Punjab’s Agricultural Strength Must Reach Global Markets Through Value Addition & Strong Branding: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann

The launch of the two new products marks an expansion of MARKFED’s ready-to-use canned food portfolio, catering to international demand for convenient food products while creating opportunities to take Punjab’s agricultural produce to new markets. The products, comprising chickpeas and red kidney beans preserved in brine, complement MARKFED’s existing range of Punjabi ready-to-eat dishes and processed food products under the SOHNA brand. The initiative reflects the State Government’s focus on moving beyond conventional agricultural production towards processing, value addition, modern packaging, branding and export-oriented manufacturing.

During his visit, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann highlighted the role of MARKFED, Milkfed, which markets its products under the Verka brand, and Punjab Agro in strengthening the State’s agricultural economy. Their products are being showcased collectively under the Punjab Mart umbrella at SIAL Paris 2026, bringing together two of Punjab’s apex cooperative federations and a State Government undertaking on a common international platform. The initiative highlights the State’s efforts to improve market access for agricultural produce, promote crop diversification, strengthen food processing and create greater value for farmers.

Addressing the gathering at the MARKFED stall, the Chief Minister said, “Punjab has always been the food basket of India, and our vision is to make it a globally recognised hub for quality food products, value-added agriculture and modern manufacturing. Our farmers, entrepreneurs and industries have tremendous potential to compete in international markets. Through initiatives like SIAL Paris, we are opening new doors for Punjab’s products, creating global business linkages and bringing international opportunities closer to our people.”

The Chief Minister said, “Punjab has always been the food basket of India, and our vision is to take the State’s agricultural produce and traditional food products to consumers across the world. By promoting value addition, modern food processing, quality packaging and stronger global market linkages, we aim to create greater opportunities for our farmers, cooperatives, entrepreneurs and exporters. Our participation in SIAL Paris reflects our commitment to showcasing Punjab’s rich agricultural heritage, expanding the reach of our homegrown brands and ensuring that the taste and quality of Punjab reach households across the globe.”

The Chief Minister reiterated that Punjab’s international outreach, including the launch of the two new SOHNA products at SIAL Paris 2026 and the collective showcase under Punjab Mart, is aimed at connecting the State’s agricultural strengths and value-added food products with international markets, creating sustainable economic opportunities, boosting exports and generating employment.

MARKFED’s participation at the exhibition reflects the growing international potential of Punjab’s cooperative food processing sector. With a turnover of more than ₹21,248 crore, equivalent to approximately USD 2.26 billion, the organisation directly represents and serves the interests of around 2 million farmers in Punjab. Through its manufacturing and processing base in the State, MARKFED undertakes the processing, value addition, branding and global marketing of agricultural and food products under its SOHNA brand.

The product range showcased at SIAL Paris includes ready-to-eat Punjabi dishes such as Sarson Ka Saag, Dal Makhani, Rajmah, Kari Pakora, Amritsari Chana and other traditional preparations. According to MARKFED’s presentation material, its ready-to-eat products are preservative-free, convenient and designed to be heated and consumed, bringing authentic Punjabi cuisine to international consumers. The portfolio also includes SOHNA Kachi Ghani Mustard Oil, traditional pickles, murabbas, Amla Juice, Aloe Vera Juice, Amla Candy, Shakkar and other value-added products.

The two newly launched canned products add to this range by offering international buyers convenient, ready-to-use chickpeas and red kidney beans. By diversifying its product portfolio, MARKFED aims to expand its presence in international food markets, connect with new importers and distributors and establish SOHNA as a recognised brand for authentic Punjabi and Indian food products.

MARKFED is already exporting its products to more than 20 countries, including markets in the Middle East, Canada, Australia and New Zealand. Its participation in SIAL Paris is aimed at widening this international footprint by connecting with buyers, distributors and potential commercial partners. The exhibition also provides an opportunity to explore contract manufacturing and private-label production for overseas companies seeking to source food products from India.

MARKFED has an installed annual processing capacity of 2,700 metric tonnes for canned Sarson Ka Saag and other ready-to-eat products, along with 3,000 metric tonnes for honey. The organisation intends to utilise its available surplus capacity for private-label manufacturing for international buyers, opening another avenue for export growth and deeper integration with global supply chains.

Building on the product showcase, the Punjab delegation also engaged with leading French and international food and beverage companies through business interactions facilitated in coordination with the Embassy of India in France. The discussions focused on identifying new markets for Punjab’s agricultural and processed food products, understanding international sourcing requirements, developing buyer-supplier networks and exploring long-term trade partnerships. Opportunities in food processing technology, cold-chain infrastructure, packaging, logistics and international distribution were also explored to strengthen the competitiveness of Punjab’s exporters.