India's food product exports make up 1.6% of world trade

New Delhi, Mar 19 (UNI) India's exports for agricultural and food products constitutes about 1.6 per cent of total global trade, the Rajya Sabha was informed today.

A study by Ministry of Food Processing Industries says even though country's export of agricultural and Food products have been on the increase, the small percentage of exports in the global trade is a cause of concern, Minister of State for Food Processing Industries Subodh Kant Sahai said in a written reply.

He said the major reasons for unsatisfactory export performance are non-availability of exportable products in adequate quality and quantity, non-tariff barriers in the world markets, inability to achieve and maintain high standards of supply as well as build a brand image for quality, safety and reliability.

The Government, he said, has already taken various initiatives by providing financial assistance to entrepreneurs to bring in modern technology and equipments so as to improve quality, cost effectiveness and exportability of their products.

He said his ministry has been providing assistance for upgrading capacity building in Human Resource Development, Research&Development and quality assurance.

The Government has been encouraging the exporters for participation in international fairs and exhibitions for better market access, market promotion and showcasing their products, he added.

As per the vision 2015 for the food processing sector adopted by the Government, India has the potential to achieve 3 per cent share in world trade of agricultural and food products by that year, Mr Sahai said.

UNI