Uttar Pradesh Agriculture Export Policy – 2019

How does the Uttar Pradesh Agriculture Export Policy – 2019 strengthen the agricultural export activities in the State?

Approach: Begin with a description of the objectives of the policy. In the body, explain through key features, how the policy strengthens the export activities in the State. Conclude with an assessment of the performance of the policy.

The Uttar Pradesh Agriculture Export Policy, introduced in 2019 and amended in 2021, establishes an ambitious framework to double agricultural exports to US$2524 million by 2024. Prioritizing sustainable produce, value-added processing, and indigenous organic cultivation, this comprehensive policy implements several strategic interventions that collectively strengthen the state’s position in global agricultural markets:

1. Multi-tiered governance structure: The three-level committee system operates at State, Division, and District levels. This robust framework ensures focused monitoring and swift resolution of challenges, effectively bridging policy decisions with ground-level execution.
2. Cluster-based development approach: The policy provides graduated financial support from 10-40 lakhs based on land size. This approach dedicates resources to high-potential areas, enabling economies of scale and standardized quality production that meets international market
3. Transportation subsidies: Targeted subsidies of 25% for air/waterways and 10% for rail/road directly address geographical disadvantages of the state (landlocked nature). These incentives make UP’s agricultural products more price-competitive in global markets.
4. Export facilitation centers: These one-stop service points reduce procedural complexities and information gaps. They provide exporters with streamlined access to certification, documentation and market intelligence that accelerates export processes.
5. Market fee exemptions: The policy waives mandi fees and user charges for export-oriented produce. This reduction in transaction costs enables more competitive pricing and creates direct procurement channels that preserve product quality.
6. Processing unit incentives: New processing facilities near agricultural clusters receive 10% of their export turnover (up to Rs. 25 lakhs) for five years. This encourages value-addition infrastructure that transforms raw commodities into higher-priced processed exports.
7. Educational support programs: Export education subsidies cover 50% of fees for specialized agricultural export courses. These programs develop a skilled workforce knowledgeable in international trade requirements, certification standards, and market-specific practices.
8. Global market linkages: The policy supports international buyer-seller meets and exhibition participation. These platforms create direct connections with overseas buyers and help producers understand global market preferences and requirements.

The policy shows promising progress, with a 5.5% growth in farm export value to Rs. 19,000 crore in 2022-23. This upward trajectory supports the broader goal of doubling farmer incomes by increasing global market access and value realization.