Strengthening SPS management capacity in India to enhance competitiveness and better realisation by farmers

Abstract

The vast production base offers India tremendous opportunities for export. India is among the 15 leading exporters of agricultural products in the world. The increased globalization and liberalization of international markets, facilitated by both bilateral trade agreements and the WTO, are opening new export markets for Indian agricultural products, both fresh and processed. But the share of agricultural exports in total exports decreased from 11.20 per cent in 2004–05 to 10.47 per cent in 2010–11. SPS issues are affecting India's export adversely. Despite being one of the major horticultural producers in the world, India is the small player in the global horticultural export trade, a major challenge is now meeting sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) standards. FFV is one of the categories of food items most frequently affected by sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) measures. Maximum Residue Limit (MRLs) of pesticide is the main SPS issue in case of fruits and vegetables. Strengthening SPS management capacity in India can contribute to growth, better realisation and poverty reduction by increasing the competitiveness of Indian exports, improving domestic food safety and promoting adoption of safer and more sustainable agricultural practices.