India asks US to permit domestic labs for fruit irradiation to cut trade cost
Samir J Shah
45 years Expertise in Shipping and Logistics I Advisor in Customs, International Business, Freight Forwarding and Logistics I Concerned and Sensitive Educator I TEDx Speaker I Author I Policy Maker
In a bid to streamline and enhance our export processes, India has urged the US to allow domestic labs for the irradiation of specific fruits, such as mangoes. Currently, the irradiation process takes place at US ports, escalating costs and introducing uncertainties in case of consignment rejection.
During the recent 14th India-US Trade Policy Forum meeting, we emphasized the potential benefits of conducting irradiation in India. Allowing Indian labs to handle this process could significantly reduce trade costs. This move aligns with the modern facilities available in India, meeting the stringent import requirements set by the US.
Why does this matter for the shipping and logistics industry?
? Cost Efficiency: Shifting the irradiation process to Indian labs ensures cost efficiency, benefitting exporters and creating a more competitive edge in the global market.
? Risk Mitigation: Conducting irradiation in India minimizes the uncertainty associated with rejection at US ports, providing a more secure and predictable export environment.
Future Outlook:
This proposal opens avenues for collaboration and efficiency in international trade. If implemented, we can anticipate:
Streamlined Processes: Enhanced collaboration between Indian and US authorities can lead to streamlined processes, benefiting the entire supply chain.
Global Recognition: Demonstrating our commitment to quality and compliance can boost India's global recognition in agricultural exports.
As a seasoned professional in shipping and logistics, I foresee this development as a positive step towards optimizing our export practices, fostering growth, and ensuring the smooth movement of goods across borders. Let's navigate these trade frontiers with agility and innovation!