Threat of a ban on Indian seafood imports into the Russian Federation was avoided with the Indian authorities reaching an agreement with the Federation, Marine Products Export Development Authority (MPEDA) sources said.
A new administrative arrangement regarding the terms of shipping of fish and seafood products from India to the Russian Federation was signed between the Export Inspection council (EIC) and the Federal Service of Veterinary & Phytosanitary Surveillance of the Russian Federation (FSVPS) on July 29.
Seafood exports to Russia during the last fiscal stands at 9,400 tonne, valued at Rs 115 crore. Total exports in 2007-08 were 4,500 tonne, valued at Rs 35 crore.
MPEDA sources said the main goal of these arrangements is to ensure high level of food safety and quality control for shipment of seafood products from India. The agreement defines the terms of export for more than 45 Indian fish processing establishments.
It also details on the modalities of cooperation in the fields of quarantine and inspections, during the export and import of products.
The document underlines the increased authority and responsibility of the EIC in administering India?s fish processing establishments and their recommendation and approvals for export to Russia.
The two sides also reached an understanding on the need to create a bilateral working group on sea product safety.
A mechanism has also been detailed to resolve effectively issues arising from seafood trade.