New Delhi: The government is working on MRA (Mutual Recognition Agreement) with key nations to facilitate Organic exports, Commerce Secretary Sunil Barthwal said.
MRAs aim to facilitate trade by reducing duplicative testing and certification processes, thereby saving time and costs for businesses.
Mr Barthwal said this while inaugurating the three-day Biofach India-2024 event at India Expo Mart, Greater Noida on Saturday. BIOFACH INDIA 2024, organized by Nuernberg Messe and APEDA, aims to redefine organic, natural, and millets produce, sparking trends and innovations to shape the industry’s future.
Commerce Secretary also released APEDA’s paper on the Indian organic market and export promotion plan, which focuses on critical difficulties, value chain issues, and industry case studies.
Appreciating APEDA’s efforts in developing the report and inviting stakeholders to share their views and concerns, the Commerce Secretary emphasized in his keynote address five key areas for increasing India’s share of the organic export market: certification and testing, labeling, packaging, branding, and logistics. He also emphasized the recent budget allocation for the establishment of 100 quality control and food quality labs, which will assist the industry in meeting global standards.
Speaking at the event, Sonia Prashar, Managing Director and Chairperson of the Board of NuernbergMesse India, stated, “India’s organic food exports reached USD 494.80 million in 2023–24, demonstrating growing sustainability awareness and establishing India as a global player in the organic industry.”
Abhishek Dev, Chairman of APEDA, said India’s vast agricultural diversity, growing consumer demand for organic food products, and health awareness make Indian organic products a significant market player. BioFach India aims to promote these benefits.
The exhibition has been supported by key international and national stakeholders including ICCOA, IFOAM, OFAI, AIOI, AHNMI, and IIMR.
The Mission Organic Value Chain Development for North Eastern States (MOVCD-NER), Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, India, organized a special exhibit by all North Eastern States.
APEDA has been actively serving the Agri-export community for 37 years, including a dedicated organic promotion division to enhance India’s organic export sector.
