Punjab Newsline |Chandigarh

Punjab’s Traditional Flavours Target Global Markets

Punjab’s traditional white chickpeas and rajma are set to gain a wider international presence. Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann launched two new products under MARKFED’s SOHNA brand at SIAL Paris 2026, one of the world’s leading international food and beverage exhibitions. The products include canned white chickpeas in brine and red kidney beans in brine. The initiative aims to take Punjab’s traditional food products to consumers worldwide and strengthen agricultural exports.

MARKFED Stall Inaugurated at India Pavilion

The Chief Minister inaugurated MARKFED’s exhibition stall at the India Pavilion, where Punjab’s agricultural heritage, food-processing capabilities and traditional products were showcased. Mann said the government was working to take Punjab’s high-quality agricultural produce and food products to international markets, increase farmers’ income and establish homegrown brands globally.

Punjab Mart Showcases Cooperative and State Enterprises

Products from MARKFED, Verka and Punjab Agro were displayed collectively under the Punjab Mart umbrella, providing a common platform to showcase the state’s food-processing potential. Mann said value addition, modern packaging, stronger branding and food processing could further strengthen Punjab’s agricultural economy. These initiatives could create new opportunities for farmers, cooperative institutions, entrepreneurs and exporters.

SOHNA Expands Its Range of Punjabi Food Products

MARKFED’s SOHNA brand showcased a range of traditional Punjabi dishes, including Sarson Ka Saag, Dal Makhani, Rajma, Kadhi Pakora and Amritsari Chana. Its product portfolio also includes mustard oil, pickles, murabbas, Amla Juice, Aloe Vera Juice and other value-added products.

The newly launched canned chickpeas and red kidney beans expand this portfolio by offering convenient, ready-to-use products for international consumers. The initiative reflects MARKFED’s efforts to diversify its offerings and strengthen the global presence of authentic Punjabi food.

Export Expansion and International Partnerships in Focus

According to MARKFED, the organisation already exports its products to more than 20 countries. It has a turnover exceeding ₹21,248 crore and represents the interests of approximately two million farmers in Punjab.

During the exhibition, the Punjab delegation also held discussions with international buyers and food companies to explore opportunities for market expansion, distribution partnerships, packaging, private-label manufacturing and long-term trade collaboration. These engagements aim to strengthen Punjab’s position in international food markets and generate fresh opportunities for agricultural exports and employment.