Bhubaneswar, March 9: The US Commercial Service, Calcutta, and the Indian Chamber of Commerce have jointly launched the country’s eighth American business corner here.

The centre will function from the Indian Chamber of Commerce office in Bhubaneswar. Launching the business centre yesterday, US consul general of Hyderabad Katherine S. Dhanani said: “The trade centre will work as a connector between the entrepreneurs from Odisha and the USA. Inbound trade delegations from the USA are now very much aware of the commercial opportunities in Odisha, especially in sectors such as agriculture and food processing.”

Vishal Agarwal, chairman of the Odisha Expert Committee of the Indian Chamber of Commerce told The Telegraph: “Odisha is known for its minerals and there is a lot of interest among the American companies that have expertise in manufacturing machinery used in mineral processing industry. But now, Odisha is also emerging as a hub for agriculture, horticulture and aquaculture activities. The business corner will help local entrepreneurs in exploring the American market.”

Richard R. Craig, principal commercial officer of the US Consulate in Calcutta, said: “Several US-based companies have already shown interest in setting up their units in Odisha and helping local farmers in adding value to their products, preservation and food-processing activities. The business centre will help towards coordinating with various agencies to actualise the projects.”