Australian organic farmers and food producers are set to gain unprecedented access to one of the world’s fastest-growing food markets, following a landmark agreement between Australia and India.
The Mutual Recognition Arrangement (MRA) on organics equivalence, signed this week, ensures that both countries will now recognise each other’s organic certification systems for a defined range of products. For Australian exporters, this means that products certified under the National Standard for Organic and Biodynamic Produce can be marketed as organic in India without the need for additional certification.
A Booming Market for Organics
India’s organic food market, valued at nearly $2.9 billion in 2024, is forecast to grow by 20 percent annually, reaching an estimated $16.5 billion by 2033. With India predicted to become the world’s third-largest economy by 2028, the agreement positions Australian producers to take advantage of rising demand for healthy, sustainable, and premium-quality foods.
Eligible Australian exports under the new arrangement include:
- Unprocessed plant products (excluding seaweed, aquatic plants, and greenhouse crops)
- Processed foods made from one or more plant-based ingredients
- Organic wine
The inclusion of organic wine is especially notable, marking the first time Australian vintners will enjoy guaranteed access to India’s organic beverage sector.
Strengthening Trade and Food Safety
Alongside the MRA, the two nations signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on Food Safety, enabling collaboration on:
- Food regulation
- International food standards
- Emerging food safety issues
This partnership reinforces consumer confidence while supporting long-term trade stability.
Voices of Support
Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Julie Collins MP said the agreement represents a significant breakthrough for Australian producers.
“Our Government’s focus on nurturing relationships with partners like India has provided our farmers and producers with the best platform for continued growth. This new agreement represents a significant opportunity for Australian organic producers, who will gain increased access to the Indian organic market.”
She also highlighted the strength of the sector’s global reputation:
“India’s organic food market is expected to grow significantly, driven by an increasing interest in health benefits and rising investment in sustainable agriculture.”
Jackie Brian, CEO of Australian Organic Limited, welcomed the agreement as a milestone:
“This equivalency arrangement with India is a clear and powerful signal to our nation’s organic producers and processors that their commitment to world-class organic standards is being formally recognised on the global stage. By providing streamlined access to a key emerging market, this deal not only cuts red tape but also reinforces the value and integrity of Australian organic certification.”
Building on Strong Trade Ties
The signing of the MRA fulfils a commitment made under the India-Australia Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (ECTA) of April 2022 and builds on the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership concluded in June 2020.
Between July 2022 and June 2025, the Albanese Labor Government has delivered 231 agricultural market access achievements, including:
- Opening 29 new markets
- Protecting 81 markets from trade threats
- Restoring 17 lost markets
- Making 104 improvements to existing markets
Benefits for Farmers and Consumers
For Australian producers, this deal opens the door to millions of Indian consumers, especially in fast-growing urban centres where demand for organics is surging. For Indian consumers, it brings greater access to trusted, high-quality Australian produce — from fresh plant-based foods to premium wines.
The agreement underscores the global rise of organics, driven by health, sustainability, and food safety considerations, and strengthens Australia’s reputation as a reliable supplier of clean, premium-quality food.
