FIFI–EICA Partnership to Advance Culinary Innovation and Food Trade in Eastern India

The Forum of Indian Food Importers (FIFI) and the Eastern India Culinary Association (EICA) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to work together on culinary activities, industry outreach and the promotion of global food and beverage products, with a focus on eastern and north-eastern India.

Partnership Highlights
- MoU Signed Between:
- Forum of Indian Food Importers (FIFI)
- Eastern India Culinary Association (EICA)
- Signatories:
- FIFI: Mr. Rakesh Banga & Mr. Uday Chugh (Founders)
- EICA: Chef Abhiru Biswas (President)
- Chief Guest: Dr. Shankar Ghosh, Minister-in-Charge for Tourism & Parliamentary Affairs, Government of West Bengal.

Objectives
- Promote global food & beverage products in eastern and north-eastern India.
- Strengthen culinary innovation, food tourism, and hospitality development.
- Create opportunities for:
- Chefs
- Food entrepreneurs
- Hospitality professionals
- Importers & distributors
- International F&B stakeholders

Planned Activities
- Joint workshops & culinary competitions
- Festivals & product showcases
- Chef-led engagements & mentorship programs
- Industry outreach and government engagement

Regional Focus
- Active presence across West Bengal, Sikkim, Odisha, Jharkhand, and the north-eastern states.
- Expansion planned into Bihar and Chhattisgarh.
- Aim: Position eastern India as a hub for culinary innovation and food tourism, while showcasing local traditions and ingredients alongside international products.

Leadership Voices
- Chef Abhiru Biswas (EICA): > “EICA will create opportunities for FIFI members and global F&B companies to engage with the regional culinary community through events, showcases, and chef-led activities.”

- Mr. Amit Lohani (FIFI): > “This MoU connects the global food and beverage community with eastern India’s vibrant culinary ecosystem, introducing international trends while highlighting the region’s rich heritage.”

Big Picture
This collaboration is about bridging global F&B with local culinary talent, while also supporting tourism and hospitality growth. It strengthens eastern India’s visibility on the global food map, positioning the region as both a cultural destination and a market for international products.