The International Trade Council has announced an exciting new development aimed at enhancing India's agricultural export capabilities. A call for bids has been issued for a state-of-the-art processing and storage facility designed to improve the quality and extend the shelf life of agricultural products, with the goal of increasing export volumes.
This advanced facility will provide a range of services including processing, sorting, packing, and laboratory testing, all in compliance with food safety and trade regulations. It will cater to agricultural commodities from Maharashtra and neighboring states such as Madhya Pradesh and Gujarat.
Key features of the facility will encompass cold storage for temperature-sensitive goods, pre-cooling units for perishable items, frozen storage for deep-freeze requirements, and dry warehouses for non-perishable products. It will also include dedicated storage options for imported goods, ensuring efficient handling and preservation.
Approved on July 19, this initiative is a pioneering effort in India, aiming to tackle issues related to wastage and suboptimal storage conditions while extending the shelf life of produce. The project, with an estimated cost of Rs284.19 crores, will cover 27 acres and is set to handle between 0.8 million and 1.2 million metric tonnes of agricultural cargo over a 30-year period.
Despite its status as a leading agricultural producer, India’s share in global agricultural exports remains relatively small. This new facility is expected to significantly boost the country’s export capacity, aligning with broader goals to increase agricultural exports to approximately $100 billion by 2035.
The facility is projected to generate numerous employment opportunities, enhance product quality, and stimulate rural economic growth. By addressing inefficiencies and reducing losses in the supply chain, it aims to deliver substantial cost savings and improved financial outcomes.
The private developer will be required to pay a fixed royalty and a premium per square meter for the 30-year concession, with the initial three years, including the construction phase, being royalty-free. This approach is intended to support the facility's development and operational start-up.
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