India, ASEAN should boost trade in farm commodities: Rawat

NEW DELHI: India and ASEAN member states should explore opportunities to increase trade in agri-commodities, Minister of State for Agriculture Harish Rawat said today.

Rawat, during his inaugural address at the symposium on 'Indo-ASEAN Export Potential of Agriculture Products - Growth Potential and Way Forward' here, said that there are several commodities which can increase the trade potential between India and ASEAN members.

" ... member countries can be benefited if we explore the complementaries and align our agricultural productions and trade policies to encourage greater bilateral trade in agro commodities," a statement quoting Rawat said.

Several ASEAN member states enjoy excellent agro-climatic conditions suitable for production of the commodities that India imports in large quantity. Similarly, India can be an important source for many of the commodities imported by ASEAN member states, the minister said.

Planning Commission member Abhijit Sen said that a roadmap must be devised and designed to accelerate the farm trade between India and ASEAN countries.

"I hope that the leaders, policy planners and traders gathered here will deliberate on the bottle-necks, challenges and issues which are hampering trade," Sen added.

ASEAN is looking for strong economic cooperation with India for mutual benefits for the prosperity of the region, Indonesia's Vice Minister for Agriculture Rusman Heriawan said.