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Dated: 25.09.2025
India and Australia Sign Mutual Recognition Arrangement (MRA) for Organic Products
In a landmark development, India and Australia have signed a Mutual Recognition Arrangement (MRA) for organic products, marking a significant milestone in their bilateral trade relationship. The agreement, signed on September 24, 2025, at Vanijya Bhavan, New Delhi, is set to simplify trade processes, reduce barriers, and open new opportunities for organic farmers and exporters in both countries.
A New Chapter in India-Australia Relations
The MRA is a key outcome of the India–Australia Economic Cooperation and Trade Arrangement (ECTA) and reflects the trust and confidence both nations place in each other’s organic certification systems. This agreement is expected to strengthen the strategic partnership between India and Australia while boosting the organic trade sector.
The signing ceremony was attended by prominent officials, including Secretary Commerce Shri Sunil Barthwal, APEDA Chairman Shri Abhishek Dev, and First Assistant Secretary of DAFF, Mr. Tom Black, among others. The event also saw participation from senior officials, organic exporters, and representatives from both nations.
What Does the MRA Cover?
The Mutual Recognition Arrangement covers a wide range of organic products grown and processed in India and Australia, including:
- Unprocessed plant products (excluding seaweed, aquatic plants, and greenhouse crops).
- Processed foods made from plant-origin ingredients, including certified organic ingredients sourced from third countries, provided they meet domestic regulatory requirements and are processed in either India or Australia.
- Wine, a key export product for both nations.
The implementing agencies for the MRA are the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) in India and the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) in Australia.
Unlocking Opportunities for Organic Stakeholders
India’s organic exports to Australia reached USD 8.96 million in FY 2024-25, with a total export volume of 2,781.58 metric tonnes. Key exports included psyllium husk, coconut milk, and rice. The MRA is expected to further boost these numbers by:
- Simplifying compliance requirements.
- Ensuring certification equivalence.
- Supporting more organic products and producers.
This agreement is a win-win for both nations, creating new opportunities for farmers, exporters, and businesses in the organic sector.
A Shared Vision for Organic Excellence
Speaking at the event, Secretary Commerce Shri Sunil Barthwal highlighted the importance of India’s National Programme for Organic Production (NPOP) in maintaining rigorous standards for the organic ecosystem. He emphasized that organic products should not just carry a certification but represent a system of integrity, transparency, and quality. With organic produce commanding 30-40% higher prices, the MRA is expected to improve farmers’ livelihoods significantly.
Mr. Tom Black, First Assistant Secretary of DAFF, praised India’s fast-growing organic sector and acknowledged the role of the Indian diaspora in enhancing organic trade between the two nations. He also highlighted Australia’s leadership in organic farming, with 53 million hectares of organic farmland, and identified trade opportunities in cereals, tea, spices, beverages, and wines.
India’s Vision: Becoming the Organic Food Basket of the World
The Government of India is committed to making the country the Organic Food Basket of the World. The MRA is a major step in this direction, ensuring that Indian organic products meet global standards and reach international markets with ease.
Conclusion
The signing of the Mutual Recognition Arrangement for organic products is a testament to the growing partnership between India and Australia. By reducing trade barriers and fostering collaboration, the MRA is set to unlock new opportunities for organic stakeholders, strengthen trade ties, and support the vision of a sustainable and thriving organic ecosystem.
This agreement is not just about trade—it’s about building a future where organic farming thrives, farmers prosper, and consumers benefit from high-quality, certified organic products. Together, India and Australia are paving the way for a brighter, more sustainable future in organic trade.
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Source: Ministry of Commerce & Industry
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