He said Maharashtra produces millions of tonnes of milk but there is inadequate processing in the dairy sector. 

Maharashtra has diverse climatic conditions favourable for producing a large variety of crops.

“Farmers in Maharashtra are growing high-quality crops supported by substantial research and development. We look for Thailand’s partnership in secondary treatment of these foods, which include preservation, processing, packaging and export,” he said.

Desai said he also expects Thailand’s support for value addition in the textile sector. Maharashtra has set up a dedicated textile park and nine more are in the process of being developed. 

“My dream is to see a majority of garments in the world market to be labelled as ‘Made in India’ products.”

He said Maharashtra accounts for 15 per cent of India’s GDP, more than 40 per cent of exports and attracted 50 per cent of India’s total foreign direct investment last year. This proves Maharashtra is the most investment-friendly state in India, he said.

Speaking about government support to SMEs, the minister added: “Maharashtra has a special policy for SMEs and the government supports SMEs in land allotment, licensing, reservation and procurement so that they do not have to compete with large enterprises.”

During the event, Dr Wimonkarn Kosumas, deputy director general of Thai SME promotion, told the event: “There is tremendous potential to enhance the partnership between Thailand and Maharashtra. The OSMEP [Office of Small and Medium Enterprises Promotion] has set up a dedicated desk to promote SME collaboration with Italy and Japan. 

“We can set up similar dedicated desk for Maharashtra as well.”

Kosumas invited SMEs from Maharashtra to trade events in Thailand such as Propak Asia on June 12-15, Food Pack Asia 2019.

Source: http://www.nationmultimedia.com/detail/Economy/30351392