Challenge for Stevia promoters

[seetharam annadana]

Dear Growers and processors of stevia

I am not sure you are all aware of the fact that, white powder and debitterised steviosides are currently imported into India. This is acceptable as the market here is small and investments for a processing unit is high. However the disturbing fact is that also Stevai green leaf powder is now being imported at prices lower than production costs in India. This would be a serious threat to the Indian farming community. Members of the forum are welcome to share their views on how to go about tthis new problem.

Importers of white powder, developing sachets and tablets are only looking at the buisness oppurtunity, however as a community we need to look at the overall development of this industry and imports is only a start. FIHI is shortly proposing to open up white powder purification facilties in India on a contract basis to farmers, and the subject will be seriously looked at in the comming EXCO. Members views on such a inhouse option is also welcome.

Using the green leaf, brown liquid and brown powder the need to develop the herbal branded product development should also be looked at. White powder ruins the herbal branding as the process goes through steps unacceptable to Herbal Concepts. The promotion of stevia in India through the Herbal branding would only be possible if members and entrupreners come upi with products developed using green dried leaf as raw material.

Please send in your views on the above subjects.