey and other agricultural products.

The export also highlights the role of FPO-led aggregation and industry collaboration in connecting farmers with international markets. It is expected to encourage more FPOs and farmers in Tripura and the wider North Eastern Region to explore value addition, quality improvement and export opportunities.

Tripura Agriculture Minister Ratan Lal Nath said the first export of mustard honey by Dergang FPO was a significant achievement for the state’s beekeepers and farmers. He said it demonstrated the potential of local agricultural products to reach international markets and create better income opportunities for farming communities.

Nath added that the Government of Tripura remains committed to strengthening apiculture and organic agriculture while supporting FPOs in accessing wider markets. He said coordinated efforts by farmers, FPOs, exporters and institutions such as APEDA could help Tripura expand its presence in the global market for quality agricultural and organic products.

The export consignment was flagged off by Nath. The ceremony was attended by Apurba Roy, Secretary, Agriculture & Horticulture, Government of Tripura; Jennifer Chang, Executive Director, IFOAM Organics Asia; senior APEDA officials; representatives of the exporter and logistics partners; and beekeepers from the region.

APEDA continues to work with state governments, FPOs, exporters, processors and other stakeholders to facilitate agricultural exports from the North Eastern Region through market linkages, capacity building, quality assurance and export facilitation.