The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) plays a pivotal role in enhancing India’s agricultural exports by ensuring that products meet stringent international quality and safety standards. Established under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India, APEDA’s mandate includes the promotion and development of export-oriented production of various agricultural commodities.

APEDA’s Quality Standards and Certification Programs

To facilitate export readiness, APEDA has implemented several quality standards and certification programs:

1. National Programme for Organic Production (NPOP): Launched in 2000, NPOP sets standards for organic production and accredits certification bodies. The program has gained international recognition, with its standards acknowledged by the European Commission and Switzerland for unprocessed plant products, ensuring equivalence with their own regulations.
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2. Quality and Food Safety Management Systems: APEDA assists exporters in implementing and certifying quality and food safety management systems. This includes adherence to international standards such as ISO 22000, which outlines requirements for food safety management systems, ensuring safe food supply chains worldwide.
3. Accreditation of Laboratories: APEDA accredits laboratories to ensure they meet international standards for food safety testing. For instance, Auriga Research is recognized by APEDA to conduct high-quality testing and certification for various food products, ensuring they meet global safety and quality standards.
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Adherence to Global Food Safety Norms

APEDA’s initiatives align with global food safety norms to ensure Indian agricultural products are accepted worldwide:

• Harmonization with International Standards: APEDA works towards harmonizing Indian food standards with international benchmarks, facilitating smoother export processes. This includes aligning with the Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI), which aims for continuous improvement in food safety management systems to ensure confidence in the delivery of safe food to consumers worldwide.
• Traceability Systems: Implementing traceability ensures that products can be tracked throughout the supply chain, a critical requirement in international markets. APEDA’s guidelines emphasize the importance of traceability in maintaining food safety and quality standards.

Impact on India’s Agricultural Exports

APEDA’s stringent quality assurance measures have significantly boosted India’s agricultural exports:

• Export Growth: India’s agricultural exports have seen substantial growth, with APEDA reporting a significant increase in the export of various commodities over the years.
• Market Expansion: Compliance with international standards has opened new markets for Indian products, enhancing the country’s reputation as a reliable exporter of quality agricultural goods.

Altus Exports: Partnering with Indian Manufacturers for Global Success

Altus Exports is committed to assisting Indian manufacturers in navigating the complexities of international trade. By partnering with us, manufacturers can leverage our expertise in export procedures, compliance with global standards, and market expansion strategies.

How Altus Exports Can Assist:

1. Regulatory Compliance: We ensure that your products meet all necessary international quality and safety standards, facilitating smooth entry into global markets.
2. Market Access: Our extensive network and market insights help in identifying and penetrating new markets for your products.
3. Logistical Support: From documentation to shipping, we manage the entire export process, ensuring timely and efficient delivery of your products.

Partnering with Altus Exports provides Indian manufacturers with a competitive edge in the global marketplace. To explore collaboration opportunities, visit our partnership page: