India raises mango export issue with Australia

New Delhi, Jan 17 (UNI) India and Australia reiterated the need for increase in trade between the two countries to enhance economic cooperation when Australian Trade Minister Simon Crean, accompanied by a delegation, called on Minister of Agriculture, Sharad Pawar here today.

During the meeting, the Indian side raised the issue of mango export to Australia. The Australian trade Minister agreed to convey the Indian concerns to the Australian government and promised that they will address the issue in right earnest to facilitate mango export from India to Australia.

Mr Pawar referred to the issue of food security and informed the Australian delegation of the efforts being made by the Indian scientists to develop drought resistant seed variety to meet the challenge of the adverse impact of climate change affecting the agriculture in particular.

The Australian delegation voiced its concern regarding the subsidies declared by India for sugar industry. They were of the view that these were non-compliant with the WTO regime.

Officers present from the Indian side explained the background necessitating the subsidies stating that the subsidies were being extended to make payments to the sugarcane farmers and were in a way helping the international sugar prices to remain firm.

It was emphasized that these measures were within the WTO mandated regime.

Both the Ministers expressed hope that some solution will soon be resolved to settle the issue through discussion between the two governments.

UNI BBS PDT RN1932