Tripura has marked a significant entry into the global agri-export market with its first-ever shipment of mustard honey to Dubai. The Dergang Farmer Producer Organisation (FPO) successfully exported one metric tonne of the state's distinctive mustard honey, an achievement announced by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry on Monday, August 10, 2026.
This landmark export was facilitated by the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), opening new international avenues for Tripura's beekeepers and agricultural producers.
New Opportunities for Beekeepers and Farmers
The successful export is anticipated to provide substantial benefits for farmers affiliated with the Dergang FPO. They are expected to achieve better price realization for their honey compared to local market rates, offering a crucial additional income stream. This initiative also aims to encourage the adoption of high-quality, export-oriented honey production practices across the state.
Support for this endeavor came from Salt Range Foods Pvt Ltd, which collaborated with Dergang FPO to bolster bee production capabilities and develop a robust supply chain for export-quality honey.
Strengthening Tripura's Agri-Export Ecosystem
The Ministry of Commerce highlighted the shipment's importance for Tripura's burgeoning agri-export sector, particularly its focus on honey and beekeeping. The state's diverse agricultural landscape, coupled with a growing emphasis on organized farmer collectives like FPOs, is seen as key to expanding the production and export of premium honey and other agricultural commodities.
This export serves as a prime example of how FPO-led aggregation, combined with strategic industry partnerships, can effectively connect local farmers with lucrative international markets. It is expected to inspire more farmers and FPOs in Tripura and the broader North Eastern Region of India to explore value addition, quality enhancement, and export opportunities for their produce.
State Minister Hails Achievement
Tripura's Agriculture Minister, Ratan Lal Nath, lauded the export as a "significant achievement" for the state's beekeepers and farmers. He emphasized the potential of local agricultural products to penetrate international markets and generate improved income prospects for farming communities.
"The first-ever export of Mustard Honey by Dergang FPO is a significant achievement for Tripura’s beekeepers and farmers. It demonstrates the potential of our local agricultural products to reach international markets and create better income opportunities for farming communities," Minister Nath stated.
Minister Nath reiterated the Tripura government's commitment to strengthening apiculture and organic agriculture, alongside assisting FPOs in accessing wider markets. He expressed optimism that coordinated efforts among farmers, FPOs, exporters, and institutions like APEDA would further enhance Tripura's presence in the global market for quality agricultural and organic products. The minister personally flagged off the consignment.