India and Canada Will Explore Possibilities in Food Processing Sector

Hon?ble Mr. Gerry Ritz, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Government of Canada had a meeting with Shri Subodh Kant Sahai, Hon?ble Minister of Food Processing Industries recently.

Both the Ministers desired to have joint venture between Canada and India in Food Processing sector. Mr. Sahai conveyed the need of India for technology upgradation in food processing sector. He informed the Canadian Minister about active participation of Canadian companies in India. Canada has a huge agricultural base and currently meets 90% of its trade requirements from USA. Due to the large land area, Canada has developed a successful cold chain and transportation network.

Mr. Gerry Ritz informed that Canada is going to host SIAL Toronto, a large festival of food processing industries, in the month of May, 2011 wherein the best technology and business opportunities will be exhibited. Mr. Sahai informed that India will be willing to participate and hold an Investors? Meet in Toronto during the festival. Both the Ministers further expressed the need to identify sector specific need of Indian food processing companies. These sectors include processing labs, educational institutions, cold chains and technological upgradation.

It has been agreed by both the countries that a separate Joint Working Group should be formed to explore possibilities in food processing sector in India.