Guwahati: Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal advised spice exporters on Monday to strive to preserve their comparative edge in order to support the spice sector's growth.

The Minister interacted with the representatives of spice producers and exporters at the Spices Board's headquarters in Kochi.

"As the globe moves toward food safety and quality products, the farmer community must investigate the possibility of natural farming practices," he stated.

The Union Minister urged stakeholders to place a premium on quality and value in order to achieve long-term growth. The minister further urged the spice community to maintain the best standards in production, processing, and value addition in order to make India's spice brand shine internationally. He also promised to assist spice farmers across India in achieving higher prices.

Several concerns concerning spices and their exports were addressed. AG Thankappan, Chairman of the Spices Board, and D Sathyan, Secretary of the Spices Board, were both present.

"Since 2014, spice exports have increased significantly. Ways to boost exports were reviewed in a meeting with the Spices Board and industry stakeholders. GI-tagged varieties have commercial potential that can be exploited if more markets open up for farmers through FTAs "Goyal sent a tweet. Goyal commented on India's goals for marine product exports, stating that India's goal is to double marine product exports to Rs. One lakh crore from the current level of over Rs. 50,000 crore during the next five years.

"This aim will be met by assuring quality and diversity, promoting coastal shipping and aquaculture, and supporting the overall fisheries environment," he stated.

The Minister also met with rubber industry stakeholders at MPEDA. He pledged the government's support for the continued growth of the industry and urged all stakeholders to work together to make India self-sufficient in rubber.