Enhancing the Bakery and Confectionery Sector
On December 18, 2024, Dr. Subrata Gupta, Secretary of the Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MoFPI), led a significant roundtable discussion in New Delhi. The meeting brought together key business leaders from the bakery and confectionery sectors. The primary aim was to address the challenges facing the industry and to explore actionable solutions that could enhance growth and global competitiveness. This gathering marked an important step in fostering collaboration between the government and industry stakeholders.
Addressing Industry Challenges
The roundtable discussion served as a vital platform for industry representatives to voice their concerns. Participants highlighted several challenges, including the need for quality raw materials and efficient supply chains. The current regulatory framework was also a significant topic of discussion. Many attendees emphasized the importance of reforms that would support both large and small-scale manufacturers.
One of the key points raised was the potential for increased investments across the value chain. Industry leaders expressed a strong desire to enable small-scale and specialty manufacturers to scale their operations. This would help them meet the evolving demands of consumers. Additionally, integrating informal sector units into the formal ecosystem was identified as a crucial step. This integration could improve efficiency, scalability, and quality standards across the industry.
Enhancing the Business Environment
A major theme of the discussion was the need to enhance the ease of doing business in the bakery and confectionery sectors. Participants suggested simplifying regulatory frameworks to create a more enabling business environment. This would not only benefit existing businesses but also attract new investments.
Sustainability and innovation were also focal points of the conversation. Attendees recommended adopting new technologies and expanding domestic production of critical inputs, such as cocoa. By doing so, the industry could unlock untapped opportunities and reduce dependency on imports. The emphasis on sustainability aligns with global trends, where consumers increasingly prefer environmentally friendly products.
Skill Development and Consumer Awareness
Skill development emerged as another critical area of focus during the discussions. Participants stressed the importance of capacity-building programs, especially for small and medium enterprises. These programs could foster innovation and drive growth within the sector.
Moreover, there was a consensus on the need for consumer awareness initiatives. Educating consumers about the benefits of processed foods could encourage wider acceptance in the domestic market. By promoting the advantages of these products, the industry could potentially increase its market share and improve overall consumer perception.
Commitment to Collaboration
Dr. Gupta assured participants of the Ministry’s commitment to addressing their concerns. He emphasized the importance of partnerships and collaboration to drive progress in the industry. Strengthening the value chain and creating an enabling ecosystem were highlighted as essential steps.
Industry members were encouraged to connect with Invest India and submit detailed representations. This would help in developing actionable strategies to tackle the challenges effectively. The roundtable discussion concluded on a positive note, with a shared commitment to work together for the betterment of the bakery and confectionery sectors in India.
Observer Voice is the one stop site for National, International news, Editor’s Choice, Art/culture contents, Quotes and much more. We also cover historical contents. Historical contents includes World History, Indian History, and what happened today. The website also covers Entertainment across the India and World.