India pushes for agricultural trade expansion with Israel

India has formally requested Israel to grant market access for 10 key agricultural products during a bilateral meeting between Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan and his Israeli counterpart, Avi Dichter. The list includes onion, potato, garlic, green chilies, turmeric, pineapple, mango, pomegranate, grapes, and okra seeds, according to Indian media. The country placed special emphasis on onions and green chilies and plans to submit technical details soon.

In response, Israel agreed to maintain regular coordination between both countries’ plant protection authorities to facilitate trade. India also urged Israel to fast-track approvals for the remaining products. Alongside trade discussions, the two nations signed an agreement to extend their cooperation in agriculture through a joint work plan for 2024–2026.

A key outcome was the decision to form a joint working group focused on research, climate-resilient seed development, and improving seed quality, in partnership with the Israeli agency Mashav. Israel underlined the urgency of addressing climate change and enhancing agricultural innovation, especially for wheat. Minister Chouhan noted the success of 35 Indo-Israel Centers of Excellence already active across India. Before the meeting, the Israeli delegation visited research and demonstration farms, gaining firsthand insight into the long-standing collaboration that began in 1996.

source: business-standard.com

photo: organicagroindia.com