Shrimp, sustainability, and global glory for Highland Agro Foods

Marking a proud moment for Odisha and India, Pratik Jena, Managing Director of Highland Agro Foods Private Limited, has been honoured with the prestigious ET Indo Global Leaders Award for Entrepreneurial Visionary Leading a New-Age Global Agro Export Group. 

In his address, the young visionary shared powerful insights on the future of the global agro-food business, emphasising the strategic innovations required to drive the sector forward. He also discussed the current FTD trade agreement with the UK and its implications for India's agro-food landscape, while candidly expressing his views on the tariffs imposed by the US and the way they impact India's exports.

Accompanying Jena at this prestigious event was Anil Kumar, Director of Al Fresco HAF Overseas Trading LLC, Dubai, (Highland Agro’s Dubai-based subsidiary). Al Fresco HAF LLC focuses on supplying premium agro-food products to the HoReCa and retail markets overseas, underscoring the group’s growing international presence.

Hailing from Balasore, Odisha, fondly known as the Missile City of India, Pratik Jena’s journey is one of determination and vision. Inspired by his father, Shri Rabindra Jena, Chairman of Highland Group, he embraced leadership with a commitment to sustainability and innovation, propelling Highland Agro Foods into the forefront of India's agro-export industry.

Recognising his significant contributions, Jena was also invited to a high-level panel discussion at the event alongside global dignitaries such as Ismail Al Naqi (Director General, Freezones Authority of Ajman), Luthfullah Khader Basha (Director, Casagrand), and other eminent leaders, where he spoke about the future of sustainable aquaculture and global trade in Agro Food industry.

Highland Group: Pioneering Innovation & Empowerment in Aquaculture

Highland Agro Foods India actively partners with local low-income farmers and employs over 70 per cent women, from ground-level workers to leadership roles, setting a benchmark for women-led success in the agro sector. Speaking passionately on this, Jena said, "The patience and resilience that women inherently possess are truly unparalleled. Our vision has always centered on empowerment, and across every level of our organisation, from our security personnel to our highest-ranking leaders, women stand as the torchbearers of progress and change."