India’s organic food exports have witnessed significant fluctuations over the past five years, falling from 8.88 lakh metric tonnes worth USD 1,040.95 million in 2020-21 to 2.61 lakh MT valued at USD 494.80 million in 2023-24, before recovering slightly to 3.68 lakh MT worth USD 665.97 million in 2024-25, according to data submitted in Lok Sabha by Minister of State for Food Processing Industries Ravneet Singh.
The decline has been linked to weak global demand, geopolitical uncertainties, regulatory changes in importing countries, certification challenges and limited availability of accredited agencies, particularly in the European Union where delisting of certification bodies narrowed certification access and raised costs.
The US and EU remain the key markets, requiring mandatory certification under USDA-NOP and EU norms. To boost exports, APEDA is providing financial assistance for infrastructure, quality and market development, while also running the National Programme for Organic Production and capacity-building initiatives.
The Ministry of Food Processing Industries is supporting the sector through PMKSY, PMFME and PLI schemes to enhance processing capacity, reduce wastage and strengthen supply chains for better export returns.