This week, a business delegation of Indian entrepreneurs from the food and beverage sector is visiting Estonia. They aim to explore opportunities in the Estonian food industry and develop business partnerships.
The visit, organised by Enterprise Estonia (EIS), the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the Estonian Food Industry Association, takes place from 5 to 8 May and follows the Estonian food and beverage companies’ business mission to India last December. Several Indian companies now visiting Estonia have already begun cooperation talks with local producers.
“Estonia wants to become a European hub and gateway for Indian food enthusiasts. A free trade agreement is about to be signed, so we see a favourable tailwind for active cooperation with the Indian food sector.”
Katre Kõvask, CEO of YOOK Production
The delegation includes representatives from leading Indian import and distribution companies operating primarily in the HORECA sector (hotels, restaurants, catering) and e-commerce. The visit focuses on familiarising themselves with Estonia’s high-quality products and innovative solutions, and establishing business contacts.
India offers significant opportunities for Estonian food companies
According to the Minister of Regional Affairs and Agriculture, Hendrik Johannes Terras, the visit by the Indian business delegation aligns with Estonia’s aim to diversify its export markets in the food sector. “India is a rapidly developing, large-scale market that offers significant opportunities for Estonia’s high-quality and innovative food products. This visit helps to establish key business connections and to showcase our industry’s capabilities. It is a concrete step towards increasing Estonian food exports to India,” said the Minister. Terras hopes that the quality and innovation offered by Estonian companies will be well received in the Indian market.
The visit begins with an Estonia–India cooperation seminar, followed by a meeting with Minister Terras and a visit to snack producer Balsnack. In the following days, the delegation will tour various parts of Estonia, visiting companies such as Saku and A. Le Coq breweries, gin producer Tohi Gin, the Centre of Food and Fermentation Technologies (TFTAK), plant-based producers Bon Vegan and Thormi, mushroom cultivation company Shroomwell, bottled water brand Haage, and plant-based beverage producer YOOK Production. The visit concludes with one-on-one business meetings between Estonian and Indian companies.
The delegation members with the Minister of Regional Affairs and Agriculture, Hendrik Johannes Terras. Photo: Ministry of Regional Affairs and Agriculture
Estonia seeks to expand export opportunities in India
Katre Kõvask, CEO of YOOK Production and Head of the Food Industry Association’s export working group, stated: “Estonian food companies, with their high quality, innovation, and adaptability, are well prepared to enter the Indian market. We are grateful to EIS and the entire diplomatic corps for the groundwork that made this visit possible. Estonia wants to become a European hub and gateway for Indian food enthusiasts. A free trade agreement is about to be signed, so we see a favourable tailwind for active cooperation with the Indian food sector.”
“The significant growth of India’s food and beverage sector in 2024, with even stronger momentum expected in 2025, creates an ideal moment for Estonian companies to explore cooperation opportunities in India.”
Grace Nathaniel, EIS’s project manager for the Indian market
The Indian delegation’s visit is part of Estonia’s broader strategy to diversify export markets and strengthen its position in large and fast-growing economies. “Some may ask why small Estonian food and beverage producers should consider entering a vast market like India. The answer lies in the need for industry stability,” explained Marek Roostar, Head of the Asia Region at EIS’s Export Division.
“By diversifying export markets, these producers can reduce risks associated with fluctuating demand, especially as key markets in Europe are experiencing a downturn. In India’s hotel and restaurant sector, where shelf space is limited, uniqueness and high quality are highly valued. Estonian products are in demand in this segment, as evidenced by the Indian delegation’s visit,” he added.
India´s food and beverage sector is growing significantly
Grace Nathaniel, EIS’s project manager for the Indian target market, added: “The significant growth of India’s food and beverage sector in 2024, with even stronger momentum expected in 2025, creates an ideal moment for Estonian companies to explore cooperation opportunities in India. Estonia’s successful exports in the cheese and alcoholic beverages sectors have laid a strong foundation, and we are confident that more and more Estonian brands will soon find their way to Indian store shelves.”
The Indian business delegation visiting Estonia includes representatives from the following companies: MNRC Brews and Beverages Private Limited, HS Oberoi, Stalwart Marketing, Urban Platter, Jaideep Gupta, and Tavasya Venture Partners Private Limited.
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