Indian Economy News

Assam Exports First International Consignment of Purabi Ice Cream to Bhutan

Assam marked a major milestone in its dairy sector with the first international export of 5,627 litres of Purabi Ice Cream to Bhutan, creating new opportunities for value-added dairy exports from the North Eastern Region. The consignment was flagged off by Chief Minister of Assam Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma in Guwahati on July 28, 2026. Exported by North East Dairy and Foods Limited (NEDFL), the shipment will cater to key markets in Bhutan, including Thimphu, Paro, Phuentsholing and Wangdue. Manufactured by the West Assam Milk Producers' Cooperative Union Limited (WAMUL) and marketed by NEDFL, Purabi Ice Cream is produced using milk sourced through Purabi Dairy's cooperative network of dairy farmers across Assam. The inaugural shipment includes cups, family packs, cones and gallon packs, catering to both retail and institutional consumers, highlighting the growing global potential of value-added dairy products from the region.

The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) facilitated the export by supporting documentation, regulatory compliance, market access and stakeholder coordination, ensuring the seamless movement of the consignment to Bhutan. The neighbouring country's proximity offers a strategic advantage for expanding dairy exports and strengthening the international presence of Made-in-Assam dairy products. Going forward, NEDFL plans to diversify its export portfolio by introducing additional Purabi Dairy products with longer shelf life while progressively increasing export volumes in line with market demand. The initiative is expected to create sustainable export opportunities, strengthen the dairy value chain and enhance income prospects for thousands of dairy farmers associated with Assam's cooperative milk network. It also reinforces APEDA's continued efforts to boost exports of agricultural and processed food products and improve the global competitiveness of India's agri-food sector.

Disclaimer: This information has been collected through secondary research and IBEF is not responsible for any errors in the same.