India has set an ambitious goal to double its organic product exports to over $1 billion by FY 2025-26, up from the current $0.5 billion, according to government sources. This initiative is part of a broader effort to strengthen the country’s position in the global organic market by addressing quality concerns and enhancing trade efficiency.
To mitigate issues such as rejection of exported edible products, officials are emphasizing the importance of Mutual Recognition Agreements (MRAs). Existing MRAs with the European Union, China, and Bhutan have already facilitated smoother trade, and ongoing discussions with Qatar aim to further expand the reach of Indian organic exports. MRAs align quality standards between trading nations, streamline approval processes, and build mutual trust, reducing delays in international trade.
As part of the effort, India is upgrading its digital infrastructure under the National Programme for Organic Production (NPOP) to improve market access, traceability, and regulatory oversight. The new system incorporates IoT-based sampling techniques to enhance inspection, testing, and certification processes, ensuring compliance with global quality standards.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah is set to unveil revised NPOP regulations on January 9, marking the first major overhaul in over a decade. Meanwhile, the Export Inspection Council of India (EIC) has expanded its testing and certification infrastructure, increasing accredited laboratories from 21 in FY 2013-14 to 78 by FY 2024-25. The number of EIC-approved export establishments has also nearly doubled over the past decade, reaching 1,446, while export certificates accepted by importing countries have grown from 61,000 to over 120,000.
By prioritizing quality improvements, regulatory harmonization, and robust international agreements, India is poised to achieve its export target and solidify its reputation as a trusted supplier of high-quality organic products on the global stage.
