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nations have lifted the ban on mangoes from

India. It is very good news for mango exporters from India. APEDA,

on its part, has introduced a vapour heat treatment (VHP) unit for the exporters. I

am happy to note that this facility has been very beneficial to mango exporters.

APEDA along with the Commerce Ministry has been working on boosting exports of basmati and non-basmati

rice to African countries. Export of non-basmati rice has increased by 12% from April to December 2014. APEDA is

looking out for export opportunities in sugar, wheat, veggies and wine to Lebanon.

In order to have clear information and tracking of the consignment, APEDA has introduced a traceability system, an IT enabled

monitoring system co-opting all stakeholders in the supply chain into a single system. Peanut.net, Hortinet, Grapenet, Anarnet and Meat.net are some of the IT-enabled traceability systems established in recent times. Going by the usage and the experience so far, the programme has been hugely successful. Thanks to the support of the stakeholders.

Merchandise Exports from Indian Scheme (MEIS), a new scheme introduced in the Foreign Trade Policy 2015-2020 would provide a higher level of support for the processed and packaged agricultural and food items. This is in line with aspiration to ‘value-add’ the agri-exports from India.

Organic products from India have a greater name and value in the global market. To seize this opportunity, APEDA participated for the first time in the Natural Products Expo West in California. The response for India origin organic, natural and specialty food and beverages

and natural living products has been very encouraging. APEDA participated in the International Food and Drink event held in

London. Visitors were greeted with ‘Live Demonstration’ and tasting of vegetarian and non-vegetarian biryani daily.

Once again I would like to thank you all for overwhelming support to the e-Apex Update. Do let us know your views

on the content and its usefulness to your business. If you have any suggestions on the newsletter or on

any of our programmes, please do write to me at chairman@apeda.gov.in

Santosh SarangiChairman, APEDA

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Agricultural & Processed Food Products Export Development Authority(Ministry of Commerce & Industry, Govt. of India),

NCUI Building 3, Siri Institutional Area August Kranti Marg, New Delhi - 110 016, India

Phone : 91-11-26513204, 26514572, 26534186, Fax : 91-11-26526187

040910121422

APEDA in the News

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APEDA at The Fruit Logistica – 2015, Berlin

APEDA Participated in IFE London

APEDA at Natural Products Expo West – 2015

Events and Workshops

APEDA introduces Traceability System in India

Country Profile - UAE

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APEDA in the News

APEDA to EncourAgE mAngo ExPorts by finAncing stAtioning of insPEctors

In a significant move to help Indian exporters entering Japanese mango market, Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) has decided to bear 90% of the expenses incurred for stationing of quarantine inspectors for the current year in India.

In this regard, APEDA had received representations from mango exporters requesting to consider bearing of expenses of stationing of Japanese Quarantine Inspectors in India for the Vapour Heat Treatment (VHT). Unlike the European Union or United States, Japan needs Vapour Heat Treatment for all mango consignments as a mitigation measure against Quarantine Pests.

For almost two decades till 2006, Indian mangoes were banned in Japan due to suspected pest infestation by fruit flies. Even after the lifting of ban, Indian mangoes found it difficult to enter Japan market due to expensive inspections and strict regulations imposed by it. The Japanese mango market is largely dominated by other Asian exporters like Pakistan and Bangladesh.

Mr Sudhanshu, Deputy General Manger & regional head, western region, APEDA, stated, “Japan has a good mango market and Indian exporters can explore the market with supported conditions. Mangoes being sent to Japan need to be vapour heat treated. So APEDA had setup some vapour heat treatment facilities in Vashi, Navi Mumbai; Uttar Pradesh; and Andhra Pradesh. Exports of mangoes to Japan were not significant as exporters were not interested in the market. Due to this, in the last two years, Japanese inspectors were not called to India. But this year, we are getting responses from exporters from different states who are interested in exporting mangoes to Japan.”

He further added, “Japanese inspectors will be stationed in India for inspecting the consignments, where vapour heat treatment facility is available. Under their supervision, processing of mangoes can be done according to requirements of quarantine department of Japanese government. APEDA and exporters together will bear the

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expenses of stationing of quarantine inspecting authorities in India. Japanese government is very supportive in the process with Indian government. Not much export has happened even after lifting of ban in 2006, so APEDA is making all efforts to help exporters enter the market.”

Source : http://www.fnbnews.com

first buffAlo mEAt ExPorts to russiA to stArt in 6-8 wEEks

India’s buffalo meat export to Russia has commenced from four integrated units approved by FSVPS.

Three months after formal approval for import, Russia’s official veterinary and phytosanitary service monitor, Rosselkhoznadzor, has appointed an inspector for India. The primary assignment of the inspector is to visit buffalo meat processing plants, pack houses and other units intended to get involved in exports and approve the consignment.

The expert will monitor buffalo meat production and dispatch from India and will be acquainted with the raw material suppliers of Indian establishments that are going to export to Russia, said the agency.

“Exports is allowed only after clearance of consignments by the Russian inspector. Exports

is possible only after the inspector certifies the consignment, which was a part of our original agreement.”

Russia opened its market for Indian buffalo meat after a long period of ban. Until recently, Russia was among a number of countries which had banned import of meat and poultry products from India, due to an earlier occurrence of foot and mouth disease. The others had lifted the ban.

“India replaced Brazil to emerge the world’s largest supplier of buffalo meat in global markets last year. For several years, our buffalo meat exports have been rising by 25-40 per cent annually. This year, we would surpass $6 billion,” said Ajai Sahai, director-general of the Federation of Indian Export Organisations. India’s export of buffalo meat was $4.35 bn in 2013-14, a rise of 36 per cent from $3.2 bn in 2012-13.

India exported only $195 million of agri products to Russia in 2013-14. And, despite supplying 60 per cent of the world’s buffalo meat, India was absent from the Russian market. India exports around $4,500 mn worth of meat and poultry products annually, of which buffalo meat is 95 per cent.

Total exports of buffalo meat from India stood at 1.47 million tonnes worth Rs 29,282.58 crores in the financial year 2014-15 largely to Vietnam Social Republic, Malaysia, Egypt Arab Republic, Thailand, Saudi Arabia and Jordan.

Source : http://www.business-standard.com

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APEDA cAutions ExPortErs on quAlity of grAPEs

Traders have been asked to exercise caution while exporting grapes this year to avoid any possible rejection as it expressed concern over the quality of the fruit due to recent unseasonal hailstorms in Maharashtra. The unseasonal hailstorm has hit the grape growing areas in Maharashtra, which is likely to affect the quality of fruits. Hence it is advised that extreme caution may be exercised while packing consignments for exports according to APEDA. The state produces about 21-22 lakh tonnes of grapes, of which it exports about 18-19 lakh tonnes. Major exporting nations are Netherlands, Russia, the UK, United Arab Emirates, Bangladesh and Saudi Arabia.

Source: The Economic Times

inDiA sEEks russiAn noD for its fArm ProDucts cErtificAtion

Exports of buffalo meat and agricultural items from India to Russia are yet to pick up despite the

removal of import restrictions early this year as the country has not relaxed its quarantine laws.

APEDA is in talks with the Russian quality control organization to convince officials to recognize Indian labs and certifications for speedy exports, a Commerce Ministry official told.

APEDA officials are negotiating with Russian agencies for recognition of quality certifications given by the Indian government and also of its labs.

Inspectors from Russia’s Federal Service for Veterinary and Phytosanitary Surveillance (FSVPS) visited some facilities in India recently and approved consignments for meat exports.

Russia allowed exports of buffalo meat and dairy products and also lifted several restrictions on agricultural items from India early this year after its relations with Western countries soured due to the Ukrainian crisis.

APEDA is trying to convince Russia about India’s impeccable track record of over four decades in exporting various farm products and buffalo meat.

“India exports boneless buffalo meat to over 60 countries around the world. There has not been a single incidence of livestock related disease outbreak for over forty years,” the official said. Russia imported $43 billion worth of food items in 2014, and holds a big opportunity for India to tap. India is also in talks for a free trade agreement with Russia and Customs Union members Kazakhstan and Belarus.

India’s total exports to Russia last fiscal were just $2.15 billion, which was a small fraction of total Russian imports worth $318 billion.

Source: Business Line

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inDiA to ExPort bAsmAti ricE to irAn

Basmati rice exports to Iran, the biggest destination for the aromatic and long-grained rice from the country, are likely to commence from the next fiscal following assurance from the Iranian authorities. Tehran has not issued any new permit for import of Basmati rice from India since October 2014.

Iran authorities informed an Indian delegation which visited Tehran in February 2015 that last fiscal’s Basmati imports of 1.4 million tonne (mt) from India were in ‘excess’, thus the carry forward stock was ‘high’ in the current fiscal. According to Iranian authorities the country needs import of about 10 lakh tonne of rice annually for meeting domestic demand and they will soon start issuing new permits for rice import.

Of total exports of 3.7 mt of Basmati from the country in 2013-14, 1.4 mt was shipped to Iran. Shipment to Iran would fall to around 9 lakh tonne in the current fiscal. Iran’s annual consumption of rice is estimated at around 3 mt. Around 2 mt is produced in the country while the rest is imported from India and other countries.

Iran and India have also agreed to consider to have referral labs in India for testing rice consignments rejected by Tehran because of presence of pesticide residue and heavy metals etc. Henceforth, in case of disputes on pesticide residue levels, the report of referral lab would be final.

Rice shipments to Iran got a boost when India launched a rupee settlement mechanism from April 2012 with Iran to avoid sanctions from the US and EU. As part of the initiative, state-owned UCO Bank has tied up with Iranian lenders — Parsian, Pasargad, Saman and EN Banks — for settlements of dues.

Recently, a 20-member delegation of commerce ministry officials and trade representatives visited Iran to discuss issues concerning Basmati and explore the possibility of increasing buffalo meat and soyameal exports.

Source: http://www.financialexpress.com

mAngoEs to run unDEr hot wAtEr bEforE ExPort to Eu

Indian mango exporters will now have to give their products ‘hot water treatment’ before exporting them to the European market. The National Plant Protection Organization (NPPO) has now made it mandatory for mangoes to undergo this treatment before they are given phytosanitary certificates.

NPPO is a phytosanitary certification authority authorized by the Centre. According to APEDA, the treatment will be available at two existing facilities at Ratnagiri and Sindhudurg in the Konkan region of Maharashtra.

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APEDA has also sanctioned a new Rs 2.8 crore facility in Mumbai to be established by the Maharashtra State Agriculture Marketing Board (MSAMB). NPPO officials will inspect consignments at the APEDA-approved pack houses before issuing the certificates. APEDA has 8 registered pack houses in Maharashtra.

EU lifted the ban on Indian Mangoes bringing cheer to mango growers in India. Mangoes, eggplant, two types of gourd and the taro plant from India were banned by the European Union following concerns raised about high levels of contamination, mainly from non-European fruit flies. The emergency measure came into effect on May 1, 2014 and the ban was supposed to stay till December 2015.

India produces 1,63,37,400 tonne mango every year and is the largest producer in the world. A recent study said that EU imports over 224 million kg of mangoes with a value of approximately 265 million euros. The Gulf accounts for 20% of the Indian export market. This year onwards, APEDA has also begun online registration of mango orchards wanting to export to overseas markets on the lines of ‘Grapenet’, a facility that registers grape vineyards for being eligible for exports. Called ‘Mangonet’ the new facility will register mango orchard owners and till date around 2,000 orchards in Ratnagiri, Raigad, Sindhudurg and Pune have registered.

Significantly, last year, maximum quantity of mangoes were exported to France, Germany, New Zealand, Switzerland and the UK. Other markets include Saudi Arabia, Oman, Kuwait, Singapore, the UAE, Hong Kong, and Bahrain. Mr Ajit Gogate, Chairman, Devgad Taluka Amba Utpadak Sahakari Sanstha, a society of 700 farmers growing Alphonso in Sindhudurg

region, said the decision to lift the ban was welcome but a majority of the farmers sent their produce to Mumbai from where exporters lifted their produce. Like last year, this year as well, mango production has been affected by unseasonal rains and this could result in a late start for the mango season in 2015. Estimates say around 30% of the area has been affected.

Source: http://www.financialexpress.com

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APEDA participated in Fruit Logistica, Berlin from 4th to 6th February 2015 which is the leading trade show for the International fresh produce trade offering the sectors connected with the fresh fruit and vegetable business and an ideal opportunity to present their products across the entire added-value chain, from growing to the point-of-sale. Compact duration, focused appeal to target groups and maximum effectiveness are the key features of Fruit Logistica. The show presents the technical expertise required for the logistics and handling fruit and vegetables at the point-of-sale in the retail sector. APEDA’s participation was organised by Mr A S Rawat, GM and Mr BK Baruah, AGM.

India Pavilion was inaugurated by Mr. Christian Schmidt, Minister of Food and Agriculture, Germany.

16 leading fresh produce exporting companies from India exhibited fresh fruits like pomegranate, mangoes and table grapes and vegetables like Okra, Onion, Corn etc were displayed in the event.

The demand for fresh produce continues to expand in European Union (EU) market and India has a great opportunity to expand the export of its fruits and vegetables to this market. The primary objective of the entire exercise including participation at the Fruit Logistica 2015 was to showcase fresh produce from India as products of international quality standards. The trade show gave an opportunity to Indian suppliers to meet one on one with key buyers from across the world.

Meetings and InteractionsBuyer-Seller meetings were conducted during the show days at the APEDA common area. Also Shri Rawat presided over the meetings and interaction conducted by various leading publications on India’s emergence in the fresh produce sector. The India pavilion was managed with a clear strategy of harnessing the market potential of fresh produce from India in the highly valuable World market. The effort was directed

APEDA at The Fruit Logistica – 2015, Berlin

towards positioning India as an active participant in the world fresh produce market. The information and promotion targeted to the trade was generic and had no specific Brand Focus. The focus was on India as a credible source for fresh produce.The exhibitors expressed satisfaction with their participation at Fruit Logistica and confirmed increased sales as a result of the participation under APEDA pavilion. Fruit Logistica provides Indian companies in fruit and vegetable trading an opportunity to present their range of product and services to buyers from across the world. One of the main attractions of

Fruit Logistica is that it is a compact, highly effective show focusing on specific target groups. In particular, it offers exhibitors an excellent venue for presenting their products to an international trade public and establishing new business contacts.

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APEDA participated in the International food & drink event (IFE) organised in the ExCel exhibition centre in London between 22-25th March 2015 along with 16 exporters. The event was concurrent to Pro Pac and Waste-Works exhibition alongside.

Exhibition focussed on food products was in 11 specialised halls i.e. Great British Kitchen, Artisan Market, New Products live, Taste the World Live, General Food etc.

APEDA was allotted stand in Taste the world live. The theme of taste the world was to have the tastes of the world for the Importers and visitors with live demonstration/ tasting of the food of different parts of the world. APEDA was represented by Shree Upendra K.Vats, DGM and Smt Samidha Gupta, AGM.

India Pavilion displayed Agricultural products like Rice, Dehydrated Vegetables, pulses, snacks, frozen snacks, fresh innovative ready to eat products like simply preserved Corn, cassava (without the use of preservatives), Cereal Preparations like Pappadams, Mouth fresheners, herbal products, spices and condiments, Organic cereals, confectionery and Jaggery, fruit pulps and pastes.

APEDA Participated in IFE London

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Live demonstration and tasting of Vegetarian and Non Vegetarian Biryani was also organised by APEDA in the show. Biryani was prepared by local Restaurant M/s Laguna and was served to around 200- 300 visitors daily and according to the remarks of tasting campaign, Indian Basmati Rice is of wonderful taste. Importers showed their interest in Indian food products.

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APEDA at Natural Products Expo West – 2015

India in the World MarketIndia is one of the potential suppliers in the global organic market. Various categories of organic food products are exported under NPOP and NOP certification. Growth in exports of around 17% in terms of volume and 8% in terms of value was registered in 2014 over the previous year. The major organic commodities exported are Basmati Rice, Tea, Sugar, Spices, Dry Fruits, Sesame, Soybean, Medicinal Plants & their processed products. Approx. 42% of Indian organic products are exported to USA followed by the EU (32%), and rest to other counties viz. South-East Asian countries, Middle East and Africa.

Natural Products Expo West is the world's largest event devoted to natural and specialty food and beverages, organics, supplements, health and beauty and natural living products. This is the place where the foreign companies meet the biggest distributors specialized in the natural and certified organic market in the US.

Considering the global demand of Indian Organic products, APEDA participated for the first time in the Natural Products Expo West/ Engredea Exhibition from 6-8 March 2015 at Anaheim Convention Center, Anaheim, CA, USA to unleash this unique opportunity for organic trade

promotion in USA, one of the largest and growing market for organic products in the World.

APEDA participated for the first time along with four other exporters. India showcased its strength in organic products and varieties that it can offer by displaying Basmati Rice, Tulsi Tea, Cashew, Spices and Condiments. Shree Navneesh Sharma, DGM and Smt Saswati Bose, DGM represented APEDA in the show.

APEDA coordinated with the participating Exporters to organize the promotional activities at the APEDA booth. A wet sampling was done by Nature Bio Food Pvt. Ltd to provide the taste of Indian Cuisine of Biriyani made from Organic brown Basmati rice. Hot herbal tea made from Indian basil was served by Organic India Pvt. Ltd.

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The Consulate General of India, Ambassador Venkatesan Ashok visited the APEDA booth and interacted with the participating Indian exporters. The Consul General appreciated the efforts of APEDA in organizing the India Pavilion. During the discussion Indian Exporters showed their keen interest to participate in this event on a regular basis under the APEDA pavilion as USA is a growing market for organic products.

A wide range of products were at display in the various booths specially the value added organic products.

Opportunities for futureUSA being the largest market • for organic products in the World, there are plenty of opportunities to meet the market demandIndia has the potential to • supply all varieties of organic products to USAt present, India’s organic • export to USA is the largest in terms of volume. As USA has a large population of non

residential Indians, the scope of market for Indian products are always high. What is required is a platform to showcase these products at right place and at the right time. The trade fairs are a promotional platform that generates opportunities for Indian exporters.Although there is a stringent • regulatory requirement from USDA, the Indian

organic exporters certified by certification bodies accredited under NOP by APEDA have the potential to tap this market by meeting their regulatory requirements.As Counsel General of India in • USA expressed his willingness to support this kind of promotional events, the scope manifolds.

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Events and Workshops

Direct Interaction between Mango Grower and Exporter organized jointly by APEDA and Mango Board, Dept. of Horticulture, Karnataka One day interaction between mango growers and exporters was held at Srinivasapur Taluk, Kolar District in Karnataka. The workshop was jointly organized by APEDA and Mango Board, Department of Horticulture, Govt. of Karnataka. Farmers, growers, exporters and officials of the State Horticulture Department were present during the interaction. Shri Prashant Waghmare, AGM represented APEDA and made a presentation during the workshop on the support extended by APEDA for export of fresh mangoes and initiatives taken through various measures and schemes. There was direct interaction between mango growers and exporters.

Pomegranate Cluster Development Meeting at Hiriyur, Chitradurga, Karnataka Shri A S Rawat, General Manager, APEDA, New Delhi chaired the meeting on Cluster Development for Pomegranate held at Hiriyur, Karnataka. Shri Prashant Waghmare, AGM, APEDA and Smt Thangam Ramachandran, AGM organized and attended the meeting. Shri Rawat explained that APEDA intended to explore possibilities of enhancing productivity of pomegranates in and around Hiriyur taluk, processing and marketing of fresh and value added products in exports and domestic markets. To achieve this object APEDA wants a common platform for the participation of all stakeholders and explained in detail the overall activities of cluster approach to be undertaken from pre-harvest, post-harvest, supply chain management, quality management, market development. State Govt.

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officials from the Department of Horticulture, exporters, representative of food parks and around 50 members participated in the meeting.

Pineapple Cluster Development Meeting at Muvattupuzha, Kerala Shri A.S.Rawat, General Manager and Shri Prashant Waghmare, AGM, APEDA participated in the Cluster Development meeting for Pineapple held at Vazhankulam Agro Processing Co. Ltd., Muvattupuzha, Cochin, Kerala. Shri Rawat pointed out that cluster approach is integrating the entire supply chain activities. He stressed on partnership of entire stakeholders in supply chain, focus on issues like transportation, infrastructure policy matters and convergence of funds from various funding agencies.

Increasing productivity of pineapple, adopting suitable package of practices and post harvest practices, were discussed. Vegetable and Fruit Promotion Council Keralam (VFPCK) would be the nodal agency for task forces in vegetable and pineapple clusters. APEDA officials along with VFPCK representative, Mr Gopala Krishnan of Geekay International and VAFPCL representative visited pineapple farms to have a better understanding of the present scenario. Officials of Vazhankulam Agro & Fruit Processing Industry, exporters, Pineapple Farmers Association and farmers were present during the meeting.

Vegetable & Banana Cluster Development Meeting at Cochin, Kerala Shri A.S.Rawat, General Manager and Shri Prashant Waghmare, AGM, APEDA participated in the Cluster Development meeting for fresh vegetables and Banana held at Cochin, Kerala. Shri Rawat informed that out of the 16 clusters identified nationally four are in Kerala. Initially 5 to 6 districts will be identified for cluster, based on market approach and produce only those vegetables which could be marketed. Intervention needed in the areas of area expansion, improved production, marketing, logistics etc will be addressed. APEDA has approved two pack houses at Thrissur and Wayanad. In Kannur, the inspection of land has been carried out and the proposal is under consideration. After linkage of cluster with exporters we can assess the further requirement for

setting up of pack houses. A taskforce will be set up to regularly monitor the progress of the cluster. State Govt. Officials, KSIE Officials, Officials of VFPCK and farmers were present during the meeting.

Meeting with officials of Wine Board and Exporters/Traders at BangaloreOn an invitation from the Karnataka Wine Board, Shri Prashant Waghmare, AGM, attended the meeting in their office. Shri Basappa Khote, Chairman, Karnataka Draksha Rasa Mandali, Dr. Krishna, Managing Director of Karnataka Wine Board and Shri Waghmare addressed the gathering. Around 40 participants attended the meeting which were represented by wineries, wine traders, growers, exporters. Shri Waghmare, AGM, APEDA interacted with the exporters and discussed the issues being faced by the industry and also gave a presentation on market development schemes of APEDA and market promotion and branding and invited the exporters for a next level of meeting.

Training Programme for certification of organic products (Aquaculture) at New Delhi Shri Prashant Waghmare, AGM, APEDA attended the training programme for certification of organic products (aquaculture) organized at New Delhi. The programme was organized under the Capacity Building Initiative for Trade Development in India (CITD) with EU.

Common Infrastructure Projects Generated From Southern Region APEDA Bangalore explored the possibility of setting up common infrastructure projects in the state of Kerala and had series of discussion with officials of Vegetable & Fruit Promotion Council of Keralam (VFPCK) and Central Food Research Development (CFRD). The discussions resulted in preparation of DPR’s and approval was accorded for the common infrastructure projects and following two MoU’s were signed.

1. APEDA signs MoU with Council for Food Research and Development (CFRD), KeralaAPEDA signed a MoU with Council for Food Research and Development (CFRD), Kerala for setting up of fruits and vegetables chilled storage and dehydration

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facility at village Elanji, Taluka Muvattupuzha, Ernakulam, Kerala to promote value addition and export of agri horti products from Kerala. The total project cost is Rs. 1055.00 lakhs wherein APEDA’s contribution will be Rs. 735.00 lakhs.

2. Setting up of Integrated Pack House for Fruits and Vegetables at Wayanad and Thrissur, Kerala APEDA signed a MoU with Vegetable and Fruits Promotion Council Keralam (VFPCK), Kerala for setting up of integrated pack houses for fruits and vegetables at Wayanad and Thrissur in Kerala. APEDA’s contribution towards the project will be to the tune of Rs. 430.92 lakhs. The pack houses will have facilities to process and pack fresh fruits and vegetables like banana, mango, brinjal, Okra, drumstick, gourds, lemon and yams.

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A training programme was organized by APEDA for strengthening the capacities in the certification of organic – Aquaculture under the Capacity Building Initiative for Trade Development in India (CITD) with EU at New Delhi from 20th – 23rd January, 2015.

The objectives of the training programme were to

To build the capacity building of • the Evaluation Committee (EC) members (Auditors/Assessors) for assessment of the organic aquaculture certification programmes of the CBs in India.To develop an understanding of • the organic aquaculture standard and procedure and audit procedures for the certification body under NPOP

Agri and Horti Food Fest 2015APEDA participated in 3 day Trade Fair “Agri Horti Food Fest 2015” jointly organised by Indian Chamber of Commerce and Department of Agriculture & Department of Food Processing Industries, Government of West Bengal at Kolkata. Agri Horti Food Fest 2015 aimed to showcase the potential of Bengal’s Agriculture, Horticulture, Floriculture, Processed Food, Dairy, Poultry & Meat Products and Fisheries. This event brings all the thinking heads together to develop an action agenda to address the issues related to the food processing sector and horticulture of West Bengal.

APEDA, Kolkata participated in the event and showcased the major items like horticultural, processed food products, etc. and also focused the exports from the Eastern Region.

Approximately 500 visitors visited APEDA pavilion and were given proper information.

Business Opportunities in Export of Processed Foods from West BengalDepartment of Food Processing Industries & Horticulture,

Government of West Bengal organized a Seminar on Business Opportunities in export of processed foods from West Bengal at Kolkata. Dr CB Singh, AGM, made a presentation on 12th Plan Scheme of APEDA for development of agri exports.

The programme covered the following areas:-Export of processed food products from West Bengal: Prospects & 1. OpportunitiesExport procedures and identifying buyers of processed foods.2. Growth and challenges in exporting marine fish.3. Success stories of a manufacturer exporters of APEDA.4.

Training Programme for Evaluation Committee Members for Assessment of

Organic Aquaculture

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Foreign Trade Policy 2015 - 2020

The much awaited Foreign Trade Policy 2015-2020 was unveiled on 01 April 2015 by Minister of Commerce & Industry Mrs. Nirmala Sitharaman. The new five year Foreign Trade Policy, 2015-20 provides a framework for increasing exports of goods and services as well as generation of employment and increasing value addition in the country, in keeping with the “Make in India” vision of Prime Minister. The focus of the new policy is to support both the manufacturing and services sectors, with a special emphasis on improving the ‘ease of doing business.

The new policy has introduced two new schemes on “Merchandise Exports from India Scheme (MEIS)” for export of specified goods to specified markets and “Services Exports from India Scheme (SEIS)” for increasing exports of notified services, in place of a plethora of schemes earlier, with different conditions for eligibility and usage.

Measures have been adopted to nudge procurement of capital goods from indigenous manufacturers under the EPCG scheme by reducing

specific export obligation to 75% of the normal export obligation. This will promote the domestic capital goods manufacturing industry. Such flexibilities will help exporters to develop their productive capacities for both local and global consumption. Measures have been taken to give a boost to exports of defense and hi-tech items. At the same time e-Commerce exports of handloom products, books/periodicals, leather footwear, toys and customized fashion garments through courier or foreign post office would also be able to get benefit of MEIS (for values upto 25,000 INR). These measures would not only capitalize on India's strength in these areas and increase exports but also provide employment.

A number of steps have been taken for encouraging manufacturing and exports under 100% EOU/EHTP/STPI/BTP Schemes. The steps include a fast track clearance facility for these units, permitting them to share infrastructure facilities, permitting inter unit transfer of goods and services, permitting them to set up warehouses near the port of export and to use duty free equipment for training purposes.

The main features of the Policy for 2015 – 2020

India to be made a significant • participant in world trade by 2020Merchandize exports from India • (MEIS) to promote specific services for specific Markets Foreign Trade PolicyFTP would reduce export • obligations by 25% and give boost to domestic manufacturingFTP benefits from both MEIS & • SEIS will be extended to units located in SEZsFTP 2015-20 introduces two new • schemes, namely "Merchandise Exports from India Scheme (MEIS)" and "Services Exports from India Scheme (SEIS)". The 'Services Exports from India Scheme' (SEIS) is for increasing exports of notified services. These schemes (MEIS and SEIS) replace multiple schemes earlier in place, each with different conditions for eligibility and usage. Incentives (MEIS & SEIS) to be available for SEZs also. E-Commerce of handicrafts, handlooms, books etc., eligible for benefits of MEIS.Agricultural and village industry • products to be supported across the globe at rates of 3% and 5% under MEIS. Higher level of support to be provided to process and packaged agricultural and food items under MEIS.Industrial products to be • supported in major markets at rates ranging from 2% to 3%.Served from India Scheme (SFIS) • will be replaced with Service Export from India Scheme (SEIS).

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Branding campaigns planned • to promote exports in sectors where India has traditional Strength.SEIS shall apply to 'Service • Providers located in India' instead of 'Indian Service Providers'.Business services, hotel and • restaurants to get rewards scrips under SEIS at 3% and other specified services at 5%.Duty credit scrips to be freely • transferable and usable for payment of customs duty, excise duty and service tax.Debits against scrips would be • eligible for CENVAT credit or drawback also.Nomenclature of Export House, • Star Export House, Trading House, Premier Trading House certificate changed to 1,2,3,4,5 Star Export House.The criteria for export • performance for recognition of status holder have been changed from Rupees to US dollar earnings.Manufacturers who are also • status holders will be enabled to self-certify their manufactured goods as originating from India.Reduced Export Obligation (EO) • (75%) for domestic procurement under EPCG scheme.Online procedure to upload • digitally signed document by Chartered Accountant/Company Secretary/Cost Accountant to be developed.Inter-ministerial consultations • to be held online for issue of various licences.No need to repeatedly submit • physical copies of documents available on Exporter Importer Profile.

Validity period of SCOMET • export authorization extended from present 12 months to 24 months.Export obligation period for • export items related to defence, military store, aerospace and nuclear energy to be 24 months instead of 18 monthsCalicut Airport, Kerala and • Arakonam ICDS, Tamil Nadu notified as registered ports for import and export.Vishakhapatnam and Bhimavarm • added as Towns of Export Excellence.Certificate from independent • chartered engineer for redemption of EPCG authorization no longer required. Increase exports to $900 billion • by 2019-20, from $466 billion in 2013-14

Raise India's share in world • exports from 2% to 3.5%.Merchandise Export from India • Scheme (MEIS) and Service Exports from India Scheme (SEIS) launched.

Higher level of rewards under • MEIS for export items with High domestic content and value addition.Chapter-3 incentives extended • to units located in SEZs.Export obligation under EPCG • scheme reduced to 75% to Promote domestic capital goods manufacturing.Foreign Trade Policy to be • aligned to Make in India, Digital India and Skills India initiatives.Duty credit scrips made freely • transferable and usable for payment of custom duty, excise duty and service tax.Export promotion mission • to take on board state GovernmentsUnlike annual reviews, FTP will • be reviewed after two-and-Half years.

Higher level of support for • export of defence, farm Produce and eco-friendly products.

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Union Budget 2015-Highlights

Fiscal Deficit * Fiscal deficit seen at 3.9 per

cent of GDP in 2015/16 * Remain committed to meet-

ing medium term fiscal deficit target of 3 per cent of GDP

* Current account deficit below 1.3 per cent of GDP

Growth * GDP growth seen at between 8

per cent and 8.5 per cent y/y * Aiming double digit growth

rate, achievable soon

Inflation * Expects consumer inflation to

remain close to 5 per cent by March, opening room for more monetary policy easing

* Monetary policy framework agreement with the RBI clearly states objective of keeping inflation below 6 per cent

Market ReformsPropose to merge commodities regulator with SEBI

To bring a new bankruptcy code in 2015/16

To amend the RBI act this year, and provide for a monetary policy com-mittee

To set up public debt management agency Proposes to introduce a public con-tract resolution of disputes bill To establish an autonomous bank board bureau to improve manage-ment of public sector banks

Policy Reforms * Propose to create a universal

social security system for all Indians

* To launch a national skills mis-sion soon to enhance employ-

ability of rural youth * To raise visa-on-arrival facility

to 150 countries from 43 * Allocates 346.99 billion rupees

for rural employment guaran-tee scheme in 2015/16

Taxation To abolish wealth tax* Replaces wealth tax with addi-

tional 2 pct surcharge on super rich

* Proposes to cut to 25 percent corporate tax over next four years

* Corporate tax of 30 percent is uncompetitive

* Net gain from tax proposals seen at 150.68 billion rupees

* Proposes to rationalize capital gains tax regime for real estate investment trusts

* Expects to implement goods and services tax by April 2016

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* To reduce custom duty on 22 items

* Basic custom duty on com-mercial vehicle doubled to 20 percent

* Proposes to increase service tax rate and education cess to 14 percent from 12.36 percent

* Plans to introduce direct tax regime that is internationally competitive on rates without exemptions

* Exemptions for individual tax payers to continue

* To enact tough penalties for tax evasion in new bill

* Tax dept to clarify indirect transfer of assets and dividend paid by foreign firms

Infrastructure * Investment in infrastructure

will go up by 700 bln rupees in 2015/16 over last year

* Plans to set up national invest-ment infrastructure fund

* Proposes tax-free infrastructure bonds for projects in roads, rail and irrigation projects

* Proposes 5 "ultra mega" power projects for 4,000 MW each

* Second unit of Kudankulam nuclear power station to be commissioned

* Will need to build additional 100,000 km of road

* Ports in public sector will be en-couraged to corporatise under Companies Act

Expenditure * Plan expenditure estimated at

about 4.65 trillion rupees* Non-plan expenditure seen at

about 13.12 trillion rupees

* Allocates 2.46 trillion rupees for defence spending

* Allocates 331.5 billion rupees for health sector

* If revenue improves, hope to raise budgeted allocations for rural job scheme by 50 billion rupees

Investment * Propose to do away with differ-

ent types of foreign investment caps and replace them with composite caps

* To allow foreign investment in alternative investment funds

* Public investment needed to catalyze investment

Agriculture In spite of the consequential • reduced fiscal space for the Centre, the Government has decided to continue supporting important national priorities such as agriculture, education, health, MGNREGA, and rural infrastructure including roads. Programmes targeted for the poor and the under-privileged, will be continued.Major steps are taken to ad-• dress the two major factors critical to agricultural produc-tion: soil and water. An ambi-tious Soil Health Card Scheme has been launched to improve soil fertility on a sustainable basis. In order to improve soil health, we propose to support Agriculture Ministry’s organic farming scheme – “Parampara-gat Krishi Vikas Yojana”. The Pradhan Mantri Gram Sinchai Yojana is aimed at irrigating the field of every farmer and im-proving water use efficiency to

provide `Per Drop More Crop’. An allocation of Rs 5,300 crore to support micro-irrigation, wa-tershed development and the Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana. To support the agriculture • sector with the help of effec-tive and hassle-free agriculture credit, with a special focus on small and marginal farmers,we allocate Rs 25,000 crore in • 2015-16 to the corpus of Rural Infrastructure Development Fund (RIDF) set up in NABARD; Rs 15,000 crore for Long Term Rural Credit Fund; Rs 45,000 crore for Short Term Coop-erative Rural Credit Refinance Fund; and Rs 15,000 crore for Short Term RRB Refinance Fund.Farm credit underpins the ef-• forts of our hard-working farm-ers. An allocation of Rs 8.5 lakh crore of farm loan credit during the year 2015-16. We are committed to provide • employment through MGNRE-GA. Rs 34,699 crore has been allocated for the programme.To increase the incomes of • farmers, it is imperative that we create a National agricultur-al market, which will have the incidental benefit of moderating price rises. A Unified National Agriculture Market would be set up with the help of States.

22

APEDA introduces Traceability System in India

APEDA has been undertaking a number of initiatives for market promotion and quality development for Indian agricultural and processed products exports in general. Some of the key issues that are constantly faced by Indian agricultural and processed food products in the penetration of major markets like European Union, USA, Japan, etc., have been the following:

Increasing global focus on food safety, especially • on residue monitoring, product standardization, Traceability, etc.,Regular Crisis due to pesticide residue, aflatoxin, • etc., in products exported from IndiaUse of the above as non-tariff barriers by • developed markets

To assure the importing countries that the quality requirements are being maintained at every level of supply chain, APEDA took initiatives to set up traceability mechanism in agricultural products. APEDA has come out with a number of initiatives in this area including setting up of information technology enabled monitoring systems co-opting all stakeholders in the supply chain into a single system in the recent past.

Introduction of Traceability Systems in India by APEDA Tracenet System, for enhancing the credibility of certification system of organic products, a user-friendly web- based traceability system has been implemented by APEDA since June 2010. This is world’s first ever web based traceability system implemented at national level for organic products in line with the National Programme for Organic Production (NPOP) for which APEDA is the Secretariat and the accrediting body for accreditation of Certification Bodies. The NPOP defines the standards and procedures to be followed for organic farming and certification. This Tracenet system helps in maintaining authentic information and related data of all the organic stakeholders under certification i.e. operators

(producers, processors traders, ICS) and Certification Bodies operating under the NPOP. Presently, the Tracenet software is being provided for use by the operators and Certification bodies. APEDA has further initiated the steps to extend the present traceability system from certification to the accreditation process. The Tracenet system covers certification of all horticulture and agriculture crops including cotton, Processed Foods and wild harvest. Eventually, it will be further upgraded with the inclusion of Livestock products (meat, poultry, dairy, honey) and Aquaculture products in the near future.

Peanut.net SystemHigher levels of aflatoxins in groundnuts have been a major concern of the importing countries. Therefore, it was essential to establish adequate controls to minimize possibilities of presence of the aflatoxins in groundnuts in excess of prescribed levels. In order to control and minimize possibilities of presence of the aflatoxins in groundnuts in excess of prescribed levels, a regulation for export of Peanuts and Peanut products through control of aflatoxins was developed. Export of groundnuts (peanuts) permitted subject to compulsory registration of contracts, controlled aflatoxins level certificate given by the laboratories nominated by APEDA. Based on the prescribed regulation, APEDA has developed Peanut.net- a web-based traceability system with the objective of tracing the source of consignment. The Stakeholders co-opted

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for the Peanut.net traceability system are processing units involved in shelling, grading, value added products manufacturing, etc., Exporters, Accredited Laboratories and APEDA. No certificate can be issued by any laboratory without going through this system. Each consignment of peanut export is accompanied by a certificate of Laboratory, Certificate of Export, Health certificate and Stuffing Certificate. This has helped India address Europe’s major concerns of prevalence of aflatoxin in Indian peanuts, thereby helping to avert major restrictions on exports of groundnut to EU.

HORTINET – Single sign in SystemWith the continuous success of the traceability systems developed and implemented so far, APEDA has taken up the challenge to cover all fruits and vegetables under the ambit of traceability system called as Hortinet. Hortinet is an integrated web enabled certification and Traceability system which acts as a surveillance system to ensure that fruits and vegetables exported from India adheres to the International Standards for human consumption. Initially Grape, Anar, Okra and Mango have been integrated in the single sign in system and more products will follow.

Grapenet systemA first of its kind in India, was set up for establishing consignment to farm traceability covering all stakeholders in the grapes export supply chain including farmers, exporters, State Government Horticulture/Agriculture Departments, Accredited Laboratories, Agmark, Pack houses, Phyto-sanitary Certification Departments, National Referral Laboratory (NRL), APEDA, etc., through a centralized web-based monitoring software. Grapenet is used for monitoring table grapes exported from India to the European Union. It has been running successfully since 2008.

Anarnet systemFor monitoring the quality assurance being maintained in the supply chain of Pomegranate export, the system has been developed in line with the Grapenet which has been successfully implemented.

Mango and Okra system Over the past few years, EU has been reporting an interception of pests and pesticides residues in okra, mango and some other products exported from

India. As a sequel to arrest this trend, it was decided to strengthen our export certification system. Taking a cue from the success of the GrapeNet traceability system for grape exports to the EU, APEDA introduced residue monitoring plan for Okra exports effective 7th March, 2013 which has proved successful thus far and interceptions have been controlled.

As for Mango, EU banned import from India along with four other vegetable items effective 1.5.2014. But in order to have a robust export certification mechanism,

24

India introduced a system of export of fruits and vegetables to the EU through APEDA recognized pack houses where phytosanitary certification will also be conducted. This system has been working satisfactorily.

But in order to graduate to an improved traceability mechanism, mango and okra have been identified as two immediate items which can be exported through a similar system as GrapeNet. This will ensure that the produce is safe and compliant with EU norms and traceability will be maintained to have appropriate audit trail of exports of these products. Mango and Okra system are the two traceability software already developed and are now going to be tried before fully fledged implementation in the near future. Meat.Net The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), Ministry of Commerce & Industry, Govt. of India vide notification No. 12/(2004-2009) dated 21/12/2004 and DGFT notification no-82(RE-2010)/2009-2014, dated: October 31, 2011, has made it mandatory to have the integrated abattoirs cum meat processing plants/ meat processing plants/ abattoirs registered with APEDA prior to export. In view of this the procedure as per details mentioned Dated: 6th December, 2013 Document No.: APEDA/MPD/Registration/2013for grant of registration certificate shall be adopted.

Despite the above mentioned procedures in force, there have been few cases where it has been highlighted the export undertaken by some of the exporters were more than what has been sourced by them from the authorized meat plants. Further, APEDA has also been facing difficulties such as:(a) To ascertain the arrangements between the

supplier of the carcasses and processors/integrated abattoirs because of the erratic

discontinuance of agreements between supplier and sourcing plants.

(b) Mismatch in the available capacity and the exports carried out by the plants.

(c) Agreements by plant owners with multiple merchant exporters, though having exclusive arrangement with one exporter.

(d) Forfeiting of certificates by miscreant exporters.In order to address afore mentioned difficulties, APEDA has developed a web based system “Meat.net” in consultation with various stake holders. The meat.net system was launched by Honorable Commerce Secretary on 26 November 2014. The system has following benefits:-

System will keep a tab on overall exports on the • basis of approved capacities of the meat plants.The system will ensure that raw material/meat is • sourced from APEDA registered meat plant.Validation of exports of meat from integrated • abattoirs approved by respective importing countries. QR code embedded secured system generated • health certificate to be issued by respective State Animal Husbandry Department to prevent forfeiting.System integrates stakeholders like State Animal • Husbandry Departments, Meat Plants/Exporters and Labs to have real time information/data on meat exports.System incorporates in built authorization for • supply/receiving of raw material from one source to another.

Finally the system is aiming to elevate the credibility of Indian meat producers to export quality meat in international market.

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Country Profile - UAE The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a federation of seven states formed in 1971 by the then Trucial States after independence from Britain. Since then, it has grown from a quiet backwater to one of the Middle East's most important economic centres. Although each state - Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Ajman, Fujairah, Ras al Khaimah, Sharjah and Umm al Qaiwain - maintains a large degree of independence, the UAE is governed by a Supreme Council of Rulers made up of the seven emirs, who appoint the prime minister and the cabinet.

The capital of UAE is Abu Dhabi. The religion followed is Islam and the currency is UAE dhiram (AED). According to FAOSTAT estimate 2012, the total land area is 8360 thousand hectares and the agricultural area is 397 thousand hectares.

Qty in MT, Value in Rs Lakh 2011-12 2012-13 2013-14Product Qty Value Qty Value Qty ValueBasmati Rice 7,28,823.29 3,43,279.33 2,34,679.47 1,31,119.84 1,49,041.96 1,18,922.48Wheat 1,15,659.74 15,575.65 4,98,130.69 80,540.72 6,64,860.25 1,14,900.33Buffalo Meat 40,338.25 49,420.33 43,651.70 66,599.98 42,793.54 78,467.89Non Basmati Rice 2,07,470.76 49,903.41 2,62,071.85 76,014.56 2,24,916.32 70,580.70Alcoholic Beverages 19,736.06 27,712.82 25,737.67 39,474.97 38,799.55 47,759.39Sheep/Goat Meat 3,066.53 6,368.82 7,820.38 20,374.37 10,716.91 36,093.17Other Fresh Fruits 72,892.43 16,965.23 74,207.06 27,109.24 66,804.54 35,861.79Fresh Onions 1,79,049.81 22,189.62 2,11,754.87 23,821.07 1,72,074.19 32,939.59Dairy Products 4,036.08 9,365.33 7,026.47 14,281.75 12,713.20 30,566.25Other Fresh Vegetables 1,01,659.74 21,056.70 1,08,547.91 25,777.57 1,01,938.36 28,306.84Other Cereals 32,966.27 4,490.88 80,002.39 12,528.31 1,60,037.06 24,625.60Miscellaneous Preparations

24,174.94 13,249.61 27,879.52 14,604.82 31,560.39 19,470.23

Cereal Preparations 13,839.13 9,871.13 17,069.80 14,151.00 17,778.98 17,574.83Fresh Mangoes 22,013.88 10,736.68 37,598.64 16,286.63 23,046.65 17,231.11Other Processed Fruits & Vegetables

19,945.78 12,262.94 17,144.00 12,141.30 18,846.49 15,050.64

Fresh Grapes 10,359.26 6,448.44 19,393.98 15,700.78 17,212.25 12,962.09Milled Products 17,864.40 4,139.87 26,132.13 5,919.14 33,521.92 8,534.06Maize 1,23,745.79 16,754.53 72,493.36 11,067.78 54,784.98 8,422.03Jaggery & Confectionery 1,67,056.79 52,495.46 11,685.03 5,428.33 14,187.13 7,579.30Pulses 12,959.52 8,114.47 11,282.49 7,088.73 14,940.70 7,542.50Guargum 3,294.22 4,158.60 356.93 1,756.55 2,300.65 5,156.83Groundnuts 8,207.71 4,712.88 8,007.52 6,228.57 7,797.87 4,598.83Mango Pulp 11,297.41 4,083.07 11,737.41 4,358.66 9,096.73 4,583.77Cocoa Products 751.69 427.57 1,066.72 1,528.79 456.13 2,936.52Floriculture 816.85 1,125.50 1,029.36 1,544.53 1,026.05 1,701.07Casein 302.66 337.15 343 478.04 895.47 1,353.41Natural Honey 302.66 337.15 343 478.04 895.47 1,353.41Poultry Products 633.56 600.7 2,845.04 1,055.94 2,506.97 1,210.79

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Dried & Preserved Vegetables

445.85 390.49 1,880.01 619.45 667.81 678.46

Walnuts 160.61 730.12 8.3 43.43 94.3 485.52Processed Meat 68 177.78 81.43 216.77 58.49 168.34Animal Casings 12.64 66.97 14.75 60.12 13.5 161.38Cucumber and Gherkins( Prepd. & Presvd)

666.73 171.47 499.21 172.81 409.57 156.45

Fruits & Vegetables Seeds

26.47 114.03 64.37 133.54 76.88 86.74

Albumin( Eggs & Milk) 0.15 0.79 1.19 0.91 4.59 29.23Total 19,44,645.66 7,17,835.52 18,22,587.65 6,38,707.04 18,96,875.85 7,58,051.57Source : DGCIS Annual Report

Top Five commodities exported to UAE from India are Basmati rice, wheat, buffalo meat, non basmati rice and alcoholic beverages. The below graphs represents the quantity and value of theses commodities exported from India to UAE from 2011-12 to 2013-14

Source : APEDA

International Production of UAEUAE produces international products such as Sorghum, tomatoes, chicken meat, goat meat etc. Production of important produce is mentioned in the below table.

Production in MTProduct 2011 2012 2013Sorghum 0 130000 135000Tomatoes 159631 60000 62724Chicken meat 41400 42000 43200Goat meat 38400 39200 39680Hen eggs, in shell 26100 29000 30000Onions (inc. shallots), green

15196 16000 18759

Cucumbers and gherkins

26196 5000 16000

CABBAGE LETTUCE

8447 6500 13000

Potatoes 9502 9600 10000Carrots and turnips

9470 9500 10000

Source : FAO

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Export certificates required to export to UAE

ProductsTitle of Certificate

PurposeRequesting Ministry

Dry pea, lentil, rice, seeds, fresh fruits & vegetables etc

Animal & Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) Phytosanitary Certificate

Pest and inspect free confirmation

Health Department of the local municipality, Ministry of Environment and Water

Meat & Poultry Products

Food Safety Inspection Service (FSIS) Export Health Certificate

Product produce under hygienic condition

Health Department

Meat & Poultry Products

HalalSlaughterCertificate

Product produce in accordance with Sharia Law

Health Department

All ProductsCountry of Origin Certificate

Country of Origin Confirmation

Customs Authority

All ProductsHealth Certificate

Health Certificate

Health Department

Source : http://agritrade.iift.ac.in/html/Training/Market%20study/UAE_Final_Report.pdf

Customs Procedures for Agricultural Goods to export to UAEA precondition for the clearance of an import of any agricultural food product into Dubai (the primary port which will be used for export into UAE) is the Import Certificate from the Dubai Municipality. Similar Food and Control and Environment Laboratories provide this function in each Emirate. Also, for any food product that is to enter the UAE there must be a license granted to the consignee to trade in foodstuffs. Imports of agricultural products listed below must be approved by the Food Control Section of the Public Health Department of the Dubai Municipality.

Cereal and wheat or rye flour• Rice and broken rice• Products processed from cereals• Cereal-based compound feeding stuffs• Beef and veal• Pig meat• Poultry meat• Eggs• Milk and milk products• Products processed from fruits and vegetables• Olive oil• White and raw sugar without further processing• Syrups and other sugar products • Wine•

Source : DGCIS Annual Export

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UAE StandardsLabeling regulations: Gulf Standard GSO 9/2007 is the current GCC adopted labeling standard. While the UAE has accepted English - only labels in the past, bi-lingual labels are now required. Arabic stickers and labels should be legible and show, at least, the following information:

Product description1. Ingredients2. Country of origin; and3. Net weight4.

Packaging and Container Regulations: GS 839/1999, adopted as UAE Standard #839/2000, addresses “General Requirements for Food Packages – Part I. The standard stresses the need to use suitable materials that protect the integrity of the food, its wholesomeness and characteristics. GSO 1683/2008 Food Packages Part II was issued to address general requirements for plastic packaging

Food Additives Regulations:UAE Standard 23/2000 (GS 23/1998): Regulates • the use of food coloring additives.UAE Standard 19/2000UAE Standard 356/1995 (GS • 356/94): Regulates the use of food preservatives.UAE Standard 357/1995 (GS 357/94): Regulates • the use of antioxidants.UAE Standard 381/1995 (GS 381/94): Regulates • the use of emulsifiers, stabilizers and thickeners.UAE Standard 707/1997 (GS 707/9 Regulates the • use of flavors.UAE Standard 995/2000 (GSO 995/1999) • Sweeteners permitted for use in food products

Pesticides and Other Contaminants: UAE Standard 382/95 (GS 382/94) Part I establishes limits of pesticide residues in agricultural and food products. UAE Standard 383/95 (GS 383/94) Part II discusses the same concern. UAE.S/GSO 02/2007 addresses the maximum residue limits for veterinary

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Packing list• Country of Origin Certificate•

Other Specific Standards: The UAE adopts several GSO standards that regulate “baby food based on milk, (#254/1995)” and many other related matters such as methods of testing baby foods, methods of determining minerals and vitamins in infant and baby foods as well as determining the levels of folic acid and butane. There are no special standards for specialty food products, diet, or health foods.

UAE.S/GSO CAC GL 10:2010 Standard was issued by the GCC countries to provide an “Advisory lists of nutrient compounds for use in foods or special dietary uses intended for infants and young children”. Inspection officials routinely check for salmonella in poultry products. If salmonella is detected in more than 20 percent of tested samples, the shipment will be rejected. Imports of alcoholic beverages are strictly controlled. Only a few local companies are licensed to import and sell alcoholic beverages. These products are exempt from local labeling requirements. The import of non - alcoholic beverages is permitted, but these products cannot contain more than 0.05 percent of alcohol by volume.

The Ministry of Environment & Water in UAE is the government body responsible for regulating the importation of live animals and plants. UAE officials typically respond to disease notifications in exporting countries. Consequently, import requirements for live animals & plants can and do change.

Exporters should ensure that their importers have been in touch with the Ministry of Environment & Water prior to shipping. For import and re-export of live plants, a phytosanitary certificate is required, issued from the country of origin. The plants should be either without soil or in artificial soil. For import and re-export of live animals a veterinary health certificate is required from the country of origin.

Source : USDA Foreign Agricultural Service

drugs in foods. The UAE and GSO have also issued several standards addressing acceptable limits of aflatoxin and other toxics, radiation and irradiation in food products. In the absence of a GSO or UAE standard, the UAE recognizes the Codex Alimentarius standard governing pesticide and other contaminant residue levels. Chemical contamination is a growing concern of UAE authorities and efforts are underway to update local guidelines and improve testing procedures. Food products meeting U.S. residue standards will most likely meet future UAE standards. It is very rare that U.S. origin products are rejected due to pesticide or other contaminant residue.

The UAE Ministry of Environment and Water is responsible for registering and approving all types of agricultural chemicals whether they are locally produced or imported. A permit must be issued to any importer prior to placing orders to buy agricultural chemicals

Other Regulations and Requirements: All imported food products must be accompanied by:

An original health certificate issued by the • appropriate government agency in the United States attesting to the product’s fitness for human consumption.For meat and animal products, an original Halal • slaughter certificate issued by a UAE- approved U.S. Islamic Center is required. Attestation by either the UAE Embassy/Consulate or the Arab American Chamber of Commerce is not required. Commercial Invoice• Bill of Entry or Airway Bill•

AGRICULTURAL AND PROCESSED FOOD PRODUCTSEXPORT DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY (APEDA)

(Ministry of Commerce & Industry, Govt. of India)

Email: headq@apeda.gov.in Website: www.apeda.gov.in

LIST OF APEDA CONTACT NUMBERS : REGIONAL OFFICES

MUMBAIAgricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority4th Floor, Unit No. 3 & 4 , Banking Complex Bldg. No.II, Sector 19/A, VashiNew Mumbai-400 705Ph.No - +91- 022-27840949 27845442 /27840350Fax - +91- 022-27842273Mobile No- 9920437633

HYDERABADAgricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority8th Floor, Chandra Vihar Building, M.J.Road, Hyderabad-500001 Ph.No - +91- 040-24745940Fax - +91- 040-24745947Mobile No- 9440059647

KOLKATAAgricultural and Processed FoodProducts Export Development AuthorityMayukh Bhavan, Bidhan Nagar,Kolkata-700 091Ph.No - +91- 033-23378363Fax - +91- 11- 40669291Mobile No- 8334905777

BANGALOREAgricultural and Processed FoodProducts Export Development Authority12/1/1 , Palace Cross Road,Bangalore-560 020 Ph.No - +91- 080-23343425 /23368272Fax - +91- 080-23364560Mobile No- 9538133387

GUWAHATIAgricultural and Processed FoodProducts Export Development Authority3rd Floor G.S. Road, Opp. Old Post Office Jain Complex, Guwahati-781005 Ph.No - +91- 0361-2633390Fax - +91- 0361-2599010Mobile No- 9864028908

Chairman: Santosh Sarangi, IAS

General Manager: A S Rawat; Sunil Kumar; Tarun Bajaj; S S Nayyar

Co-ordinators: Samidha Gupta (AGM); Kamal Kant (EO)

For your valuable Suggestions, Feedback or Comment please e-mail us at apexapeda@apeda.gov.in

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