Amendment in Policy Conditions for Rice Export to European Countries

New Delhi, May 31 (Commodity Control): The Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Department of Commerce, Directorate General of Foreign Trade, has issued a notification amending the policy conditions for the export of rice (Basmati and Non-Basmati) to European countries. The notification, published in the Gazette of India, brings about changes in the existing policy conditions to facilitate trade with these nations. According to the notification, the Central Government, exercising its powers conferred by Section 3 of the Foreign Trade (Development & Regulation) Act, 1992, has amended the Policy Condition at Sl. No. 55 and 57 of Schedule 2 of the ITC (HS) Export Policy, 2018, with immediate effect. The revised policy conditions will apply to the export of both Basmati and Non-Basmati rice. Under the amended policy conditions, the export of rice to European Union (EU) member states, including the United Kingdom, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland, will be permitted subject to the issuance of a Certificate of Inspection by the Export Inspection Council or Export Inspection Agency. This requirement remains unchanged. However, for export to the remaining European countries, a Certificate of Inspection by the Export Inspection Council or Export Inspection Agency will no longer be mandatory for a period of six months from the date of this notification. This change aims to streamline and facilitate trade with these countries during the specified period. The amendment aims to ease trade restrictions and encourage the export of rice to European countries. By exempting the requirement of a Certificate of Inspection for the remaining European countries, Indian exporters can take advantage of enhanced market access opportunities. This move is expected to boost the rice export industry and foster stronger economic ties with European nations. The amendment comes as part of the government's ongoing efforts to promote trade and strengthen India's position in the global market. By aligning policies with evolving trade dynamics, the government aims to create a favorable business environment for exporters and stimulate economic growth. For more information and queries related to this amendment, interested parties may contact the Directorate General of Foreign Trade at dgff@nic.in. (By Commoditiescontrol Bureau; +91-9820130172)