Govt should flag EUDR as non-tariff barrier at WTO: Parliamentary panel to govt

The government should flag the EU’s anti Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) at the World Trade Organization as it is a form of non-tariff barrie and the effects of Free Trade Agreements on the spice trade need to be reviewed, a parliamentary standing committee on commerce has recommended. In a separate report, the committee suggested the government to take proactive measures to promote the ‘Make in India’ brand for traditional Indian leather products so as to prevent their imitation or misuse by international brands as was reported in the case of Kolhapuri chappals.

It said that FTAs should be designed to protect the interests of Indian spice farmers and exporters while also providing access to new markets.

On the EUDR, it said that the regulation's compliance mechanism for Indian coffee growers is still under development and the compliance deadline to 2026 is a temporary relief which will help facilitate timely adherence, protecting market access and maintaining the rubber industry’s growth trajectory.


In a separate report, the committee suggested the government to take proactive measures to promote the ‘Make in India’ brand for traditional Indian leather products.

“This will help gain global recognition for these products, safeguard the rights of local artisans, and prevent their imitation or misuse by international brands as was reported in the case of Kolhapuri chappals,” it said.