Tripura is moving beyond fresh pineapple marketing and focusing on processing, branding and value addition to transform its famous Queen Pineapple into a stronger agricultural business opportunity. A Rs 234-crore initiative aims to strengthen marketing networks, processing infrastructure and value-added production for the GI-tagged fruit.
At a glance
- Tripura government is implementing a Rs 234-crore project for pineapple processing and value addition.
- Queen Pineapple received the Geographical Indication (GI) tag in 2014.
- Pineapple cultivation covers around 12,000 hectares across Tripura.
- The state produces nearly 1.78 lakh metric tonnes of pineapple annually.
- The Queen Pineapple Global Festival 2026 is promoting partnerships among farmers, processors and buyers.
Agartala: Tripura is preparing a long-term strategy to expand the economic potential of its famous Queen Pineapple by strengthening processing facilities, improving branding and creating a stronger value-addition ecosystem.
The focus has shifted from selling fresh pineapples to developing a complete agricultural value chain that includes processing, packaging, marketing and export promotion. The initiative is expected to create better income opportunities for farmers while helping Tripura establish its identity as a major horticulture hub in the Northeast.
The development comes amid the ongoing Tripura Queen Pineapple Global Festival 2026, where stakeholders from agriculture, food processing, exports and business sectors are exploring new opportunities linked with the state’s premium fruit.
Tripura Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Minister Ratan Lal Nath said the state government, with financial support from the Centre and the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER), is implementing a Rs 234-crore project aimed at improving the marketing, processing and value addition of Queen Pineapple.
The project focuses on creating a stronger ecosystem around pineapple production so that farmers can benefit from improved market access and better returns. The initiative also aims to encourage entrepreneurs and businesses to invest in pineapple-based industries.
From fresh fruit to processed products
For years, Tripura’s pineapple sector has largely depended on fresh fruit sales. However, limited processing infrastructure and storage facilities have remained challenges for growers.
The new approach aims to change this by promoting value-added products such as processed pineapple items, packaged products and other food-based industries. A stronger processing network can help reduce post-harvest losses and provide farmers with additional revenue opportunities.
Industry experts believe that developing processing units closer to production areas can improve efficiency and create employment opportunities in rural regions.
Queen Pineapple gets global recognition
Tripura’s Queen Pineapple has gained national attention due to its unique taste, aroma and quality. The variety received the Geographical Indication (GI) tag in 2014, giving it a distinct identity in domestic and international markets.
The Tripura government declared pineapple as the official state fruit in 2018, further highlighting its importance in the state’s agricultural economy.
Minister Nath said cultivation of Queen and Kew varieties has strengthened Tripura’s position in the horticulture sector and created new possibilities for exports.
The government’s focus now remains on converting this recognition into commercial opportunities through improved supply chains, branding strategies and market expansion.
Farmers remain at the centre of the growth plan
A large number of Janajati farmers in Tripura cultivate Queen and Kew pineapple varieties. The expansion of processing and value addition facilities is expected to directly benefit these growers by providing better market linkages.
The government believes that stronger connections between farmers, Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs), processors and buyers can improve the overall pineapple economy.
The Buyer-Seller Meet organised during the Queen Pineapple Global Festival 2026 also highlighted the importance of building direct partnerships between producers and businesses.
The event brought together buyers, exporters, entrepreneurs and farmers to discuss opportunities in marketing and trade.
Building an export-oriented pineapple ecosystem
Tripura currently cultivates pineapple across nearly 12,000 hectares of land, producing around 1.78 lakh metric tonnes annually.
The state is looking to expand its presence in national and international markets. For this purpose, stress is on improving quality standards, packaging facilities and export readiness.
The government’s strategy includes strengthening the entire supply chain, from cultivation to consumer markets. Better infrastructure, improved branding and efficient transportation systems are expected to play an important role in achieving this goal.
The Queen Pineapple Global Festival 2026 has provided a platform to showcase these opportunities and attract investment from different sectors.
Future opportunities for Tripura’s horticulture sector
The growth of pineapple-based industries can create wider economic benefits beyond farming. Processing units, logistics networks, packaging industries and food businesses can generate new employment opportunities.
News Analysis: Enewstime Desk’s Perspective
Economists associated with the Enewstime hailed the ongoing Tripura Queen Pineapple Global Festival held in New Delhi. They termed it as an effective step forward in branding the Queen variety of pineapple for global trade. Apart from focusing on fresh fruit supply, the State Government has emphasised developing an ecosystem to boost entrepreneurial ventures.
Rural Development experts shared their views with the Enewstime Desk. They said that by promoting value addition, Tripura aims to ensure that farmers receive greater economic benefits from their produce rather than depending only on raw fruit sales. The state’s pineapple strategy reflects a broader shift towards modernising agriculture through technology, market integration and entrepreneurship.
According to Dr. Jayanta Choudhury, Rural Development and Planning, Nagaland University, Tripura has embarked on an interesting journey. Armed with GI-tagged Queen Pineapple, the State is now expanding its production base and focusing on new processing initiatives. As Queen pineapple has already created a market, jumping to the higher level now needs the effective implementation of plans.
Based on the available information, Enewstime Desk believes that Tripura is moving towards becoming an important player in India’s horticulture and agri-export sector.
