FIEO Charts Roadmap to Double Northeast’s Exports by 2030

The Federation of Indian Export Organisations (FIEO) has laid out a comprehensive strategy to boost exports from the Northeastern region, with a focus on infrastructure development, value addition, capacity building, and enhanced market access to Southeast Asia.

Kaushik Dutta, Regional Head of FIEO (Northeast), revealed that the organization is targeting to double the region’s exports by 2030, from the current FY 2024–25 (April–January) figure of Rs 4,257 crore.

Kaushik Dutta highlighted the region’s rich production of unique horticultural crops like passion fruit, kiwi, and chow-chow, which have significant export potential but remain underrepresented in global markets. “The key is infrastructure development, especially at the farm gate. We’re advocating for modernisation of best practices, building cold chains, and sensitizing stakeholders at the district level,” he said.

With the Northeast’s geographical proximity to ASEAN countries, Dutta said connectivity is crucial. “LGBI Airport in Guwahati, the only EDI-enabled airport in the region, currently has direct flights to Singapore. We’re optimistic that more ASEAN destinations will be added soon. This will be a game-changer in reducing time-to-market for perishable produce,” he added.

FIEO is also strengthening the region’s exporter base through workshops, seminars, and hands-on training sessions focused on international trade, export documentation, and compliance. “Equipping our entrepreneurs and farmers with the right knowledge is vital for competing in global markets,” Dutta said.

One of the major thrust areas is product diversification and value addition. “We’re working closely with state governments to train farmers and entrepreneurs in value-added processing and help them secure the necessary licenses. We’ve also conducted several workshops on GI-tagged products of the region,” he noted.
Despite the potential, Dutta acknowledged the logistical challenges of being landlocked, which increases transport costs. “ICD Amingaon remains the region’s only dry port and is mainly used for bulk tea shipments. For perishables, air transport is the only option — though expensive. The alternative is to enhance shelf life through value addition, making it viable to ship through mainland seaports,” he explained.

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Looking ahead, FIEO is optimistic about Northeast India’s export trajectory. “By 2030, our goal is to double the region’s current export volume. With focused infrastructure upgrades, improved connectivity, and a skilled exporter base, this is an achievable target,” Dutta said.

He also reminded exporters of FIEO’s role in issuing the Certificate of Origin, a critical document in international trade. “Exporters can approach our Guwahati office to obtain this certificate,” he added.

As Northeast India gears up to expand its presence in global markets, FIEO’s strategic push offers a structured and optimistic pathway for the region’s exporters, farmers, and entrepreneurs.