SHILLONG, FEB 3: Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma on Tuesday underlined Meghalaya’s strategic shift towards fostering genuine, long-term economic collaborations, stating that opportunities often emerge where limitations are first perceived.
“We are here today not to do just business; we are here to build partnerships,” Sangma said while addressing the inauguration of the Reverse Buyer–Seller Meet (RBSM) 2026 at the State Convention Centre, Shillong.
Congratulating the Department of Commerce and Industries and all stakeholders, the Chief Minister described the event as a “proud moment,” noting that it is the first initiative of its kind not only for Meghalaya but for the entire North Eastern region.
Sharing an anecdote to emphasise the importance of perspective, Sangma remarked that opportunity lies in how challenges are viewed. “It is not about what we see, but how we choose to see it,” he said, stressing that initiatives like RBSM must translate into tangible outcomes through sustained effort and consistency.
Referring to the Meghalaya Livelihoods and Access to Markets Programme supported by IFAD, the Chief Minister recalled that the project was once recommended for closure due to poor performance but has since gained global recognition as one of IFAD’s best projects. “Nothing changes overnight,” he said, adding that transformation requires commitment, focus, and a clear vision.
On global trade dynamics, Sangma observed that uncertainty also presents opportunities in sectors such as textiles, garments, handicrafts, leather, footwear, and pharmaceuticals. He highlighted major reforms undertaken by the State, including the removal of over 400 regulations, nearly 70 of them in the labour sector, and the introduction of a unified investor portal to enable seamless clearances.
Citing examples of value addition, he referred to pineapple farmers whose produce is now exported after meeting international safety standards, and women self-help groups engaged in turmeric processing. Emphasising partnership-based growth, he said the objective was to connect buyers with farmers and entrepreneurs in meaningful, long-term collaborations.
Describing farmers, MSMEs, buyers, and stakeholders as “the true protagonists of this programme,” the Chief Minister expressed hope that the two-day event would mark the beginning of sustained partnerships.
On the occasion, Sangma also launched the MeghaRise Logo and Brand and the State-level MSME Portal, aimed at strengthening branding, improving visibility, and facilitating access to digital services for entrepreneurs across Meghalaya.
Addressing the gathering, Deputy Chief Minister in charge of Commerce and Industries Sniawbhalang Dhar described the event as a “historic occasion” and noted that the Reverse Buyer–Seller Meet is fundamentally different from conventional trade fairs, being a buyer-oriented platform focused on structured B2B engagement.
He informed that 28 international buyers from 16 countries—including South Africa, Zimbabwe, Slovakia, Türkiye, Nepal, New Zealand, Russia, Bahrain, Kenya, Australia, Uganda, Gambia, Azerbaijan, Sri Lanka, Canada, and Romania—are participating, covering sectors such as agri and food processing, handlooms and handicrafts, fashion and textiles, bamboo and wood-based products, spices, and herbal and wellness products. Over 100 MSME sellers from across the State are taking part.
Dhar highlighted the Department’s extensive handholding and capacity-building initiatives, including export–import orientation, policy guidance, and coordination with financial institutions to ensure MSMEs are export-ready. He added that GI-tagged and indigenous products reflecting Meghalaya’s cultural heritage have been prominently showcased, providing market access to convert opportunity into sustainable income, exports, and employment.
Chief Secretary Dr Shakil P. Ahammed said the platform enables direct interaction between local entrepreneurs and buyers from 16 countries, noting that Meghalaya operates largely in premium and niche segments with a strong focus on quality, organic practices, and sustainability.
Earlier, Commissioner and Secretary, Commerce and Industries Department, Sanjay Goyal, stated that MSMEs account for nearly 45 per cent of India’s exports and observed that while Meghalaya’s contribution is currently modest, the sector holds strong growth potential. He said the RBSM, organised under the RAMP Scheme, aims to create direct market linkages with participation from around 300 MSME representatives, including nearly 200 active sellers.
Neha Mehra, representing the Federation of Indian Export Organisations (FIEO), highlighted the role of RBSM in integrating MSMEs into global value chains and strengthening export readiness. Referring to NITI Aayog’s Export Preparedness Index, she noted Meghalaya’s improvement to the 27th position and reaffirmed FIEO’s commitment to supporting the State through capacity-building and export awareness programmes.
The two-day event will continue on February 4 with structured B2B meetings between international buyers and MSMEs from Meghalaya. The RBSM 2026 is expected to boost exports, strengthen trade partnerships, and contribute significantly to the State’s economic development.
