To buy 200,000 tonnes by December but long-term deal prospects stuck on quality concerns; govt to consult labs

Codex Commission agrees on better standards on many food items exported by India, such as nuts, spices and seafood

After China removed India from the list of its oilmeal importing countries from January 1, Vietnam has laid down impossible phytosanitary regulations for Indian exporters, thereby threatening one of the largest agri-commodities export markets in India. Vietnam may suspend the import of agri-commodities from India.

Nearly two weeks after lifting the ban on rice imports from India, Russia has said that it wants to inspect Indian laboratories that test and certify the grain for safety and quality.

Indian exporters are awaiting a formal announcement next week.

India has asked Pakistan to expedite the process of filing joint applications for the registration of Geographical Indication of Basmati rice.