EU seeks easier quality control certification under trade deal

In the 11th round of FTA talks last month, five out of 23 chapters or policy areas were concluded

- MUKESH JAGOTA

THE EUROPEAN UNION (EU) has sought easier certification process under India's Quality Control Orders (QCOs) during negotiations on a free trade agreement (FTA).

The issue of QCOs was discussed in depth for the first time during the 11th round of negotiations here last month. While no text-based discussions were held, the Indian side clarified on some procedural aspects and some areas where improvement could be considered, officials said. To ease the process of certification under QCOs, online application and accreditation of EU Conformity Assessment Bodies (CABs) could be considered by India.