The Indian Commerce Ministry is developing an online platform for exporters to register non-tariff barriers (NTBs) they encounter, according to a senior ministry official.
This initiative aims to bridge the current information gap, particularly for smaller export items, and facilitate the resolution of these barriers with relevant countries.
The official stated that the portal will allow traders to register their complaints about NTBs, which the ministry will then pursue. Prioritisation will be given to barriers affecting large volumes of goods.
This development comes in light of recommendations from the Global Trade Research Initiative (GTRI).
GTRI has urged India to take swift action in addressing NTBs faced by domestic exporters in key markets such as the United States, China, and Japan.
This action is deemed crucial for India to achieve its ambitious export target of USD 1 trillion for goods by 2030.
GTRI has proposed a two-pronged strategy to mitigate the impact of NTBs. This strategy involves upgrading domestic systems where Indian products face rejection due to quality issues, and implementing retaliatory measures if unreasonable standards or rules continue to impede exports from India.
GTRI Co-founder Ajay Srivastava emphasised the need for dialogue with partner countries to find reasonable solutions, particularly regarding time-consuming prior registration requirements and unreasonable domestic standards.
Indian exports, especially in the food and agriculture sectors, often face challenges due to higher pesticide levels, pest presence, and contamination concerns.
Key markets where Indian exports encounter significant barriers include the European Union, the United States, China, Japan, and South Korea. Products frequently facing NTBs include basmati rice, chillies, tea, milk, poultry, bovine meat, fish, and various chemical and industrial products.
The nature of these barriers varies by country and product, ranging from food safety concerns to technical regulations and import licensing restrictions.
The Commerce Ministry’s initiative aligns with the broader goal of addressing these complex trade challenges and fostering a more conducive environment for Indian exporters in the global market.
By creating a centralised system for reporting and addressing NTBs, the ministry aims to enhance the competitiveness of Indian exports and support the country’s economic growth objectives.
