🌾 South Asia Food Processing Dialogue Kicks Off in India with Sri Lankan Delegation

The SAPLING high-level policy dialogue has commenced today in Ahmedabad, India, focusing on transforming the regional agriculture sector into a sustainable economic driver through food processing. • Overall Regional Figures: The South Asian agricultural sector exceeds US$ 700 Bn annually. It is a critical source of employment, engaging 43% of the regional workforce, yet it currently generates only 16% of South Asia's total GDP, highlighting a significant value-gap. • Event Focus: Titled 'Unlocking Value: Advancing Food Processing for Employment Generation and Sustainable Growth in South Asia,' the World Bank and Gates Foundation-led platform aims to align policy, private capital, and technology to boost MSMEs and job creation. • Sri Lankan Participation: A 16-member delegation from Sri Lanka is attending, including the Secretary to the Prime Minister and the Trade, Commerce and Food Security Ministry Secretary. Major private sector representatives from Dilmah, John Keells Holdings, and Nestlé are also participating to drive regional supply chain integration. • Key Innovation Areas: Alongside policy discussions, a curated Innovation Fair is showcasing scalable solutions in advanced storage, smart cold chains, digital traceability, and sustainable packaging.