India reports that the European Union has included the country once again on a revised list of permitted countries for fish imports. This means India can continue this export from September onwards, when the tightened EU procedures for monitoring antibiotics in the food industry come into effect.
A campaign in thirteen Indian states aims to raise farmers' awareness of the risks of illegal and unregistered pesticides. They are encouraged to buy only registered products from authorized sellers, carefully check labels, and use the products in a safe and responsible manner.
Fish Export
This is also evident in Indian aquaculture, where food safety and responsible production play an important role in accessing the EU market. Government agencies and export organizations are working to improve compliance with European food safety regulations and the use of permitted substances in aquaculture.
Promotion
Traceability is becoming increasingly important. Farmers and food exporters are asked to verify whether pesticides are registered and their origins. For farmed fish and other aquaculture products, authorities monitor medication use, possible residues, and the food safety of the products.
EU Criteria
This aligns with a broader economic interest between India and the EU. India seeks more European investments, technology, and access to European markets. At the same time, Europe is looking for new production sites and supply chains, where Indian companies meeting European standards can play an increasingly larger role.
EU regulations are becoming increasingly important for Indian companies aiming to penetrate the European market further. This applies not only to food safety but also to other requirements placed on production and supply chains. Indian companies wishing to become suppliers to European businesses will have to take these standards into account.
Free Trade Agreement
Simultaneously, India and the EU are attempting to further expand their economic relationship. The recently agreed free trade agreement (which still needs formal ratification) forms an important basis for this. Cooperation can also extend to investments, technology, and production, with both parties seeking ways to reduce their economic dependence on China.
India is mentioned as a potential new production location for European companies. European investments can help further expand Indian production capacity. For India, this presents an opportunity to attract capital and technology and to be more closely integrated into international supply chains.
Intersections
This development does not happen automatically. India still has barriers for foreign investors, while European companies require legal certainty and better access to the Indian market. At the same time, India must continue to comply with European rules and standards for exports to Europe. This brings agricultural policy, food safety, and trade increasingly closer together.