Reducing procedural hurdles, ease of doing biz to enhance tea sector competitiveness: Parliament panel

New Delhi: A parliamentary panel has suggested the government to cut procedural hurdles and further improve ease of doing business to enhance the competitiveness of Indian tea and expand its presence in global markets.

A report of the department related parliamentary standing committee on commerce also suggested simplification of certification and compliance procedures to help exporters access new and emerging markets.

Awareness and outreach programmes may be strengthened to ensure that exporters are well informed about available incentives, quality standards and market requirements, it said.


"The Committee is of the view that reducing procedural hurdles and improving ease of doing business will contribute significantly to enhancing the competitiveness of Indian tea and expanding its presence in global markets," the report added.

It raised concerns over the trade asymmetry under the Indo-Nepal Trade Treaty, wherein Nepal enjoys duty-free access to the Indian market while domestic tea exports continue to face high tariff barriers of 40 per cent in Nepal.

"The Committee, therefore, reiterates its recommendation that the Government take up the issue of reciprocity in market access with the Government of Nepal and undertake a comprehensive review of the relevant trade provisions relating to tea and provide Level Playing Field for Indian traders," it added.

On the rubber sector, it suggested a comprehensive review of import duty concessions available under various Free Trade Agreements so as to maintain a fair and competitive environment for domestic producers.