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M.R. Subramani

Chennai , April 16

AUSTRALIA is considering allowing import of Indian mangoes and the Government is vigorously pursuing the issue.

"Australia has been examining the proposal to allow import of our mangoes. But there has been no visible progress," official sources told Business Line.

When contacted, the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (Apeda) Chairman, Mr K.S. Money, said: "We have been holding talks with Australian officials. Even recently, we discussed the issue with the Australian Ambassador."

"Our request to allow our mangoes' import has been kept pending. On our part, we are trying to provide clarification on the issues they have raised. We have also sent the pest risk analysis to the Australian authorities," he said.

The pest risk analysis is seen as a key to export any farm product to other countries.

According to the sources, Australia is looking for a quid pro quo arrangement to allow import of Indian mangoes.

"There are two things. One, Australia wants India to allow its lamb meat into the country. Two, they want the issues relating to their apple exports to the country solved," the sources said.

Australian officials, when contacted, said there were issues regarding export of apples to India. "But it is an ongoing thing and we are solving it," they said.

Apples imports from Australia are currently facing problems due to the Plant Quarantine (Regulation of Import into India) Order 2004, effective from January 1. "Problems regarding apples import relate to packaging and waxing," trade sources said.

The quarantine order stipulates that all wood packaging be treated with methyl bromide. It also requires importers to have a certification in this regard.

Official sources said quarantine issues were similar in both countries. "Australia has a strict quarantine system. We, too, have now tightened our quarantine laws. The problem in allowing agricultural and meat imports from Australia is that they have diseases in their country which are not found here."

Mr Money said Apeda had taken up the issue of clearing Australian imports with the Union Agriculture Ministry and it was being cleared "on a case to case basis".

Apeda, in particular, is exploring new avenues for Indian farm products, especially mango, basmati rice and buffalo meat. Last year, it had organised mango promotion events in China, Hong Kong and a couple of other destinations.

Indian mangoes are seen as having tremendous potential since they are considered as the "most sweetest".

Trade officials expect the issue to be raised by India during the annual Indo-Australian Trade Ministers meet. The meet is usually held in March/April alternately in India and Australia. This year, it was to be held in Australia but due to election, it is likely to be held after May.

More Stories on : Horticulture/Fruits & Vegetables | Exports & Imports

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