Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal on Thursday chaired key meetings focused on improving farmers’ livelihoods, strengthening India’s role in the global agriculture sector, and expanding agricultural cooperation with African nations.

Sharing details on social media platform X, Goyal said he met Dr MJ Khan, Chairman of the Indian Chamber of Food & Agriculture, to deliberate on initiatives aimed at enhancing the quality of life of farmers and deepening India’s agricultural partnerships globally.

Held a meeting with Dr. MJ Khan, Chairman of the Indian Chamber of Food & Agriculture (@ICFAgri).

Discussed initiatives to further enhance the quality of life of our farmers, strengthen India’s position in the global agriculture landscape, deepen collaboration with the African… pic.twitter.com/VrsFurPgXV

— Piyush Goyal (@PiyushGoyal) May 7, 2026

According to the minister, discussions also centred on increasing India’s influence in the international agriculture landscape and exploring long-term strategies for food security. The meeting further examined opportunities to strengthen collaboration with countries in the African region by sharing India’s agricultural expertise and technology.

Focus On Global Agricultural Cooperation

In his post, Goyal stated that the discussions covered “new pathways to enhance agricultural cooperation for long-term food security.” The government has increasingly been focusing on strengthening ties with African nations in sectors such as food processing, irrigation, agri-technology and sustainable farming practices.

India has been expanding its agricultural diplomacy in recent years through partnerships involving training, technology transfer and food supply cooperation. Experts believe such collaborations could help India widen its export markets while also contributing to global food resilience.

The interaction with the Indian Chamber of Food & Agriculture also comes at a time when the Centre is pushing for higher agricultural productivity and better global market access for Indian produce.

SPS Approval Roadmap For Exports

In a separate development, Goyal chaired another meeting on Thursday to prepare a roadmap for securing Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) approvals for Indian agricultural and fisheries products in international markets.

SPS measures are internationally recognised standards related to food safety and the health of plants and animals. These regulations are implemented by importing countries to ensure that agricultural and fisheries products are free from harmful pests, diseases, contaminants and excessive chemical residues.

The minister said the roadmap is aimed at boosting exports of Indian farm and fisheries products while improving income opportunities for farmers and fisherfolk. The initiative is also expected to support the food processing industry by facilitating smoother access to global markets.

Export Growth And Farmer Income

India has been working to diversify its agricultural exports amid rising global demand for food products, seafood and processed items. However, SPS compliance remains one of the major challenges for exporters seeking entry into developed and tightly regulated markets.

Government officials believe that a structured strategy to obtain SPS approvals could significantly improve the competitiveness of Indian products overseas. This may particularly benefit sectors such as marine exports, fruits, vegetables, spices and processed foods.

The Centre has repeatedly emphasised that increasing exports and strengthening value-added food processing can contribute to higher rural incomes and greater economic opportunities for farming communities across the country.

Long or Short, get news the way you like. No ads. No redirections. Download Newspin and Stay Alert, The CSR Journal Mobile app, for fast, crisp, clean updates!

App Store –  https://apps.apple.com/in/app/newspin/id6746449540 

Google Play Store – https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.inventifweb.newspin&pcampaignid=web_share