FIEO chief seeks govt support for in-house testing facilities at export units

NEW DELHI: Apex exporters body FIEO on Sunday urged the government to support exporters in setting up in-house product testing facilities at factories, subject to regulatory approval, saying the move would help speed up certification and ensure timely shipments.

Federation of Indian Export Organisations (FIEO) President S C Ralhan said that allowing exporters to test products within their own premises, under an approved framework, would reduce dependence on common testing facilities and help companies meet delivery schedules in overseas markets.

"It is important for us given the number of free trade agreements (FTAs) being implemented by India," he told PTI.


He noted that sending products to common testing centres often leads to delays, particularly when a facility has to handle products from several companies.

"Delays can affect export consignments and make it difficult for businesses to meet deadlines set by international buyers," Ralhan said adding the use of shared facilities may also raise concerns over the confidentiality of product designs and manufacturing processes, as companies could be reluctant to expose sensitive products or technical details to outside facilities.

He added that testing charges at outside centres are more, which add to the product's competitiveness.

"The charges range from Rs 10-12 lakh per year," Ralhan said.

He also said that the government-approved in-house laboratories could address these concerns while ensuring that products meet the quality and safety standards required by importing countries.

Citing a global example, the President said that US companies have access to in-house testing facilities.

Ralhan, while highlighting challenges faced by domestic exporters, cited high testing charges, freight rates, rising input costs such as of steel and brass, shipping disruptions and container shortages.

Product testing is crucial for Indian exporters to ensure that goods meet the quality, safety and technical standards prescribed by importing countries.

Timely testing and certification help exporters avoid shipment delays, rejection of consignments and additional compliance costs, while improving their credibility among overseas buyers.

He further said that under the Export Promotion Mission, FIEO has proposed setting up two warehouses in the US, one for food products and the other for multiple product categories.

Cumulatively, during April-September this fiscal, exports jumped 18.51 per cent to USD 259.89 billion, and imports climbed 16.31 per cent to USD 437.53 billion. The deficit during the first half of 2026-27 widened to USD 177.64 billion as compared to USD 156.88 billion during April-September 2025-26.