In a bid to enhance agricultural trade between India and Russia, Rosselkhoznadzor, the Russian Federal Service for Veterinary and Phytosanitary Surveillance, engaged in discussions with Indian representatives from the Department for the Development of Exports of Agricultural and Processed Food Products, the Department of Plant Protection, and the Embassy of India.

The primary focus of the meeting, which took place via videoconference, was the potential export of Indian potatoes and pomegranates to the Russian market. The negotiations centred on ensuring the compliance of Indian agricultural exports with the stringent phytosanitary regulations set by the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU). Rosselkhoznadzor has previously provided the Indian side with detailed information about these quarantine measures, including written guidelines for ensuring that plant products meet the safety standards required for export into Russia.

During the discussions, Rosselkhoznadzor emphasized the importance of receiving detailed information from India about the specific growing regions, phytosanitary conditions, and the expected volume of potatoes and pomegranates intended for export. The competent Indian authorities assured their Russian counterparts that the necessary data would be provided promptly, in line with EAEU import regulations. This development marks a significant step towards diversifying the agricultural trade between the two nations, with Indian produce potentially meeting growing demand in Russia. Once the required documentation and data are received, further negotiations will proceed, paving the way for Indian potatoes and pomegranates to enter the Russian market.

These talks underscore the continued collaboration between India and Russia in expanding bilateral trade, particularly in the agricultural sector. The outcome of these discussions could not only boost India’s export footprint but also provide Russian consumers with access to high-quality Indian produce, thereby strengthening the longstanding ties between the two nations.