The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), under the Ministry of Commerce & Industry, has issued a significant notification regarding the export policy of meat and meat products, specifically those derived from bovine animals. This move comes as part of the government’s broader efforts to streamline the export process while ensuring sectoral accountability and development.
Overview of the Amendment
In exercise of powers conferred under Section 3, read with Section 5 of the Foreign Trade (Development & Regulation) Act, 1992, and in accordance with the Foreign Trade Policy (FTP) 2023 (Para 1.02 and 2.01), the Central Government has amended the export conditions related to certain meat products. A new Export Policy Condition No. 9 has been inserted in Chapter-2, Schedule-II (Export Policy) of the ITC (HS) 2022 classification.
Key Requirement: Submission of Proof of Remittance to MEDF
As per the newly introduced Export Policy Condition 9, the export of chilled and frozen meat is now permitted only upon submission of proof of remittance to the Meat Export Development Fund (MEDF). This fund is operated by the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), which functions under the Ministry of Commerce & Industry.
This condition specifically applies to the following ITC (HS) codes:
- 0201 (Meat of Bovine Animals, Fresh and Chilled)
- 02013000 – Boneless
- 0202 (Meat of Bovine Animals, Frozen)
- 02023000 – Boneless
- 0206 (Edible Offal of Bovine Animals, Fresh, Chilled, or Frozen)
- 02061000 – Fresh or chilled offal
- 02062100 – Frozen tongues
- 02062200 – Frozen livers
- 02062900 – Other frozen offal
Objective and Impact
The incorporation of this condition is aimed at improving traceability, compliance, and quality standards in the meat export sector. The MEDF plays a vital role in promoting sustainable meat production, enhancing export infrastructure, and supporting marketing efforts globally. Ensuring contributions to this fund will help:
- Strengthen market intelligence and export promotion
- Enhance hygienic and quality standards in meat processing units
- Support capacity-building initiatives for exporters
Conclusion
This amendment marks a crucial step towards the institutional strengthening of India’s meat export framework. Exporters dealing in chilled or frozen meat of bovine origin are advised to ensure strict compliance with the newly introduced Export Policy Condition 9. Non-compliance may lead to delays or rejection of export consignments at the border.
This notification reflects the Government of India’s ongoing commitment to responsible trade practices, food safety, and sustainable growth of the agricultural export sector.