APEDA BHARATI Agri-Food Exports has emerged as a major step towards strengthening India’s position in global agricultural trade. The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) has launched a new initiative called BHARATI to support agri-food and agri-tech startups and help them grow through innovation and exports. At a time when global trade conditions are changing rapidly, this programme aims to create fresh opportunities for young entrepreneurs while boosting India’s value-added agricultural exports.

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APEDA BHARATI Agri-Food Exports: A New Initiative for Innovation and Exports

APEDA BHARATI Agri-Food Exports is built around the idea that innovation and exports must go hand in hand. The BHARATI initiative stands for Bharat’s Hub for Agritech, Resilience, Advancement and Incubation for Export Enablement. Through this platform, APEDA wants to identify promising startups in the agri-food and agri-tech space and guide them towards export readiness.

According to APEDA Chairman Abhishek Dev, the programme focuses on connecting new ideas with real market opportunities. Many Indian startups have strong products and technologies but lack access to global markets. BHARATI aims to bridge this gap by providing structured support, mentoring, and international exposure.

APEDA BHARATI Agri-Food Exports Supporting Agri-Food and Agri-Tech Startups

One of the key goals of APEDA BHARATI Agri-Food Exports is to strengthen the startup ecosystem in agriculture. The initiative will select the top 10 agri-food and agri-tech startups from across the country. These startups will be chosen based on innovation, scalability, and export potential.

Once selected, startups will receive support to improve product quality, packaging, compliance with international standards, and branding. This support is crucial because global markets demand high levels of quality and consistency. By preparing startups for these requirements, APEDA aims to make Indian products more competitive worldwide.

APEDA BHARATI Agri-Food Exports and Global Exposure for Market Access

Global exposure is a central pillar of APEDA BHARATI Agri-Food Exports. Under the programme, selected startups will get opportunities to showcase their products at international trade platforms and exhibitions. This exposure allows startups to connect directly with overseas buyers, investors, and strategic partners.

Such interactions can open doors to new export contracts and long-term partnerships. For agri-tech startups, it also means visibility for innovative solutions in areas such as food processing, supply chain management, sustainability, and farm technology. Over time, this can help position India as a source of not just raw agricultural produce but also advanced agri solutions.

Strengthening India’s Value-Added Exports

APEDA BHARATI Agri-Food Exports places strong emphasis on value-added agricultural products. Instead of exporting only raw commodities, the focus is on processed foods, branded items, and technology-driven solutions. Value addition increases export earnings and creates more jobs across the supply chain.

Products such as processed fruits and vegetables, ready-to-eat foods, organic products, and specialty items have growing demand in global markets. By promoting these segments, APEDA aims to enhance India’s image as a reliable supplier of high-quality agri-food products.

Resilient Growth in Agri Exports

India’s agricultural exports have shown steady growth despite global uncertainties. APEDA BHARATI Agri-Food Exports comes at a time when export numbers reflect resilience and confidence. During April to November 2025–26, APEDA-promoted exports recorded growth of around 7 per cent, reaching $18.6 billion.

In the previous financial year, agricultural exports stood at $28.5 billion. Officials expect that total APEDA exports will cross the $30 billion mark in the current fiscal year. This positive outlook highlights the importance of continued policy support and innovation-driven initiatives like BHARATI.

Role of APEDA in Export Promotion

APEDA functions under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry and plays a key role in promoting India’s agricultural exports. Over the years, it has supported exporters through market development, infrastructure support, quality control, and participation in international fairs.

With APEDA BHARATI Agri-Food Exports, the authority is expanding its focus to include startups and innovation. This shift reflects the changing nature of global trade, where technology, branding, and sustainability are becoming as important as production volumes.

Announcement at Indusfood 2026

The BHARATI initiative was announced on the sidelines of Indusfood 2026, a major global food and beverages exhibition held in Greater Noida. The event was organised by the Trade Promotion Council of India and attracted participants from over 120 countries.

With more than 2,200 exhibitors and around 15,000 buyers and trade visitors, Indusfood 2026 highlighted India’s growing role in the global agri-food value chain. The announcement of APEDA BHARATI Agri-Food Exports at this platform ensured strong international visibility and interest.

Building Long-Term Export Capability

Beyond immediate export opportunities, APEDA BHARATI Agri-Food Exports aims to build long-term capability within the startup ecosystem. By focusing on resilience, advancement, and incubation, the programme encourages sustainable growth rather than short-term gains.

Startups supported under BHARATI are expected to develop products and solutions that can adapt to changing global regulations, consumer preferences, and environmental challenges. This approach aligns with India’s broader vision of becoming a global leader in sustainable and innovative agriculture.

A Forward-Looking Step for Indian Agriculture

APEDA BHARATI Agri-Food Exports represents a forward-looking approach to agricultural trade. By bringing together startups, innovation, and global markets, the initiative addresses key challenges faced by the agri sector. It also creates new pathways for young entrepreneurs to contribute to India’s export growth.

As global demand for safe, high-quality, and sustainable food continues to rise, initiatives like BHARATI can help Indian agri-food and agri-tech startups capture new opportunities. With strong export performance and targeted support, APEDA’s latest move is set to play an important role in shaping the future of India’s agri exports.