Shillong: The Spices Board, a body under the central government, on Friday organized a dynamic buyer-seller meeting in Shillong to showcase the rich spices cultivated in the Northeast.

Held at the prestigious state convention centre in the Meghalaya capital, the event served as a pivotal platform for stakeholders to converge and explore the myriad opportunities within the spice industry, said an official. 

Esteemed guests, including Sherry Lalthangzo, the Director (Administration) of the North Eastern Council Secretariat, and K.N. Kumar, chairman of the Meghalaya Farmers (empowerment) Commission, graced the occasion. 

"Led by visionaries at the Spices Board, including D Sathiyan secretary, and B.N. Jha, director (marketing), this initiative aimed to foster direct and effective linkages among growers, buyers, and enthusiasts alike", the official release said. By facilitating dialogue and collaboration, such gathering catalyze innovation, market expansion, and sustainable growth within the spice sector. 

The event saw the participation of over 150 attendees representing diverse regions of India and underscored the shared enthusiasm and commitment towards elevating the Northeast's spices onto a global stage, officials said.

It needs mention here that the Northeast is known as a major hub of major spices like large cardamom, ginger, turmeric, black pepper, chilli, and bay leaf, which are in great demand across the world. In Meghalaya, there is immense export potential for the premier Lakadong Turmeric which recently got a geographical indication (GI). According to the Spices Board, spices worth Rs 7.15 crore were exported from the region in 2021-22.

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