Nuts and Dry fruits Council (India)

Bringing Global Blueberries to Indian Palates

USDA DELEGATION VISIT TO KHARI BAOLI

On June 26, 2025, the Nuts and Dry Fruits Council (India) co-hosted a strategic dinner meeting in New Delhi with Mr. Kevin Hamilton, Vice President – Global Marketing & Communications at the U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council (USHBC), joined by leading blueberry importers from across the NDFC(I) network.

The session spotlighted key insights from the USHBC–India Consumer Survey conducted by Eval360, with Mr. Pankaj Jha (Co-Founder, Eval360 Research & Advisory), and explored the growing market relevance of dried and IQF U.S. blueberries—across retail, institutional, and food processing formats. Innovative solutions like MicroDried blueberries were also discussed as part of a forward-looking dialogue on consumer health trends and functional food innovation.

The evening also facilitated a rich exchange of ideas around market trends, consumer behaviour, and global best practices in functional snacking. Co-hosted under the guidance of Col. Nitin Sehgal, VSM (Retd), CEO, NDFC(I), the discussion was further elevated by insights from leading members of the Council’s importer network – Vishakha Jain (VKC Nuts), Rajeev Pabreja (Commodity Trading Corporation), Nitin Goel (M N Foods), Abhinav Gupta (Lakshmi Enterprises), Gautam Dave (Carmel Group International), Puneet Gupta (S P International), and Lakshay Bedi (Ocean Traders).

Objectives and Goals

At NDFC, we believe in the strength of unity, fostering a collective voice that resonates with impact. Here’s why you should join us on this extraordinary journey:

One Body One Voice:

Amplifying your representation to the Honourable Government.

Community Growth and Cooperation:

Promoting collaboration within the nuts and dried fruits trade community to enhance the category size and foster cooperation among members.

International Collaboration:

Partnering with international promotional boards to channelize funds effectively for market expansion.

Digital Platform for Knowledge Exchange:

Creating a digital hub for knowledge dissemination, information exchange, and market intelligence, ensuring our members stay ahead of industry trends.

Research and Development Advocacy:

Promoting research and development in nuts and dried fruits to propagate healthy eating habits and boost consumption.

Annual NDFC Event:

Hosting an annual Buyer Seller Meet and Conference, fostering meaningful connections within the industry.

Cultural & Sports Bonding:

Creating a happy work environment through cultural and sports activities, making our industry a joyful place.

Educational Seminars and Training:

Organizing seminars and training programs with business leaders and coaches for holistic member growth.

Overseas Training Trips:

Facilitating overseas trips to various origins for training and education.

Discounted Event Spaces:

Securing discounted common spaces for members at domestic events and fairs like Aahar, Sial, Annapurna, and more.

Global Network Access:

Becoming members of world organizations like INC, gaining international exposure and opportunities.

Group Deals for International Trade Shows:

Negotiating better deals as a unified group for international trade shows and buyer-hosted programs.

Women Empowerment:

Encouraging and promoting women as entrepreneurs and professionals within the nuts and dried fruits trade.

Legal & Technical Guidance:

Providing discounted legal and technical advisory services, ensuring our members navigate challenges effectively.

Government Representation:

Representing, working, and coordinating with government bodies like Legal Metrology and FSSAI on standards and compliances.

Networking Opportunities:

Facilitating valuable networking opportunities to build relationships with industry peers and potential clients.

Collective Bargaining Power:

Leveraging the power of collective bargaining to secure exclusive pricing on everyday products and services, saving on business expenses.

Join NDFC and be part of a thriving community that works together, grows together, and succeeds together.