India is set to host two significant delegations from MERCOSUR (Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay and Paraguay) and Brazil in the coming weeks, fostering stronger economic and trade relations. These visits mark a significant step in enhancing cooperation and trade opportunities between these nations.
A top diplomat confirmed to Financial Express Online about the visit of the delegations. A 15-member MERCOSUR delegation from the cooperatives sector will visit India starting October 31st for five days, while the Governor of Mato Grosso, Brazil, will lead a 65-member business delegation to India from November 13th to 15th.
The Minister of Agriculture and Livestock of Brazil, Carlos Fávaro, is arriving in New Delhi accompanied by a high-level delegation, composed of representatives from no less than 30 leading institutions and companies within the Brazilian agricultural sector.
On November 2, on the sidelines of the seminar “Perspectives & the Future of India-Brazil Relations in the Agribusiness Sector”, India and Brazil will sign two MoUs. They include: MoU between the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) and the Brazilian Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Regarding Cooperation in the Area of Food Safety”; and The Solvent Extractors’ Association of India and the Brazilian Association of Vegetable Oil Industries.
MERCOSUR Delegation’s Visit
Sharing details about the agenda of the MERCOSUR Delegation, the diplomat quoted above stated that thevisit holds great promise for enhancing India’s trade relations with South American nations. “The delegation, comprising 15 members, will engage in high-level meetings with prominent Indian organizations, including the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), Amul, and the Indian Farmers Fertiliser Cooperative (IFFCO).”
These meetings aim to explore potential collaborations, promote agricultural exchange, and strengthen cooperation between the cooperatives sector of MERCOSUR and Indian counterparts.
This visit presents a unique opportunity for India to leverage the extensive experience of MERCOSUR in the cooperatives sector and bolster its own agricultural and trade practices. By sharing best practices and exploring synergies, both regions can benefit from increased agricultural productivity and trade growth.
Governor of Mato Grosso’s Business Delegation
The Governor of Mato Grosso, Brazil, is set to visit India from November 13th to 15th, leading a substantial business delegation of 65 members. During this visit, the delegation will engage in discussions with key Indian entities such as the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), Invest India, and the Engineering Export Promotion Council (EEPC). Additionally, there is a likelihood of meetings with the Ministry of Shipping (MOS). The delegation’s participation in the India International Trade Fair (IITF) 2023 further underscores the importance of this visit.
Mato Grosso is known for its robust agricultural production, and this visit provides an excellent opportunity for both regions to explore agricultural trade prospects, exchange technological know-how, and strengthen cooperation in agribusiness. With Governor of Mato Grosso’s visit and the participation in IITF, India and Brazil are poised to unlock new avenues for economic cooperation and business partnerships.
Agriculture Minister of Brazil’s Visit
In another significant development, the Agriculture Minister of Brazil is scheduled to visit India soon. This visit is primarily to participate in World Food India and engage in diverse business meetings. The agenda includes meetings with the Indian Agriculture Minister, Animal Husbandry and Fisheries Minister, and Food Processing Minister.
This visit underscores the shared commitment of India and Brazil to promote sustainable agriculture, food security, and the development of the agri-food sector. By engaging in high-level discussions with Indian counterparts, Brazil aims to foster trade relations, exchange agricultural innovations, and enhance cooperation in addressing global food challenges.
As India continues to position itself as a key player in the global economy, such engagements with strategic partners become pivotal in driving economic growth and sustainable development. “The outcomes of these visits are eagerly anticipated, as they are expected to pave the way for a more robust and fruitful relationship between India, MERCOSUR, and Brazil in the fields of agriculture and trade,” opined a senior official.