Apeda seeks 10-20% of agri output for export

Proposed export promotion strategy urges Centre to adopt stable policy in this regard

The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (Apeda) has urged the central government to allow 10-20 per cent of annual agricultural produce to be exported.

Apeda-registered products have seen a sharp decline in export and a major reason given is frequent change in government policy, resulting in importers switching to alternative sources, for long-term supply assurance.

The country’s agricultural and processed food export was $33.4 billion in 2016-17, from a record $42.9 bn in 2013-14. Rice, pulses, wheat and sugar have all seen frequent change in government policies; sometimes, export has been banned and at other times, duties have been