Krishak Bharati Cooperative Ltd (KRIBHCO) and Netherlands-based Farm Frites signed a Joint Venture Agreement (JVA) on February 12, 2025, to establish a state-of-the-art potato processing unit in Shahjahanpur, Uttar Pradesh.
KRIBHCO’s Managing Director, M.R. Sharma, and Farm Frites’ Chairman, Pieter de Bruijne, signed the agreement in the presence of KRIBHCO Chairman Dr. Chandrapal Singh and other directors. A high-level team from both companies, led by Pieter de Bruijne, visited Shahjahanpur on February 10 to finalize the project site.
The project will introduce premium Dutch potato varieties, including Santana and Quintera, grown across large areas in Shahjahanpur. A dedicated team from KRIBHCO and Farm Frites will provide high-quality seeds and technical guidance to farmers.
This initiative aims to increase farmers’ income while generating hundreds of jobs in the region. The project is classified as a Super Mega Project under Uttar Pradesh’s industrial policy, highlighting its economic significance.
KRIBHCO, one of India’s leading fertilizer cooperatives, operates a mega gas-based urea plant in Hazira, Gujarat, with an annual production capacity of 23 lakh MT. Through its subsidiary, KRIBHCO Fertilizers Ltd, it also owns a gas-based fertilizer complex in Uttar Pradesh, producing 11 lakh MT of urea annually. KRIBHCO is a key promoter of Oman India Fertilizer Company and supplies fertilizers, certified seeds, bio-stimulants, and other farm inputs to Indian farmers.
With this venture, KRIBHCO expands into the agri-processing sector, reinforcing its commitment to farmer welfare and rural development.
Founded over 50 years ago, Farm Frites specializes in producing a wide range of potato fries and specialty products. It supplies major global food chains, including McDonald’s, KFC, and Domino’s, and delivers products to over 100 countries. The company cultivates 15 lakh MT of potatoes worldwide and offers more than 80 varieties of fries, specialties, and appetizers.
This partnership marks a significant step in boosting India’s potato processing industry while strengthening farmer livelihoods in Uttar Pradesh.
