“Surat: Awareness essential for global food exports, special session by Chamber of Commerce”
Entrepreneurs motivated to enter global markets with information on international standards and certifications
Surat. The Global Connect platform of the Southern Gujarat Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SGCCI) organized an awareness session on “Export Readiness and Global Food Compliance” on Monday, July 7, 2025, at Samahiti in Sarasana. The objective of this event was to educate entrepreneurs in the food processing industry about international export standards, certifications, and necessary procedures.
As the keynote speaker, the Director of Food Safety at The Acheson Group explained that certifications such as HACCP, ISO 22000, and FSSAI are mandatory for exporting food to developed markets like the USA and the European Union. She emphasized that the entire supply chain of food products—from raw material procurement to packaging and shipment—must adhere to quality and safety standards to sustain in international markets.
The Chamber’s President noted that South Gujarat is experiencing rapid growth in agriculture and food processing industries. With increasing exports of fruits and other processed products, entrepreneurs must align themselves with global standards. Keeping this in mind, the Chamber regularly organizes such awareness sessions.
The Vice President of the Chamber highlighted that entrepreneurs in South Gujarat possess strengths such as production capacity, raw material availability, and business awareness. By integrating these with international standards and certifications, they can become globally competitive.
The Honorary Treasurer, while presenting the event’s framework, stated that legal and quality compliance in international trade is no longer optional but a necessity. He urged entrepreneurs to prepare adequately to present their products on a global scale.
The session was conducted by the CEO of SGCCI Global Connect, who concluded by thanking all participants. The keynote speaker also addressed export-related queries from attending entrepreneurs during the event.
She mentioned that the U.S. processed food market was valued at $98.4 billion in 2024, while the global market exceeded $377 billion with an annual growth rate of 5%. This clearly indicates opportunities for countries like India.
This event was not only informative but also proved to be a significant initiative in preparing Surat’s entrepreneurs to compete globally.
Southern Gujarat Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SGCCI)
The Southern Gujarat Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SGCCI) is a prominent trade association based in Surat, Gujarat, established to promote business and industrial growth in the region. Founded in 1949, SGCCI supports local enterprises through advocacy, networking, and policy recommendations, contributing to Surat’s development as a major economic hub, particularly in textiles and diamonds. It plays a key role in fostering trade relations and organizing industry-related events.
Samahiti
“Samahiti” does not refer to a widely recognized place or cultural site, and there is limited historical information available. It may be a misspelling or a lesser-known location. If you meant a specific site, such as “Samakhiti” in Georgia or another similarly named place, please provide more details for an accurate summary.
Sarasana
“Sarasana” is a traditional Balinese open pavilion or hall, often found in temples and communal spaces, used for religious ceremonies, meetings, and cultural performances. Its design reflects Balinese Hindu architecture, with intricately carved wooden pillars and an alang-alang (thatched) roof. Historically, these structures have served as gathering places for spiritual and social events, embodying the island’s rich cultural heritage.
The Acheson Group
The Acheson Group is a consulting firm specializing in food safety, regulatory compliance, and public health, founded by Dr. David Acheson, a former FDA official. It provides expertise to food companies, government agencies, and other organizations to improve food safety systems and meet regulatory standards. The group leverages decades of experience in food safety policy and outbreak response to help clients mitigate risks and enhance compliance.
HACCP
HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points) is not a place or cultural site but a systematic, science-based food safety management system. Developed in the 1960s by NASA and the Pillsbury Company to ensure safe food for astronauts, it identifies and controls potential hazards in food production. Today, HACCP is widely used in the food industry globally to prevent contamination and ensure consumer safety.
ISO 22000
ISO 22000 is an international standard for food safety management systems, developed by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). Established in 2005, it provides a framework to ensure safe food supply chains by addressing hazards and implementing preventive controls. It is applicable to all organizations in the food industry, from producers to retailers, promoting global food safety and compliance.
FSSAI
The **Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI)** is a regulatory body established in 2008 under the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare to ensure safe and wholesome food for consumers. It was created under the **Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006**, consolidating multiple food laws and standards in India. FSSAI sets scientific standards, regulates food manufacturing, storage, and sale, and promotes public awareness about food safety and nutrition.
USA
The **United States of America (USA)** is a diverse and vast country in North America, founded in 1776 after declaring independence from Britain. Known for its cultural influence, democratic government, and economic power, it has a rich history shaped by immigration, industrialization, and key events like the Civil War and Civil Rights Movement. Major landmarks include the Statue of Liberty, the Grand Canyon, and the White House, reflecting its natural beauty, historical significance, and global leadership.
European Union
The European Union (EU) is a political and economic union of 27 European countries, established to promote peace, stability, and prosperity after World War II. It traces its origins to the 1951 European Coal and Steel Community and was formally created by the 1993 Maastricht Treaty. Today, the EU operates a single market, a common currency (the euro, used by 20 members), and policies on trade, climate, and human rights.
South Gujarat
South Gujarat, located in the western Indian state of Gujarat, is a culturally rich and historically significant region known for its lush landscapes, vibrant tribal communities, and ancient trade heritage. It was once part of the influential ports of the Indus Valley and later the Maratha Empire, playing a key role in maritime trade. Today, it is famous for its diverse traditions, sugarcane farms, and landmarks like the Saputara hill station and the UNESCO-listed Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park.
SGCCI Global Connect
SGCCI Global Connect is an initiative by the Southern Gujarat Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SGCCI) to foster international business collaboration and economic growth. Established to connect businesses, entrepreneurs, and investors worldwide, it promotes trade, innovation, and partnerships through networking events, trade delegations, and knowledge-sharing platforms. The initiative reflects SGCCI’s long-standing commitment to strengthening Gujarat’s commercial ties with global markets since its founding in 1945.
U.S. processed food market
The U.S. processed food market emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries with advancements in canning, refrigeration, and mass production, making packaged foods widely accessible. Today, it is a dominant sector of the American food industry, driven by convenience, affordability, and long shelf life, though it faces criticism over health and nutritional concerns. Major companies like Kraft Heinz, Nestlé, and General Mills lead the market, offering everything from frozen meals to snacks and beverages.
India
India is a diverse and culturally rich country in South Asia, known for its ancient civilizations, vibrant traditions, and historical landmarks like the Taj Mahal and Varanasi. With a history spanning over 5,000 years, it was home to the Indus Valley Civilization, major empires like the Maurya and Mughal dynasties, and played a key role in global trade and spirituality. Today, India is the world’s largest democracy, blending deep-rooted heritage with rapid modernization.
