India, Australia sign pact for trade in organic products

NEW DELHI: India and Australia on Wednesday signed a mutual recognition agreement to facilitate the shipment of organic products between the two countries. The pact, which was part of the trade deal, will help in the shipment of unprocessed plant products, excluding seaweed, aquatic plants, and greenhouse crops, processed food and wine, the commerce department said in a statement. Commerce secretary Sunil Barthwal said that with organic produce commanding 30-40% higher prices, farmers benefit from improved livelihoods. “Organic products must not be so-called organic but certified organic, with every stakeholder in the chain taking pride in maintaining that integrity,” he said. Last year, India’s organic exports to Australia were estimated at $9 million with Australian officials highlighting opportunities in cereals, tea, spices, beverages and wine.