Following China’s rejection of non-basmati consignments over alleged genetically modified organisms (GMO) contamination, Apeda has strictly enforced a new Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) requiring mandatory GMO testing at accredited labs before issuing export allocation certificates. This regulatory intervention aims to shield Indian rice exporters against saturation and restrictive measures in traditional African markets like Senegal and Benin, while aggressively diversifying trade towards high-potential regions like the Philippines and Indonesia. Simultaneously, leveraging the port’s strategic location, AM Green has partnered with the VOC Port Authority through an MoU to develop a ₹2,000-crore green ammonia marine bunkering hub with a 200 ktpa capacity by 2029-30. This eco-friendly maritime project is positioned to scale up to 500 ktpa by 2035 with an ultimate total investment of ₹5,000 crore.