Introduction
India’s agricultural exports have been on a steady rise, positioning the country as a major player in the global agrifood market. But exporting agricultural commodities is not just about volume — meeting strict quality standards and obtaining the right certifications is critical to access international markets, ensure buyer confidence, and prevent shipment rejections.
In this blog, you’ll learn:
- Why quality standards and certification matter in export from India
- The key regulatory bodies and export frameworks in India
- The essential certifications and standards needed for agricultural export from India
- A step‑by‑step roadmap from farm to export
- Challenges faced by agriculture exporters in India, and
- Best practices to navigate quality compliance smoothly
Let’s dive in.
Why Quality Standards & Certification Matter
When you plan to export from India, especially agricultural products, adherence to global quality benchmarks is non-negotiable. Here are the main reasons:
- Market Access & Trade Barriers
Importing countries enforce sanitary, phytosanitary, and technical regulations (SPS/TBT). Without required certifications, your export consignment may be rejected or held at customs. - Credibility & Buyer Assurance
Certifications and recognized quality marks build trust with overseas buyers, importers, and end consumers. They signal your commitment to safety, traceability, and excellence. - Premium Pricing & Differentiation
Products certified under global standards (organic, fair trade, ISO, etc.) often command higher prices in developed markets. - Reduced Risk of Disputes & Rejections
Non‑compliance leads to recalls, rejections, or penalties — costly in time, reputation, and money.
In sum: for successful export service in India to truly deliver, quality compliance is foundational.
Regulatory & Institutional Foundations in India
To structure your export operations effectively, you must understand the regulatory framework that supports agricultural exports from India.
Import‑Export Code (IEC)
This is the mandatory first step for any exporter. Issued by DGFT, without a valid IEC you cannot legally export.
APEDA (Agricultural & Processed Food Products Export Development Authority)
APEDA is the central body overseeing the export of scheduled agri & processed food items. It promotes infrastructure, market development, and ensures standards.
To export scheduled products, registration with APEDA is required.
- APEDA also administers TraceNet, an electronic traceability platform for organic exports.
- It also functions through the National Accreditation Board (NAB) to accredit organic certification bodies under NPOP (National Programme for Organic Production).
RCMC (Registration‑cum-Membership Certificate)
After APEDA registration, exporters receive an RCMC, which is needed for access to export incentives and trade benefits. As of July 2023, APEDA uses the DGFT portal for e‑RCMC issuance.
Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) & Export Procedures
APEDA publishes SOPs for exports, detailing steps for various commodities (e.g. grapes, peanuts) including residue testing, documentation, certification.
Agricultural Export Policy & Government Support
Under the scheme “Agriculture Export Promotion Scheme (AEPS)”, APEDA offers financial assistance in quality development, market development, and infrastructure.
Key Quality Standards & Certifications for Agricultural Exports
Below are the core certifications / standards that agriculture exporters in India must or should consider for smooth global trade.
AGMARK (Agricultural Marketing Standards)
- AGMARK is a certification mark from the Directorate of Marketing & Inspection, under the Ministry of Agriculture.
- It certifies that agricultural products meet prescribed quality standards (grading, purity, moisture, etc.) for some 224+ commodities.
- Benefits: It enhances domestic and export acceptability, reduces disputes, and affirms product integrity.
FSSAI (Food Safety and Standards Authority of India)
While primarily for processed or edible food items, any agricultural exports entering food or processed form often require FSSAI compliance (hygiene, labeling, traceability).
Phytosanitary Certificate
- Essential for plant products (fresh fruits, vegetables, seeds, live plants) to show they are pest- and disease-free.
- Issued by India’s National Plant Protection Organization (NPPO) following inspection under ISPM standards.
- Many importing countries rigidly enforce this, making it non-negotiable.
Organic Certification / NPOP / India Organic
- For those exporting organic produce, certification under NPOP (National Program for Organic Production) ensures standards are met.
- The “India Organic” mark is the label for organic products produced in India.
- Many importing countries (EU, US) recognize NPOP equivalence, easing exports.
FPO (Fruit Products Order) Mark
- Mandatory for processed fruit & vegetable items (juices, jams, pickles, etc.) focusing on purity, hygiene, preservatives, labels.
ISO & Voluntary / Niche Standards
- ISO 22000 (Food Safety Management), ISO 9001 (Quality Management) are globally recognized and strengthen trust.
- Sustainability & niche certifications: GlobalG.A.P, Rainforest Alliance, Fair Trade, etc., help penetrate premium markets.
Pre‑Shipment Inspection & Testing
Even with certifications, consignments often require pre-shipment inspection and lab testing.
- Third‑party inspection (residue tests, microbial tests, heavy metals) is crucial.
- Laboratories must be NABL-accredited for acceptability abroad.
- APEDA publishes a “Scheme for Inspection & Certification for Export” for certain products.
- Packaging and labeling must comply with APEDA / importing country requirements.
- For example, APEDA’s export procedures include residue control norms for grapes, peanuts, etc.
Best Practices & Tips for Smooth Certification & Compliance
- Understand the target export market early — its specific standards and permitted chemicals.
- Work with recognized certification bodies and NABL labs.
- Develop a strong traceability and documentation system.
- Educate your supply chain (farmers, packers) about compliance and audits.
- Conduct internal audits and checks before external certification.
- Regularly monitor changes in international trade regulations.
- Leverage government schemes and support from APEDA to subsidize costs.
- Use digital tools (e.g. TraceNet) to maintain transparency and records.
Conclusion
Standards and certifications are not optional — they are gateways to global agricultural markets. For any agriculture exporter aiming to export from India successfully, investing in compliance, audit readiness, quality controls, and traceability can yield long-term gains: better market access, premium pricing, and fewer rejections.
If you need assistance in setting up your export service in India, navigating certifications, or building an export strategy in agriculture, consider exploring Strivex Global as a partner to support your journey.
FAQs
Q: What certifications are mandatory for agricultural export from India?
A: It depends on the product and target market. But typically APEDA registration (with RCMC), phytosanitary certificate (for plants), AGMARK or relevant marks, FSSAI (for food items), and if organic, NPOP certification are needed.
Q: How to get an AGMARK certification for export?
A: You apply to the Directorate of Marketing & Inspection through their regional office, submit samples, follow grading norms, and comply with documentation and audits.
Q: Is FSSAI license required for exporting fruits or grains?
A: FSSAI is more relevant for processed or edible items. Fresh produce often relies more on phytosanitary, but if value additions or food processing is involved, FSSAI compliance may be needed.
Q: What is a phytosanitary certificate and how to obtain it?
A: It is a certificate that verifies plant products are pest-free. You request inspection via the NPPO, comply with phytosanitary norms, and receive certification if cleared.
Q: How long does organic certification (NPOP) take in India?
A: The certification body audits the farm, checks records for 1 year or more, and after evaluation issues certification. It depends on complexity, supply chain, and readiness.
Q: Which testing labs are accepted for export residue testing?
A: Only NABL-accredited labs are acceptable in many markets. Always check the importing country’s accepted labs list.
