India asks US to permit domestic labs for fruit irradiation

India has asked the US to allow domestic labs also for irradiation of certain fruits like mangoes with a view to helping exporters cut additional trade costs, an official said.

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At present, exporters have to carry out irradiation at the US ports, which increases cost and uncertainty in case of rejection of the consignment.

The issue was raised during the 14th India-US Trade Policy Forum meeting here on January 12.

‘’We have raised the issue of fruit irradiation which they do on their coast. Let it happen here. They can allow Indian labs to do so. It will reduce trade costs in a way,’’ the official said.

According to international trade experts, several Indian products may require irradiation at the US ports before entering the US market to comply with the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) regulations and prevent the introduction of harmful pests and diseases.