New Delhi: In a strategic move to bolster India’s export potential, Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal has called upon plantation sectors such as tea, coffee, rubber, turmeric, and spices to maximize the benefits of Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) signed by India. Speaking at a recent review meeting with Plantation Boards under the Department of Commerce, Goyal emphasized the importance of tapping into these international trade pacts to boost exports and enhance global competitiveness.
Optimizing Benefits Under Free Trade Agreements
The Commerce Ministry stated that Minister Goyal highlighted the need for the plantation sectors to take “optimum utilisation of the benefits available to India under various FTAs.”
These agreements, recently signed with countries including the UAE, Australia, and Mauritius, offer significant opportunities for expanding market access and reducing trade barriers for Indian plantation products.
Focus on Market Diversification and Quality Standards
Minister Goyal stressed expanding export opportunities through market diversification, promoting value-added products, and maintaining stringent quality standards. These steps, he noted, are crucial for improving the global footprint of India’s plantation goods and ensuring sustainable growth in export volumes.
Promoting Geographical Indication (GI) Products with National Identity
Goyal directed all Plantation Boards – including the Tea Board, Coffee Board, Rubber Board, Spices Board, and Turmeric Board – to promote their Geographical Indication (GI) products with the word ‘India’ incorporated as part of their logo. This move aims to enhance brand recognition internationally and underline the Indian origin of these high-quality products.
Encouraging Innovation Through Incubation Centers
The minister also encouraged the establishment of a common incubation centre among the plantation sectors, inspired by the Atal Innovation Mission. This centre would foster research, innovation, and startups, thereby adding value to the sector and enhancing its competitiveness in global markets.
Review Meeting Focused on Strengthening Plantation Boards
The suggestions were made during a comprehensive review meeting aimed at evaluating the performance of various Plantation Boards, including the Spices Board, Tea Board, Rubber Board, Coffee Board, and Turmeric Board. The meeting underscored the government’s commitment to supporting these sectors in tapping export potential and improving operational efficiency.
