India And Taiwan Enact Mutual Recognition Agreement For Organic Products

New Delhi, Jul 11 (KNN) The Indian Commerce Ministry announced on Wednesday that a Mutual Recognition Agreement (MRA) between India and Taiwan for organic products has come into force as of July 8.

This agreement is expected to streamline trade in organically-produced goods, including tea and medicinal plants.

The MRA aims to simplify export procedures by eliminating the need for dual certifications, thereby reducing compliance costs and adherence to multiple regulations.

This is anticipated to enhance trade opportunities in the organic sector between the two regions.

Under the agreement, major Indian organic products such as rice, processed food, green/black and herbal tea, and medicinal plant products will have easier access to the Taiwanese market.

Conversely, Taiwanese organic products will benefit from similar advantages in the Indian market. The implementing agencies for this agreement are India's Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) and Taiwan's Agriculture and Food Agency.

Key provisions of the MRA include allowances for agricultural products produced and handled organically in accordance with India's National Programme for Organic Production to be sold in Taiwan as organically-produced, including the display of the 'India Organic' logo.

Similarly, Taiwanese agricultural products produced and handled organically in conformity with the Organic Agriculture Promotion Act will be permitted for sale in India as organically-produced, including the display of the Taiwan Organic logo.

This agreement marks a significant step in facilitating organic trade between India and Taiwan, potentially opening new avenues for producers and exporters in both regions.

(KNN Bureau)