MRA between India and Australia

The Mutual Recognition Arrangement (MRA) between India and Australia refers to the agreement signed on 24 September 2025 to mutually recognize each other’s organic certification systems under the India–Australia Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (ECTA).​

Key Details of the MRA
Date and Venue: Signed at Vanijya Bhavan, New Delhi, on 24 September 2025.​

Implementing Agencies:

India: Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA).

Australia: Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF).​

Scope of the Arrangement
The MRA applies to organic products produced and processed in both countries, including:

Unprocessed plant products (excluding seaweed, aquatic plants, and greenhouse crops).

Processed plant-based foods (including those with third-country certified ingredients processed in either India or Australia).

Organic wine.​

Purpose and Benefits
Certification Equivalence: Each country now recognizes the other’s organic certification systems, removing the need for double inspection or certification.​

Trade Growth: Expected to significantly boost India’s organic exports, which were valued at USD 8.96 million in FY 2024–25, mainly psyllium husk, coconut milk, and rice.​

Farmer Benefits: Organic products typically command 30–40% higher prices, improving rural incomes.​

Market Access: Allows Australian organic producers (including wine and cereals) easier access to India’s rapidly growing USD 2.9 billion organic market, projected to reach USD 16.5 billion by 2033.​

Broader Significance
This MRA strengthens bilateral cooperation in agri-trade, reinforces food safety collaboration through a related Memorandum of Understanding on Food Safety, and advances both nations’ commitment to sustainable and transparent organic production under their Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.