Tripura has entered a new export market with the first-ever international shipment of mustard honey from the state to Dubai, opening fresh opportunities for local beekeepers and farmers.
The Dergang Farmer Producer Organisation (FPO) exported 1 metric tonne of mustard honey to Dubai, with the shipment facilitated by the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA). The consignment marks the first international export of mustard honey from the region.
The export is expected to strengthen Tripura’s emerging honey and beekeeping sector by connecting local producers with overseas buyers. Access to international markets could also improve price realisation for farmers and provide an additional income stream for beekeepers associated with the FPO.
The initiative was supported by Salt Range Foods Pvt. Ltd., which has been working with Dergang FPO to strengthen bee production and develop an export-oriented honey supply chain. The collaboration helped the farmer organisation aggregate production and meet the requirements for entering international markets.
The shipment also highlights the role of FPOs in helping small farmers participate in global trade. By aggregating produce, improving quality and establishing structured supply chains, farmer organisations can make it easier for individual beekeepers to access international markets.
Tripura Agriculture Minister Ratan Lal Nath described the first export as a significant achievement for the state’s beekeepers and farmers. He said the development demonstrates the potential of local agricultural products to reach global markets and create better income opportunities for farming communities.
The Dubai shipment is expected to encourage more farmers and FPOs in Tripura and other parts of the Northeast to explore agricultural export opportunities. It could also promote greater focus on quality improvement, value addition and export-oriented production.
APEDA continues to work with state governments, FPOs, exporters and processors to develop market linkages and facilitate agricultural exports from the Northeast. The mustard honey shipment is therefore seen as an important step in expanding Tripura’s presence in international agricultural markets.