Shillong, Oct 1: Meghalaya’s organic pineapples, Lakadong turmeric and Ryndia textile can fetch better prices globally – but only if entrepreneurs meet global packaging and paperwork standards.
To bridge this gap, the Medium Small and Micro Enterprises-DFO, Shillong under the Ministry of MSME, in association with the Commerce & Industries Department organised a seminar on export promotion, packaging and documentation on Thursday at All Saints’ Hall, here.
The programme targeted MSMEs, entrepreneurs, FPOs and artisans, creating awareness on export opportunities, documentation, packaging standards, APEDA schemes, ECGC support and Dak Ghar Niryat Kendra facilitation under the District as Export Hub initiative.
Commissioner & Secretary Cyril V. Darlong Diengdoh and East Khasi Hills Deputy Commissioner Abhilash Baranwal attended as guests.
Addressing the gathering, Diengdoh said Meghalaya has immense export potential. “The state’s unique products like pineapple, orange, Lakadong turmeric and Ryndia should reach markets where they are valued and get better prices,” he said.
He added that every country has strict quality and documentation requirements and such seminars bridge the gap. He urged entrepreneurs to produce at global standards and informed that the government is planning more integrated check posts along the India-Bangladesh border to facilitate exports.
Baranwal said it is high time entrepreneurs capitalise on the growing interest in Meghalaya products.
“Our products are organic and distinctive. But to go from a village to a foreign consumer, it needs certification, branding and proper packaging,” Baranwal said.
