Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal on Thursday chaired a meeting to prepare a roadmap for securing Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) approvals for Indian agricultural and fisheries products in global markets. The initiative is aimed at boosting exports and improving incomes of farmers and fisherfolk, according to a report by ANI.
Minister's Statement on the Initiative
Sharing details of the meeting on X (formerly Twitter), Goyal stated that he “chaired a meeting to prepare a roadmap for obtaining SPS (Sanitary and Phytosanitary) approvals for Indian agricultural and fisheries products across global markets.” He emphasized that the initiative is directed at “boosting exports, enhancing the income of farmers and fisherfolk, and strengthening the food processing industry.”
Understanding SPS Measures
Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) measures refer to international safety and quality standards related to food, plants, and animals. These regulations ensure that imported agricultural and fisheries products are free from harmful chemicals, pests, diseases, and contamination before entering foreign markets. SPS approvals are considered critical for Indian exporters, as many countries mandate stringent testing, certification, and quality checks before permitting imports of food and agricultural products.
Focus Areas of the Meeting
The discussions centered on improving India’s export competitiveness through stronger certification systems and better alignment with global food safety standards. According to Goyal, deliberations also focused on “strengthening quality infrastructure, sustainability, market access, certification systems, and unlocking higher value realisation through coordinated efforts of all stakeholders.”
India's Expanding Export Efforts
India has been expanding efforts to increase agricultural and marine exports to newer global markets while improving compliance with international quality and food safety norms. The roadmap for SPS approvals is a key step in this direction, aimed at reducing trade barriers and enhancing the global acceptance of Indian products.
The meeting underscores the government's commitment to supporting farmers and fisherfolk by facilitating access to high-value markets. By aligning with SPS standards, India expects to not only boost export volumes but also achieve better price realizations for its agricultural and fisheries produce.
