Access To Australian Markets Eased For Organic Products With India Signing Mras

(MENAFN- KNN India) New Delhi, Sep 26 (KNN) India and Australia have signed a Mutual Recognition Arrangement (MRA) for organic products, reflecting their shared commitment under the India–Australia Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (ECTA) and further strengthening the strategic partnership between the two nations.

The agreement was signed on 24 September 2025 at Vanijya Bhavan, New Delhi, in the presence of Commerce Secretary Sunil Barthwal, APEDA Chairman Abhishek Dev, and Tom Black, First Assistant Secretary, Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF), Government of Australia.

The arrangement will be implemented by APEDA, Ministry of Commerce & Industry, India, and DAFF, Government of Australia.

The MRA covers a range of organic products including unprocessed plant products (excluding seaweed, aquatic plants, and greenhouse crops), processed foods made with certified organic plant-based ingredients, and wine.

It establishes mutual recognition of each country's organic standards and certification systems, reducing compliance requirements for exporters and creating new opportunities for farmers and stakeholders.

Sunil Barthwal underlined the role of India's National Programme for Organic Production (NPOP) in maintaining rigorous standards, ensuring transparency, and enhancing credibility in the organic ecosystem.

He stressed that organic certification should represent a system of integrity that safeguards farmers' incomes, with organic produce often fetching 30–40 per cent higher prices.

He also emphasised the importance of clear labelling, strong penalties for violations, and greater capacity building and advisory support for farmers.

Tom Black praised India's growing organic sector and acknowledged the contribution of the Indian diaspora in strengthening organic trade between the two countries.

India exported organic products worth USD 8.96 million to Australia in FY 2024–25, with psyllium husk, coconut milk, and rice leading the export basket.

With the new arrangement, India's organic exports are expected to rise further by lowering trade barriers, ensuring certification equivalence, and supporting wider market access.

(KNN Bureau)

MENAFN26092025000155011030ID1110116417