The much-awaited second edition of the Indian Beverage Association’s (IBA) National Beverage Conclave witnessed the Indian Beverage Industry, Regulator, and Government agreeing to work in close coordination to develop products, regulations, and policies to achieve the target of a Viksit Bharat by 2047. The Association reiterated its commitment to “Making India a Global Beverage Processing Hub.
In day-long brainstorming sessions at ITC Maurya Hotel in New Delhi today, the major stakeholders and startup firms in the sector highlighted the vexed issues that challenge the growth of the industry and Brand India.
The three sessions–Non-Alcoholic Beverage Sector Overview and Contribution to the National Economy, Evolving Regulatory and Fiscal Policy Framework, Innovation and Startups in the Non-Alcoholic Beverage Industry, followed by a fire chat session on Global Best Practices and Indian Scenario helped the participants to discuss the ecosystem of Beverage sector in India. It also sets the tone for further action from all concerned to help Indian beverages stand out in the global market.
Attended by the senior government, regulatory officials and industry executives, the Conclave. Taxation and regulatory impediments inhibiting faster and more robust growth and innovations in the industry were put forward in the introductory address. Chief Guest, Dr. Subrata Gupta, Secretary, Ministry of Food Processing Industries, GOI/Government of India, Sh. Minhaj Alam (IAS), Additional Secretary & CVO, Ministry of Food Processing Industries; Sh. P C Kishan (IAS), Joint Secretary-Marketing, Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare and Smt. Seema Arora (IRS), Principal Director General, Directorate General GST – Ministry of Finance. Industry stalwarts, namely Sh. Angelo George, CEO, Bisleri International Pvt. Ltd.; Sh. Saurabh Munjal, CEO & Co-Founder, Archian Foods Pvt. Ltd. (Lahori Zeera); Sh. Vishal Shah, Founder & MD, Storia Foods and Beverages.
During this pivotal industry gathering, IBA reaffirmed its commitment to fostering growth, innovation, and sustainability in the non-alcoholic beverage industry. Key discussions revolved around empowering startups and established companies, strengthening the “Made in India” brand for global markets, and addressing the evolving expectations of Gen Z consumers.
The event shed light on various government schemes benefiting the beverage industry, including infrastructural support for MSME and cooperation on research and development between private firms and the government.
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During the event, industry leaders called for a rationalization of taxes, consistency in regulatory frameworks, and enhanced cooperation among stakeholders. An inter-ministerial approach involving FSSAI, the Ministry of Agriculture, the Ministry of Food Processing Industries, and the Ministry of Finance was highlighted as essential for ensuring cohesive and progressive industry policies.
Representatives from across the industry reacted positively to FSSAI’s proactive engagement and constructive feedback, particularly regarding a point made for data submission alongside industry proposals. The sessions also focused on creating the right perception among consumers by building trust through consistent quality, transparency, and innovative branding. This was identified as a key to sustaining the industry’s growth and appeal. Speaking at the Conclave, the Chief Guest, Dr. Subrata Gupta, Secretary Ministry of Food Processing…
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