FDI in food processing sector up 24 per cent at USD 905 million in FY'18

New Delhi: The foreign direct investment (FDI) in the food processing sector rose 24 per cent in 2017-18 to USD 904.9 million, according to an official data.

FDI inflow into the sector stood at USD 727.22 million during 2016-17 financial year. The sector attracted FDI worth USD 505.88 million and USD 515.86 million in 2015-16 and 2014-15 respectively, the data showed.

The government had in July last approved American e-commerce major Amazon's proposed USD 500 million investment in retailing of food products in India.

At present, 100 per cent FDI in food processing sector is allowed through automatic route. In 2016, the Centre allowed 100 per cent FDI through approval route for retail trading, including through e-commerce, in respect of food products manufactured and produced in India.

Food Processing Minister Harsimrat Kaur Badal had in February this year said FDI in the sector could touch USD 1 billion in 2017-18.

The sector would attract an investment of USD 14 billion over the next 2-3 years as committed by the domestic and foreign investors during the world food summit, she had said.

The World Food India 2017, organised by the ministry, attracted participation from 61 countries, 60 Global CEOs and more than 200 global companies.