Punjab: As part of the efforts of the Punjab Government to expand Punjab's agricultural sector globally and strengthen its exports, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann inaugurated 'SIAL', one of the world's leading international food exhibitions. Markfed (Punjab State Cooperative Supply and Marketing Federation Limited) has launched two new products under its flagship brand ‘Sohna’ – ‘Canned White Chickpeas’ and ‘Canned Rajma’ at Paris 2026 (Salon International de l'Alimentation).
Markfed exhibition stall inaugurated in India Pavilion, display of agricultural heritage
Leading a high-level delegation to Paris, the Chief Minister visited the India Pavilion and inaugurated the exhibition stall of Markfed, which showcased Punjab's agricultural heritage, food processing capabilities and potential to emerge as a globally recognized supplier of high quality products.
The taste of Punjab will reach all over the world, the main goal is to increase the income of farmers: CM Mann
Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann wrote on X, "This is a matter of great pride for the farmers and cooperative institutions of Punjab. Today the international food exhibition 'S.I.A.L. Inaugurated the stall of Markfed at Paris' and launched two new products under our 'Sohna' brand. Now people sitting all over the world will be able to enjoy the taste of Punjab's ready-to-eat 'Safed Chole' and 'Rajma'. Our objective is to deliver pure and high quality products of Punjab to the international market so that the income of our farmers can increase and Punjabi products can make their mark across the world. Inquilab Zindabad."
Expanding ready-to-eat portfolio, modern packaging and special emphasis on exports
The launch of these two new products marks the expansion of Markfed's ready-to-cook packaged foods portfolio. This creates opportunities to market Punjab's agricultural produce to new markets while meeting the demand for convenience food products internationally. These products further strengthen the existing range of Punjabi 'ready-to-eat' dishes and processed food products under Markfed's Sohna brand. This initiative reflects the special focus of the State Government on moving beyond traditional agricultural production to processing, value addition, modern packaging, branding and export-oriented manufacturing.
'Punjab Mart' on global platform: Joint partnership of Markfed, Verka and Punjab Agro
During his visit, Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann highlighted the role of Markfed, Milkfed (which sells its products under the Verka brand) and Punjab Agro in strengthening the agricultural economy of the state. 'S.I.A.L. These products are being jointly showcased under 'Punjab Mart' at 'Paris 2026', which brings together two leading cooperative institutions of Punjab and an institution of the state government on a common international platform. The initiative reflects the state's efforts to improve market access for agricultural produce, encourage crop diversification, strengthen food processing and ensure better profits for farmers.
Punjab on the way to becoming a global food processing hub, looking for new markets
Addressing the people gathered at the Markfed stall, the Chief Minister said, "Punjab has always been the granary of India and our vision is to make it a globally recognized hub for high quality food products, value-added agriculture and modern manufacturing. Our farmers, entrepreneurs and industries have immense potential to compete in international markets. 'S.I.A.L. Through initiatives like 'PARIS', we are opening new avenues for Punjab's products, creating global trade links and bringing international opportunities closer to our people."
Vision of value addition and strong global supply chain beyond traditional agriculture
The Chief Minister said, "Punjab has always been the granary of India and our vision is to bring the state's agricultural produce and traditional food items to consumers across the world. By encouraging value addition, modern food processing, quality packaging and strong global market linkages, we aim to create huge opportunities for our farmers, cooperatives, entrepreneurs and exporters. 'S.I.A.L. Our participation in 'PARIS' reflects our commitment to showcase the rich agricultural heritage of Punjab, expand the reach of our homegrown brands and ensure that the taste and quality of Punjab reaches homes across the world."
Creation of employment and economic opportunities for youth by connecting to international markets.
The Chief Minister reiterated that Punjab's reach at the international level, including 'S.I.A.L. 'Paris 2026', which includes the launch of two new Sohna products and a joint exhibition under 'Punjab Mart', aims to connect the state's agricultural strengths and value-added food products to international markets, generate sustainable economic opportunities, encourage exports and generate employment opportunities.
Turnover is more than Rs 21 thousand crore, Markfed network is connected to 20 lakh farmers
Markfed's participation in the exhibition reflects the growing international potential of Punjab's cooperative food processing sector. With a turnover of over Rs 21,248 crore (equivalent to approximately US$2.26 billion), the institute directly represents and serves the interests of approximately 20 lakh farmers of Punjab. Through its manufacturing and processing base in the state, Markfed undertakes processing, value addition, branding and global marketing of agricultural and food products under its 'Sohna' brand.
From sarson ka saag to murabba, preservative-free dishes for foreign consumers
'S.I.A.L. The range of products showcased at Paris' includes ready-to-eat Punjabi dishes like Sarson Ka Saag, Dal Makhani, Rajma, Kadhi Pakoda, Amritsari Chole and other traditional dishes. Markfed products are preservative-free, convenient and ready-to-eat-only, bringing the taste of authentic Punjabi food to overseas consumers. The portfolio also includes Sohna Kachchi Ghani Mustard Oil, Traditional Pickles, Murabbas, Amla Juice, Aloe Vera Juice, Amla Candy, Sugar and other value-added products.
Global recognition through product diversity, strategy to connect with new distributors
Two newly launched canned products further add to the range. By diversifying its product portfolio, Markfed aims to expand its presence in the international food market, connect with new importers and distributors and establish 'Sohna' as a recognized brand for authentic Punjabi and Indian food items.
Already exporting to more than 20 countries, new possibilities for private-label production
Markfed is already shipping its products to more than 20 countries including the Middle East, Canada, Australia and New Zealand. 'S.I.A.L. Participation in Paris aims to further expand this international reach by connecting with buyers, distributors and potential business partners. The exhibition also provides an opportunity for foreign companies wishing to source food items from India to explore the possibilities of contract manufacturing and private-label production.
Huge potential of canned products and honey, focus on private manufacturing
Markfed has an annual processing capacity of 2,700 MT for canned mustard greens and other 'ready-to-eat' products and 3,000 MT for honey. The institute intends to utilize its excess capacity for private-label manufacturing for international buyers, thereby increasing exports and opening another avenue for deeper integration with global supply chains.
Bilateral meetings with French and international companies, brainstorming on logistics and export networks
Apart from showcasing the products, the Punjab delegation also interacted with leading food and beverage companies in France and internationally through business meetings in collaboration with the Indian Embassy in France. The discussion focused on identifying new markets for Punjab's agricultural and processed food products, understanding international sourcing requirements, developing buyer-supplier networks and exploring long-term business relationships. The potential in food processing technology, cold-chain infrastructure, packaging, logistics and international distribution was also explored to strengthen the competitiveness of Punjab's exporters.