The Nuts and Dry Fruits Council (India), NDFC(I), successfully showcased the expanding nuts and dry fruits industry at World Food India 2024 (WFI), a flagship event organised by the Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MOFPI) in collaboration with FICCI. During the event, NDFC(I) highlighted the importance of the sector, valued at over ₹60,000 crore at retail levels, while fostering key global partnerships and driving industry innovation.
NDFC(I)’s pavilion at World Food India presented a wide range of products and innovations, featuring contributions from nine prominent members and international partners such as Chile Prunes, Chile Walnuts, and the Australian Almond Board. These products, particularly niche offerings like energy bars and granola bars, are gaining traction in India’s growing health-conscious market.
Speaking on the significance of NDFC(I)’s participation, Gunjan Jain, President of NDFC(I), said, “World Food India provided us with a vital platform to underscore the contributions of the nuts and dry fruits sector to both India’s economy and public health. We are thrilled to showcase innovative products and strengthen our industry’s global presence through valuable international collaborations at the expo.”
The event also presented opportunities for NDFC(I) to forge partnerships with international markets while collaborating with key players from the machinery, packaging, and sustainability sectors. These collaborations enhanced the industry’s supply chain and trade practices, supporting NDFC(I)’s mission of fostering sustainable growth.
A notable moment during World Food India was the visit of Chirag Paswan and Ravneet Singh Bittu, who spent time engaging with the NDFC(I) delegation. These visits underscore the government’s interest in supporting the sector, and their involvement is expected to continue with future initiatives, including the MEWA conference.
Reflecting on the event, Rajeev Pabreja, PR Head, NDFC(I) added, “Visit by Shri Chirag Paswan, Honourble Minister of Food Processing Industries, and Shri Ravneet Singh Bittu, Honourble Minister of State, Ministry of Railways and Food Processing Industries, to our pavilion was a significant moment for NDFC(I). It reinforced the importance of government engagement in addressing industry challenges, such as regulatory frameworks and other trade barriers, as we continue our efforts to promote the growth and sustainability of the sector.”
The event was a key milestone for NDFC(I), providing its members with valuable business-to-business interactions and opportunities for collaboration. As the Council looks to the future, it remains committed to advocating for its members and promoting the nuts and dry fruits industry as a vital part of India’s economic and public health landscape.
