In a landmark achievement for Assam’s dairy sector, the state has exported its first-ever international consignment of Purabi Ice Cream to Bhutan, marking a new chapter for dairy exports from the North Eastern Region of India. The inaugural shipment of 5,627 litres was flagged off by Assam Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma in Guwahati on 28 July 2026.
The export consignment has been sent by North East Dairy and Foods Limited (NEDFL) and will supply Purabi Ice Cream to major cities across Bhutan, including Thimphu, Paro, Phuentsholing, and Wangdue. The move is expected to strengthen the presence of Assam-made dairy products in neighboring international markets.
Purabi Ice Cream Made from Assam Farmers’ Milk
Purabi Ice Cream is manufactured by the West Assam Milk Producers’ Cooperative Union Limited (WAMUL) and marketed by NEDFL. The products are made using fresh milk collected through Purabi Dairy’s extensive cooperative network of dairy farmers spread across Assam.
The first export shipment includes a wide variety of products such as:
- Ice cream cups
- Family packs
- Cones
- Gallon packs
These products are intended to serve both retail customers and institutional buyers in Bhutan.
APEDA Supports International Export
The export was facilitated by the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry. APEDA played a key role by assisting with export documentation, regulatory compliance, market access, and coordination between stakeholders to ensure a smooth shipment.
The authority has been actively promoting agricultural and processed food exports from India’s North Eastern Region by helping businesses meet international quality standards and access overseas markets.
Bhutan Opens New Opportunities for Assam Dairy Products
With Bhutan located close to Assam, the neighboring country offers an ideal market for expanding dairy exports. The successful shipment is expected to pave the way for more value-added dairy products from Assam to reach international consumers.
NEDFL has also announced plans to expand its export portfolio by introducing additional Purabi Dairy products with a longer shelf life while increasing export volumes based on market demand.
Benefits for Dairy Farmers
The export initiative is expected to generate long-term benefits for thousands of dairy farmers associated with Assam’s cooperative milk network. Increased exports can improve market access, boost demand for locally produced milk, and create higher income opportunities for rural dairy producers.
Strengthening India’s Agri-Food Exports
The successful export of Purabi Ice Cream reflects India’s growing focus on promoting value-added agricultural products in international markets. APEDA continues to collaborate with state governments, cooperatives, Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs), exporters, and other stakeholders to improve the global competitiveness of Indian agricultural and processed food products.
As Assam’s dairy products begin reaching international shelves, the milestone highlights the growing potential of the North Eastern Region as an emerging hub for high-quality food exports and reinforces India’s commitment to expanding agri-export opportunities worldwide.
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