The Commerce Ministry has started a full-scale mapping of mandatory and voluntary non-tariff measures (NTMs) that Indian exporters face in overseas markets, news agency PTI reported on November 25.
The move by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) is part of preparations for the newly approved Export Promotion Mission. It aims to create a central database that will help exporters navigate technical compliance demands, reduce trade hurdles and improve the quality of outbound shipments.
The DGFT has asked exporters, industry bodies, export promotion councils and commodity boards to share all relevant information on NTMs within seven days. The information will include certification requirements, testing procedures, inspections, audits and labelling rules imposed by destination countries.
Officials have said that failing to submit details may result in certain NTMs being omitted from the database, which could limit the support extended to specific sectors in the future.
NTMs are regulatory conditions that countries impose to protect health, safety and the environment. They can include technical rules such as safety standards, pre-shipment checks or product testing as well as non-technical policies such as quotas, import licensing norms or procurement restrictions.
While these measures are often legitimate, they can become trade barriers when they are arbitrary or exceed scientific justification.
Indian exporters routinely encounter these challenges. Compliance with overseas rules often demands redesigning products, modifying packaging or paying for mandatory laboratory testing.
For example, exporters sending agricultural produce to the European Union must undertake pesticide residue tests, which add to costs. Such requirements not only raise expenses but also introduce delays, especially when shipments face additional verification checks at the importing country’s ports.
Some markets present persistent logistical hurdles. Shipments to parts of Africa, for instance, often slow down at ports due to detailed inspection protocols. These delays increase uncertainty for exporters who must manage inventory, ensure product quality during transit and maintain delivery commitments.
By mapping NTMs comprehensively, the government intends to provide exporters with clearer guidance and reduce the friction caused by varying international standards.
The database is expected to help identify where technical support or policy interventions may be necessary, including future measures planned under the Export Promotion Mission, PTI's report said.
Source Name : Economic Times