TFP Bureau, Raipur, July 30, 2025: In a landmark development for Chhattisgarh’s agricultural economy, the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) is set to open a regional office in Raipur. The move comes following the persistent efforts of Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai and the Department of Industries, and has been officially approved by the Union Ministry of Commerce and Industry.
The new APEDA office will provide direct access to export services for the state’s farmers, producers, and exporters, eliminating the need to depend on offices in other states for certification, training, packaging, and export compliance procedures.
One-Stop Support for Exporters
The regional office will facilitate critical services such as phytosanitary certification, lab testing, export documentation, and quality standardisation under one roof. This will significantly reduce the time and cost involved in exporting agricultural products.
Opening Global Markets for Local Produce
With the office in place, Chhattisgarh’s agricultural commodities—including rice, fruits, vegetables, millets, and GI-tagged products—will now find easier access to international markets. This is expected to ensure better prices for producers and increased visibility for the state’s agri-produce on the global stage.
Empowering Farmers Through Training and Market Access
The regional presence of APEDA will allow farmers to receive training in modern farming, packaging, quality control, and international marketing. It will also assist startups and MSMEs in leveraging APEDA’s schemes for export promotion, skill development, and financial subsidies.
Boost to Agri-Infrastructure and Economic Growth
In addition to export facilitation, APEDA will support the development of cold chains, food processing units, and pack houses—creating a more robust agricultural export ecosystem within Chhattisgarh.
CM Sai: ‘A Gateway to Global Prosperity’
Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai expressed pride in the development, calling it a transformational step for the state’s farming and agri-business community. “The APEDA regional office will act as a vital link between Chhattisgarh and the global market. It will not only enhance the state’s export capabilities but also improve incomes and livelihoods across rural areas,” he said.
He added that the move aligns with the Centre’s ‘Vocal for Local to Global’ vision and will help establish Chhattisgarh as a key player in India’s agri-export ambitions.
