This article is dedicated to sharing all relevant information with the Indian Farmers that they need to know about exporting organic food products.

India’s organic food sector is growing rapidly, fuelled by increasing global demand for healthy, sustainable, and environmentally friendly products. With rising awareness about the benefits of organic food, Indian farmers have a significant opportunity to tap into international markets and earn premium prices for their organic produce. However, to succeed in the global marketplace, Indian farmers need to understand the certification processes, the role of government machinery, and the licenses required to export organic food products.

Why Export Organic Food?

The global demand for organic food is booming. According to data from the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), India has become one of the largest exporters of organic food products in the world. In the year 2022-23, India’s export of organic food products stood at approximately Rs 7,300 crore (USD 950 million), reflecting a consistent growth trajectory. Countries like the European Union, the United States, Canada, and Japan are major markets for Indian organic exports, and the demand is expected to continue rising.

With government support through various schemes and policies, Indian farmers can access these lucrative export markets. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help Indian farmers understand how they can export their organic produce, the required certifications, and the government machinery that can facilitate the process.

Step-by-Step Guide for Exporting Organic Food Products

1. Understand the Certification Requirements

Before exporting organic food products, farmers must ensure that their produce is certified as organic by an accredited certifying body. India has a well-established certification framework designed to meet both domestic and international standards.

• National Programme for Organic Production (NPOP): The NPOP, managed by APEDA, is the principal framework for certifying organic products in India. This certification is mandatory for exporting organic food to countries like the European Union, United States, and Japan.
• Participatory Guarantee System (PGS-India): This is a certification system specifically designed for the domestic market but also recognized for export in some cases. PGS-India is a more affordable and community-based certification system aimed at small and marginal farmers.

Where to Get Certified:

• Farmers need to apply to an accredited certifying agency recognized by APEDA for NPOP certification.
• PGS-India certification can be obtained through various PGS groups, which can be found on the official PGS India website.

Useful Websites:

• APEDA: www.apeda.gov.in
• PGS-India: www.ncof.dacnet.nic.in

2. Comply with Organic Farming Standards

For farmers, certification is not a one-time process. They must adhere to strict organic farming practices, including the following:

• No Use of Synthetic Chemicals: Organic farming prohibits the use of synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, and genetically modified organisms (GMOs).
• Soil and Pest Management: Farmers must implement natural soil management and pest control methods.
• Record Keeping: Farmers must maintain detailed records of farming activities, inputs used, and crop production processes for inspection by certifying agencies.

3. Apply for Export Licenses

Once certified, farmers can apply for export licenses through APEDA. APEDA is responsible for promoting the export of organic products and assists exporters with the entire process, including registration, documentation, and ensuring compliance with international trade regulations.

Required Documents for Export:

• NPOP or PGS-India Certification: Certification is the key to meeting the export requirements.
• Exporter Registration with APEDA: Farmers or farmer groups need to be registered with APEDA to export organic products.

Where to Register:

• Visit the APEDA website (www.apeda.gov.in) for detailed steps on registering as an exporter.

4. Labelling and Packaging Requirements

Organic products must adhere to specific labelling and packaging guidelines to be accepted in international markets. In 2017, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) introduced the Jaivik Bharat (Organic India) certification mark. This mark serves as India’s official logo for organic products, which helps consumers easily identify certified organic items.

• Jaivik Bharat Logo: Products certified under NPOP or PGS-India can display the Jaivik Bharat logo, which ensures transparency and builds consumer trust.
• Packaging Standards: Organic products must be packaged in accordance with international standards to ensure product quality during transit.

Useful Website:

• FSSAI: www.fssai.gov.in

5. Export and Market Your Organic Products

After certification and obtaining the necessary licenses, farmers can begin exporting their organic produce. To assist exporters, APEDA provides:

• Market Linkages: APEDA connects exporters with potential buyers in international markets.
• Trade Fairs and Exhibitions: APEDA organizes events where Indian exporters can showcase their products to international buyers.

Farmers can also explore export opportunities through online platforms and international organic trade associations. By leveraging these connections, they can expand their market reach and grow their business globally.

Government Support and Schemes

The Indian government offers several programs to support organic farmers, particularly those in rural and remote areas.

1. Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY): This scheme provides financial support for organic farming, including certification and training. It focuses on enhancing the production of organic products, ensuring that farmers can meet export requirements.
2. Organic Value Chain Development for North Eastern Region (MOVCDNER): This initiative aims to enhance organic farming in the northeastern states and improve market linkages, specifically targeting the export of organic products.

Useful Website for Government Schemes:

• PKVY: www.agricoop.nic.in
• MOVCDNER: www.nabard.org

Export Networks for Indian Farmers

Several networks and associations exist in India to help farmers export their organic produce, each focusing on different crops and sectors. Some of these are:

1. ANAR (All India Pomegranate Exporters’ Association)

ANAR is a dedicated network for pomegranate exporters in India. This association plays a crucial role in supporting pomegranate farmers and exporters by:

• Promoting Export: ANAR helps Indian pomegranate growers and exporters connect with international buyers, ensuring that Indian pomegranates meet global export standards.
• Quality Control and Certification: It assists members in complying with certification requirements for exports, helping them meet the necessary standards like those set by the National Programme for Organic Production (NPOP).
• Market Linkages: ANAR helps build relationships with buyers from key markets like the European Union, the United States, and Middle East.

Where to Learn More: ANAR has a website that provides information on pomegranate export opportunities, quality control standards, and certification processes. Pomegranate exporters can join ANAR to access resources and market opportunities for organic pomegranates.

ANAR Website: www.anarindia.org

• The All India Organic Farmers Association (AIOFA)

AIOFA is one of the largest networks dedicated to promoting organic farming in India. It aims to support farmers transitioning to organic farming practices and helps them access certification under NPOP and PGS-India. AIOFA also helps farmers export organic products by providing them with necessary resources, market linkages, and industry insights.

Where to Learn More: www.aiofa.org

• India Organic (NPOP Certification)

While not a traditional “network,” India Organic refers to the certification mark for organic products certified under NPOP. Farmers or exporter groups who wish to export organic food products can join this certification program. By becoming part of the NPOP certification system, they can gain access to export markets through recognized exporters and certification bodies. Various exporters and cooperative networks operate under the NPOP umbrella to help farmers and producers meet international organic standards.

Where to Learn More: www.apeda.gov.in

• National Horticultural Board (NHB) and Horticultural Export Development

The National Horticultural Board (NHB), under the Ministry of Agriculture, offers support to farmers and cooperatives exporting fruits, vegetables, and flowers, including organic produce. NHB collaborates with various export networks to facilitate market access for exporters. Farmers can join cooperative groups or associations supported by NHB to enhance their export capabilities.

Where to Learn More: www.nhb.gov.in

• Federation of Indian Export Organisations (FIEO)

FIEO is a national network that facilitates exporters across all sectors, including organic products. FIEO offers training, trade facilitation, and export certification support to its members. Farmers and exporters can join this network to access a range of export-related services, including connecting with international buyers.

Where to Learn More: www.fieo.org

• Spices Board of India

For farmers and exporters involved in the production and export of organic spices, the Spices Board of India is an essential network. It offers a range of services, including certification for organic spices, assistance with market linkages, and promotion of Indian spices in international markets.

Where to Learn More: www.indianspices.com

• Indian Tea Association (ITA)

For organic tea exporters, the Indian Tea Association (ITA) provides support in terms of market development, certification, and trade promotion. The association helps its members meet organic standards and gain access to international markets for certified organic tea.

Where to Learn More: www.indiatea.org

How These Networks Benefit Farmers

• Market Access: These networks provide a platform for farmers to connect with potential buyers, both domestically and internationally.
• Certification Assistance: Many networks help farmers and producers with the complex certification process required for organic produce, making it easier for them to comply with national and international standards.
• Training and Education: These networks often offer training sessions, workshops, and seminars on organic farming practices, export regulations, and marketing strategies, helping farmers improve both the quality and quantity of their produce.
• Promoting Export: Networks like ANAR and others focus on enhancing the export potential of niche organic products like pomegranates, tea, and spices, ensuring that farmers can access premium markets worldwide.

Becoming part of specialized networks such as ANAR or national bodies like AIOFA, FIEO, or the Spices Board can significantly enhance the export prospects of organic farmers in India. These organizations offer a wealth of resources, including training, certification assistance, market linkages, and promotional support. By leveraging these networks, Indian farmers can increase their export opportunities, ensuring that their organic products meet international standards and are in demand across global markets.

Conclusion

The export of organic food products offers a lucrative opportunity for Indian farmers, supported by a robust government framework designed to ensure quality, traceability, and international competitiveness. By adhering to certification standards such as NPOP and PGS-India, obtaining necessary licenses, and leveraging government support, Indian farmers can tap into the growing global demand for organic products.

By following these steps, Indian farmers can ensure their organic produce meets international standards, opening doors to lucrative export markets and fostering sustainable agriculture.