In a major milestone for India’s agricultural exports, the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) has facilitated the country’s first-ever sea shipment of botanical-infused ready-to-cook millet functional foods to New Zealand. The consignment was flagged off on June 3, 2026, marking a significant step in promoting value-added millet products in international markets.
The export consignment, weighing one metric tonne, was dispatched by Bengaluru-based M/s Infini Agrotek LLP. The shipment consists of innovative millet-based functional foods enriched with botanical ingredients, reflecting the increasing global preference for nutritious, sustainable, and health-focused food products. The development highlights the growing recognition of India’s traditional grains and their transformation into premium-value products for international consumers.
The achievement underscores the expanding opportunities for Indian exporters in the global health and wellness food segment. Millets, often referred to as “smart grains,” have gained popularity worldwide due to their rich nutritional profile, climate resilience, and suitability for sustainable agriculture. The successful export demonstrates how Indian enterprises are leveraging these advantages to create innovative products with international appeal.
According to APEDA, the export order was secured through sustained efforts in global market outreach and business networking. M/s Infini Agrotek LLP actively participated in several APEDA-supported trade promotion events, including World Food India 2025, Indus Food 2025, and Gulfood 2026. These platforms enabled the company to engage with overseas buyers, explore new markets, and showcase its product portfolio to a global audience.
The shipment was virtually flagged off by APEDA Chairman Abhishek Dev, IAS, who congratulated the company on this landmark achievement. He praised the exporter’s commitment to innovation and its success in introducing advanced millet-based products to international markets. He also encouraged the company to continue utilizing APEDA’s export promotion schemes and participate in global trade exhibitions to further strengthen its international presence.
Industry experts view the development as a positive sign for India’s growing agri-food export sector. The export of botanical-infused millet products not only opens new opportunities for food processors and exporters but also creates additional demand for millet cultivation. Increased export demand is expected to benefit farmers by providing better market access and improved income opportunities across the millet value chain.
The shipment also aligns with India’s broader efforts to position itself as a global hub for millet production and exports. Over the past few years, the government and industry stakeholders have actively promoted millet consumption and value addition through research, innovation, and market development initiatives. These efforts have contributed to expanding consumer awareness of millets both domestically and internationally.
APEDA continues to play a crucial role in supporting agricultural exports through capacity-building programs, market development activities, and participation in major domestic and international trade fairs. By facilitating connections between exporters and overseas buyers, the authority has helped Indian agricultural products gain greater visibility in competitive global markets.
The successful shipment to New Zealand is expected to encourage more Indian companies to invest in value-added millet products and explore emerging export destinations. It also demonstrates the potential of combining traditional agricultural produce with modern food innovation to meet evolving consumer preferences worldwide.
As global demand for healthy, plant-based, and sustainable food options continues to rise, India’s millet sector is well-positioned to capitalize on these trends. The export of botanical-infused functional foods represents a new chapter in the country’s agri-export journey and reinforces the growing international acceptance of Indian millet-based products.
With increasing focus on nutrition, sustainability, and food innovation, such initiatives are expected to strengthen India’s agricultural export ecosystem while enhancing the global footprint of its millet industry.
Author: Shivam
Shivam Dwivedi is a senior journalist with extensive experience in research-driven journalism, policy communication, and multi-platform storytelling. His areas of interest include international relations, defence, science & technology, education, urban development, agriculture, spirituality, and environmental sustainability. His work focuses on in-depth analysis, public discourse, and impactful narratives across governance and development sectors, with a strong commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Contact: [email protected]
