Meghalaya showcased its growing organic farming ecosystem to global buyers and certification agencies at BIOFACH 2026 in Nuremberg, marking the state’s first-ever participation in the world’s largest organic trade fair.
The event, held in Nuremberg, Germany, saw participation from over 90 countries. It gave Meghalaya an opportunity to present itself as an emerging organic sourcing destination from the Northeast. Notably, India was honoured as the ‘Country of the Year’ at the fair.
The state delegation was led by Vijay Kumar D, Commissioner and Secretary to the Government of Meghalaya and Chairman of the Meghalaya Natural and Organic Farming Society for Livelihood and Innovation in Agriculture (MEGNOLIA). Speaking at the event, he shared the state’s roadmap for organic development, saying Meghalaya’s approach is built on institutional strength, ecological sustainability and better market linkages.
Officials said the state focused on presenting a well-structured system based on farmer collectives, proper certification processes and export-oriented value chains. Several meetings were held with international buyers, certification agencies and organic traders to explore possible partnerships and long-term collaborations.
Farmer representatives were also included in the official delegation, which the government described as an effort to directly connect producers with global markets.
Trinity Saioo, a turmeric farmer from Jaintia Hills known for Lakadong turmeric, described the experience as unforgettable. “Coming to Germany and attending BIOFACH was like a dream come true for me. I never imagined that organic turmeric grown in our fields would be seen and appreciated globally,” she said. She added that the visit helped her understand the importance of quality control, certification and value addition in accessing better markets.
Ringnang Kongkal Sangma, a black pepper farmer from Garo Hills, said the exposure gave her a clearer idea of international expectations for organic spices, especially in terms of traceability and collective marketing.
The participation comes as the state rolls out its State Organic Mission 2028, which aims to bring one lakh hectares under certified organic cultivation. The mission focuses on cluster-based certification through Internal Control Systems, strengthening Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs), improving aggregation facilities and expanding market access.
Through MEGNOLIA, Meghalaya is also promoting the ‘Meghalaya Collectives Organic’ brand to help farmers secure better prices and expand into premium domestic and international markets.
Organic products such as turmeric, pineapple, ginger, Khasi mandarin and black pepper from the state have already found buyers outside the region. At BIOFACH, certified organic ginger, turmeric and sticky rice were displayed at a dedicated pavilion and attracted interest from buyers and certification agencies.
Officials said this participation is part of a larger effort to integrate Meghalaya’s organic farmers into global value chains while meeting international standards of quality, traceability and sustainability.