Key Points

Fauzan Alavi of Allanasons believes India has tremendous potential to become the world's food basket. He points to India's extensive agricultural exports reaching 70 countries as evidence of this capability. The growing trade relationship with UAE through CEPA is already showing impressive results with 34% growth. Both nations are optimistic about resolving remaining tariff issues to further boost bilateral trade.

Key Points: Allanasons Fauzan Alavi Says India Can Be World Food Basket

  • India exports agricultural goods to nearly 70 countries worldwide
  • Africa represents massive untapped market potential for Indian exports
  • India-UAE CEPA drives 34% trade growth in first half 2025
  • Tariff issues expected to resolve as bilateral requirements align
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India can be food basket of world, says Allanasons' Fauzan Alavi

Allanasons' Fauzan Alavi declares India can become global food basket, citing Agri exports to 70 countries and potential to serve Africa's growing market.

"Agri-space is a huge space. And from India, we can be the food basket of the world - Fauzan Alavi"

Abu Dhabi, September 20

Allanasons' Fauzan Alavi highlighted India's growing influence in the global export of agricultural goods and suggested that New Delhi can be a food basket for the world.

Speaking with ANI, Fauzan Alavi said, "We are India's oldest and probably the biggest Agri export house and from India we export to almost 70 countries... This is, I think, very easily achievable for the simple fact that India has a lot to offer as far as Agri space is concerned. Then secondly, from here, catering to Africa, which is going to be a market that we really cannot imagine if we start catering to it."

"Agri-space is a huge space. And from India, we can be the food basket of the world... Tariff issues, I believe, will be resolved over time because it is a requirement of both the nations and it's going to go a little easier, I think in the times to come," he added.

Fauzan Alavi's remark came as Union Minister of Commerce Piyush Goyal and Sheikh Hamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Managing Director of the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority ("ADIA"), co-chaired the latest meeting of the India-UAE High Level Joint Task Force on Investments in Abu Dhabi on Thursday.

This latest meeting considered a range of trade and investment topics, including ongoing initiatives to enhance bilateral investment flows and new areas of joint cooperation.

The Co-Chairs recognised the positive momentum of bilateral trade which continues to build following the implementation of the India-UAE Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) in May 2022.

In the first half of 2025, bilateral non-oil trade reached nearly USD 38 billion, representing a 34% increase compared to the first half of 2024 and a significant step towards the UAE's 2030 trade targets.

Investment Banker Praveen Kumar Jain exuded confidence that both nations will benefit from the CEPA.

"The impact of CEPA and I2U2 will be very nice. The UAE and Indian governments are very positive about it. We will definitely achieve the objectives of this treaty put forward by Piyush Goyal," he said.

The India-UAE CEPA serves as a cornerstone of the UAE and India's economic alliance and a model for constructive cooperation in a complex and rapidly evolving global trading landscape.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
Great to see India-UAE relations strengthening through CEPA. This partnership can really boost our agricultural exports and create more opportunities for our farmers. Jai Kisan! 👨‍🌾
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Sarah B
While the ambition is commendable, we must ensure that food security for our own population remains the top priority. Export growth shouldn't come at the cost of domestic availability and affordability.
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Vikram M
Africa is indeed a huge potential market! Indian agricultural expertise combined with UAE's investment capabilities can create a win-win situation for all parties involved. Smart thinking!
A
Ananya R
34% increase in non-oil trade is impressive! Shows how strategic partnerships can boost our economy. Hope our farmers get fair prices and benefits from these export opportunities 🌾
M
Michael C
The food basket vision is achievable but requires massive investment in cold chains, storage facilities, and transportation infrastructure. Hope the government focuses on these aspects too.

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