New Delhi, 13 March (H.S.): Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal asserted Friday that quality, sustainability, and artificial intelligence (AI) will drive India's global competitiveness. He highlighted India's emergence as a key player in agri-food exports, bolstered by advanced cold-chain infrastructure and innovative packaging solutions enabling access to premium international markets.

Addressing the second day of the Indian Institute of Packaging's (IIP) 6th International Packaging Industry Summit virtually, Goyal extended greetings to participants and underscored packaging's pivotal role in today's global economy.

Evolving food systems, shifting consumption patterns, and climate concerns are amplifying demand for secure, sustainable nutrition, positioning packaging as a cornerstone of food safety, trade, and consumer trust.Emphasizing global standards amid Free Trade Agreements (FTAs), Goyal stressed that compliant packaging is essential for export robustness and product integrity.

Institutions like IIP provide vital technical guidance, innovation, testing, and training to the sector.Goyal advocated circular economy principles—recyclable materials and waste minimization—tying them to India's 2047 'Viksit Bharat' vision reliant on resilient supply chains and innovation. He announced 'Bharat Packaging Expo 2027', co-hosted by IIP and India Expo Mart Limited, expecting over 1,500 participants including 50 international delegates.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar