The Department of Commerce and Industries of Meghalaya, in collaboration with the Federation of Indian Export Organisations (FIEO), hosted a Reverse Buyer–Seller Meet (RBSM) on Tuesday at the State Convention Centre in Shillong. This event was part of the Raising and Accelerating MSME Performance (RAMP) Scheme by the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MoMSME) of India, aimed at enhancing export prospects and global market access for MSMEs in Meghalaya.
The event was inaugurated by Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma, who described it as a proud moment not just for Meghalaya but for the entire North Eastern region. He shared insights on how opportunities can emerge from perceived limitations, stressing that initiatives like the RBSM should yield tangible results and that persistent effort is essential for progress. Citing the Meghalaya Livelihoods and Access to Markets Programme, which turned from facing closure to gaining international recognition, he underscored that transformation is a gradual process requiring commitment and focus.
On the subject of global trade, the Chief Minister indicated that uncertainty might present opportunities in various sectors, such as textiles and pharmaceuticals. He highlighted Meghalaya’s reforms aimed at creating a supportive ecosystem, including the elimination of over 400 regulations, with a notable reduction of 70 regulations in the labor sector, and the establishment of a unified investor portal for streamlined clearances.
He also provided examples of successful value addition, mentioning pineapple farmers exporting their produce after meeting international safety standards and women self-help groups involved in turmeric processing. The emphasis was placed on fostering partnerships that facilitate meaningful collaborations between buyers and local farmers and entrepreneurs.