Meeting focuses on expanding laboratory network, faster approvals and improved testing standards to help exporters meet international quality requirements
Lucknow: The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) has initiated consultations with industry stakeholders to strengthen laboratory testing infrastructure and improve the quality and competitiveness of agricultural exports from Uttar Pradesh.
The consultation meeting was held under the leadership of B.L. Meena, Chairman of the Board of Revenue and Additional Chief Executive in the Horticulture and Agro-Food Processing Department. Officials, exporters and industry representatives participated in discussions on expanding testing facilities and making export-related procedures more efficient.
The Indo-American Chamber of Commerce was invited to present industry recommendations, particularly on improving access to laboratory services and reducing delays in the testing and approval process.
APEDA Seeks Faster Laboratory Approvals
During the meeting, C.B. Singh, Deputy General Manager of APEDA, explained the proposed expansion and simplification of the laboratory network. He sought suggestions from exporters and other stakeholders on speeding up approvals and streamlining testing procedures.
B.L. Meena also invited industry representatives to recommend improvements in agricultural product testing. He emphasised the need to upgrade sampling methods, testing equipment, data management systems and compliance procedures to ensure reliable results.
Chamber Proposes Commercial Model for Testing Facilities
Mukesh Singh, Chairman of the Indo-American Chamber of Commerce, proposed adopting a commercial operating model for agricultural testing facilities. He also suggested involving chambers of commerce as operational partners in managing and strengthening the laboratory infrastructure.
He said greater industry participation could help prospective exporters establish domestic and international business connections and improve their access to export-related services.
The suggestions were considered during the meeting, and directions were issued to incorporate the recommendations into the official proceedings.
Quality Testing Key to Expanding Export Markets
Addressing the importance of laboratory infrastructure, Meena said agricultural product quality had a direct bearing on crop productivity, farmers’ earnings and food safety.
He pointed out that laboratory testing was essential for assessing the quality and safety of fertilisers, pesticides and other agricultural inputs. Reliable testing systems also help ensure that agricultural produce meets prescribed quality standards.
For exporters, compliance with international food safety requirements is particularly important. Inadequate testing and quality control can lead to regulatory alerts, shipment rejections and difficulties in accessing overseas markets.
Strengthening laboratory facilities in Uttar Pradesh is therefore expected to help exporters meet international standards, address non-tariff trade barriers and reduce the risk of consignments being rejected.
The consultation was aimed at developing practical solutions through coordination between government agencies, laboratories and industry bodies. Improved testing infrastructure, faster approvals and greater private-sector participation are expected to support the growth of agricultural exports from the state.
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