Indianyes Bank Report

Indian
Organic
Sector
Vision 2025
A White Paper
Identifying India Organic Food Export Priorities

Setting the foundation for Vision 2025
TITLE Indian Organic Sector: Vision 2025
YEAR January, 2016
AUTHORS YES BANK, Ingenus Strategy and Creative Research
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This study has been done basis a pre decided scope of work between YES BANK, APEDA, AIOI and Ingenus with
the objective of achieving specified outcome and does not cover all aspects/all opportunities pertaining to the
cold chain sector in India.
YES BANK Ltd.

Nitin Puri National Operating Center (NOC)
Senior President 7th Floor, Building No-8 B
Food and Agribusiness Strategic Advisory and Cyber City , DLF Phase II
Research (FASAR) Gurgaon 122002
CONTACTS
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MESSAGE
Organic agriculture, has always been India's inherent advantage and strength. The shift in the global
consumption patterns, health awareness among the consumers and the increasing significance of
sustainability is now putting organic products to the forefront both internationally as well as in the domestic
market.
Organic farming is based on production standards which are environmentally supportive and are socially,
economically and ecologically sustainable. It is believed to play a pertinent role in safeguarding biodiversity,
improving the soil health, and inclusive & sustainable development of the farming community.
Government is now focused on sustainable interventions and is promoting organic farming in a big way
through its different schemes and programs. We now require to formulate a robust integrated policy to
benefit all the stakeholders and primarily the farmers who need to be integrated with the organic value
chain.
APEDA in association with AIOI, YES BANK and Ingenus have undertaken an extensive study which shall be a
foundation to India's Vision for Organic Sector-2025. The contents of this report have put forth an extensive
industry perspective which will definitely guide our way to the global organic market and help us formulate
strategies to explore the opportunities. This shall be a stepping stone to position the Indian Organic brand in
the global organic market.
I hope that this white paper proves to be functionally handy and shapes the way forward to more useful
interventions by policy makers and Indian organic industry.
Mr. Krishan Kumar

Chairman - APEDA
FOREWORD
The Organic food sector in India truly represents our traditional and competitive strength in enabling sustainable
agriculture. Before the advent of the green revolution era, traditional Indian farmers, across 127 different agro-
climatic zones, followed agricultural practices enabling organic farming which supported various crops endowed
with nutrition, taste and quality.
Currently, the Indian organic food market is largely driven by exports to developed nations with exports having
doubled from INR 1,155 Crores in 2012-13 to INR 2,100 Crores in 2014-15; however the vast domestic organic
market remains largely untapped. It is critical to strengthen the organic agriculture supply-chain as well as
promote awareness and consumption in the country. Additionally, a market-driven approach, led by the industry
and supported by policy makers, with backward linkages to ensure appropriate interventions at the farm end, will
enable a quantum shift in India's organic sector.
To address key challenges of growth of chemical residues in the food chain and exploitation of agro-chemicals, it is
critical for the organic fraternity to focus on a holistic approach which includes reviving soils with organic content,
capacity building of farmers, supply of organic inputs, bulletproof certification standards, consumer marketing
initiatives and most importantly integrating farmers into market-led value chains, amongst others. Additionally,
to leverage the full potential of the sector and achieve sustainable farming and commercial prosperity for the
Indian farmer, fast-tracking regulatory, procedural, infrastructure, promotional, skilling and product specific
interventions will be highly significant.
On the occasion of National Conference on Sustainable Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, we are pleased to release
the YES BANK-Ingenus-APEDA-AIOI Knowledge Report 'India Organic Sector: Vision 2025' which provides
strategic recommendations to promote integrated development in the organic sector.
I would like to acknowledge the support of APEDA, AIOI and Department of Agriculture, Cooperation and Farmers
Welfare for their valuable guidance towards drafting this report. I strongly believe that together, we can achieve
the goal of over USD 7 billion exports by 2025 and put India firmly on the global organic map.
Thank you.
Sincerely,
Rana Kapoor
Managing Director and CEO
Chairman
Message from the Industry
It is a historic moment for all of us in the Organic movement. The industry against heavy odds has been at the
forefront of organic movement promoting organic farming and processing as well as promoting organic food
and fiber in the domestic and international markets. Today India is a leader Internationally in a few segments
like Organic Tea, Basmati Rice and Cotton. The market share in the global organic market is only 0.6%. But
given the huge soil & agro-climatic diversity, large areas with low fertilizers and pesticides usage the
potential for organic farming and industry is immense. This can transform lives of millions of farmers in
rainfed, tribal and other low input agricultural areas.
By 2025 the Indian Organic food business is likely to be a Rs 75,000 crores, a manyfold growth from the
current level. Both export & domestic markets are crucial for this to happen. This will mean an additional
12,500 Crore income per annum for farmers, impacting about 5 million farming families on about 6 million
ha. Another one million jobs can get created in rural and semi urban areas. India can also earn valuable
foreign exchange of Rs 50,000 crores per annum. With proper policy support the figures could be much larger.
Without demand for organic products from customers, farmers will not be encouraged to take up organic
farming. Markets therefore will be the incentive to grow more organic food & fiber.
This study provides a road map for the industry and also the policy framework required to realize this
potential. The study has been done meticulously for the past four months with inputs from various
stakeholders across the country and analyzing the trends both in the domestic and export markets.
We would like to thank Shri Santosh Sarangi, Joint secretary, Ministry of Commerce and former APEDA
chairman, Shri Krishan Kumar, Chairman APEDA and other APEDA officials for their encouragement and
support in making this happen. I would also like to thank my colleagues in the industry for their active
support and participation for the successful completion of the study. Thanks to Nitin Puri, Gopinath Koneti,
their colleagues at YES BANK and Kishore Rao of Ingenus Strategy for their dedication and commitment in
bringing out a high quality and actionable report.
Mr. Rajashekar Reddy Seelam

President - AIOI
Contents
Introduction.............................................................................................................01
Acknowledgements ...................................................................................................03
Abbreviations...........................................................................................................04
Part 1: Scenario Analysis............................................................................................05
1. Background, Objectives & Methodology .........................................................06
2. Organic Companies Views and Perceptions on Top Issues: Survey Highlights .........08
3. The Global Market Opportunity for Organic Foods .............................................10
4. A snapshot of individual global top markets ....................................................14
5. Snapshot of Indian Organic Sector ...............................................................19
6. Supply Chain issues in Organic Sector ............................................................21
7. Human resources issues in Organic Sector ......................................................22
Part 2: Recommendations ..........................................................................................27
1. Identification of India Stars or Focus Products (Top 10 + 5)................................28
2. Identification of Focus Markets ....................................................................30
3. Promotion & Branding India Organic .............................................................31
4. Standards-Regulations-Certifications............................................................33
5. Policy......................................................................................................34
6. Support...................................................................................................35
7. Infrastructure & Supply chain ......................................................................36
8. Skilling & HR ............................................................................................36
9. Product Specific .......................................................................................37
Part 3: Vision 2025....................................................................................................39
1. Way Forward.............................................................................................40
2. Farmer Impact ..........................................................................................43
3. Domestic Market .......................................................................................44
4. Game Changers for India Organic .................................................................45
5. Other Elements required for Organic Vision 2025.............................................46
6. Conclusion ...............................................................................................47
Annexures .............................................................................................................48
01
Indian Organic Sector: Vision 2025

Introduction
The Hon. Prime Minister of India, Shri. Narendra Modi has been constantly stressing on
according due priority to the organic food sector, both from the farm sustainability
perspective as well as from the point of view of addressing consumer demand. There is an
urgent need for the nation to work towards ways and means to promote organic farming in
this direction. He identified Organic Farming as a National Priority and emphasized the
need to grow this sector in his maiden speech to the Parliament.
The genesis of this report is a long felt need and outcome of a special meeting convened by
Mr. Santosh Sarangi, the then chairman of APEDA with representatives of the Industry -
Association of Indian Organic Industry (AIOI) to find aggressive ways of growing the Indian
Organic sector. After much brainstorming and deliberations it was concluded that if India
has to make headway in the Organic sector, it needs to have a proper direction, focus and
plan to take advantage of the reasonably sound foundations in place. AIOI represents the
Indian Organic Industry and is focused on building Indian Organic sector.
Mr. Krishan Kumar, who took over as Chairman APEDA, initiated this project and has been
instrumental in flagging off, setting the actual objectives and finalizing the mandate. He
has been guiding, motivating the team continuously and setting new demanding standards
of excellence and vision. AIOI was tasked with using the services of professional
consultants for the complex task of making a road map for the sector for the next decade,
2015 to 2025.
YES BANK & Ingenus Strategy and Creative Research have been jointly mandated for coming
up with recommendations on strategy for boosting certified organic exports from India and
charting a roadmap of the sector.
YES BANK, India's fifth largest private sector bank, has created 'Food and Agribusiness
Strategic Advisory and Research' (FASAR) Group to actualize its focus and commitment for
the holistic development of the Food and Agribusiness sector.
YES BANK has created a differentiated approach in the food and agri space in the country
through various significant knowledge initiatives across sectors like dairy, horticulture,
cold chain, food processing, high value agriculture, commodities, amongst others and
supplemented the Government's efforts in promoting Co-operative Federalism through
02
multiple State reports, specific food maps etc. Further, to supplement various domestic initiatives, YES
BANK has successfully entered into several strategic international alliances with important nodal
agencies, like AUSTRADE, NAFTC, amongst others.
Mr. Kishore Rao & Raj Supe of Ingenus Strategy are niche Global & Indian Agri-Business Strategy
Specialists and intricately involved with Organic business strategy for over a decade. They have had the
privilege of conducting India's first nationwide study on organic foods The Market For Organic Foods In
India Consumer Perceptions & Potential for ICCOA-FIBL- SOLIDARIDAD as well as many other seminal
works in the sector, including being appointed FAO's India marketing consultant to study the acceptance
of certification/labels/PGS concept from a market perspective and advice the way forward. They have
pioneered many national studies in Agriculture and worked on global projects with a number of leading
Indian and Multinational firms.
This report is an outcome of deep study of available knowledge as well as detailed consultations with a
wide body of stakeholders across the country as well as a few international ones. Leading Organic
companies/Exporters across product categories, certifying bodies, regulators, organic experts, NGO's,
Government bodies, farmers and others stakeholders participating in the supply chain of organic food
were consulted. The study owes much to their frank opinion and diverse pieces of advice.
We are specially thankful to Mr. Rajashekar Reddy Seelam, Sresta Natural Bioproducts & Chairman AIOI,
Mr. Ajay Katyal, President- Amira Foods, Mr. Shakti Singh, Ambootia Tea, Mr. Sameer Mehra, Suminter
India and Mr. Tapan Ray, LT Foods, all of them Organic veterans and members of AIOI for their contribution
to this study. Many of the ideas and perspectives given have origin to their deep understanding of the
Industry and insights into the issues involved. But for their initiative and individual financial
sponsorship, this study would not have been possible. While APEDA committed financial support, it is to
be noted that the industry came forward and invested in the study upfront.
Today India is on the cusp of change, it is one of the few countries with a positive growth rate in the world
and has an young and increasingly growing population with purchasing power. Many things are rapidly
changing and Agriculture revival is inevitable. It can bring in additional prosperity to the Nation and
organic agriculture can be a strong stream heading this revival.
The Organic agriculture stream is a sunrise sector that will show the direction to where Indian Agriculture
should head with its strong sustainability and market linkages along with traceability and premium
prices. Reviving soil health, making agriculture holistic, involving skill upgradation and emphasising on
allied activities like dairy & poultry as a part of farm family activities all point it to a great future.
This report aims at providing policy makers a strategic focus to the Indian Organic sector to set correct
goals and point out the hurdles and bottlenecks that impede progress. India can reach Rs. 75,000 crores
mark by 2025 from the current 2700 crores in the near future if there is a strategic impetus given correct
planning is actioned and a right environment is created.
Removing obstacles, providing a right environment and setting correct targets and goals is the first step
to success, and this study provides insights and inputs for this. We are optimistic that the Organic
Industry, APEDA and the GOI will individually and collectively find much wisdom here for preparing India's
Organic Sector Road Map for 2025.
VSK Kishore Rao Gopinath Koneti Nitin Puri

Partner- Ingenus Strategy & Group Executive Vice President Senior President
Creative Research Food and Agribusiness Research Food and Agribusiness Research
Management - YES BANK Management - YES BANK
03
Acknowledgements
The authors would like to acknowledge the following members for their contribution: (in no particular
order)
Ministry of Commerce - Mr. Santosh Sarangi, Jt. Secretary, Ministry of Commerce
APEDA- Mr. Krishan Kumar, Chairman, Dr. Tarun Bajaj, Dr. A.K. Yadav, Advisor, Dr. P.V.S.M. Gouri,

Dr. Saswati Bose, Mrs. Reeba Abraham, Dr Sudhanshu, Dr. C.B Singh, Mr. T. Sudhakar and Mr. Waghmare
Ministry of Agriculture - Shri Siraj Hussain, Secretary, Dept of Agriculture, Cooperation & Farmers'
Welfare and Mrs. Rani Kumudini, Joint Secretary, Dept of Agriculture, Cooperation & Farmers' Welfare
AIOI- Mr. Rajashekar Reddy Seelam, MD, Sresta Natural Bioproducts, Mr. Ajay Katyal, Amira Foods, Mr.
Shakti Singh, Ambootia Tea, Mr. Sameer Mehra, Suminter India and Mr. Tapan Ray, LT Foods
Thailand - Mr. Sam (Peerachote Charanwong), TOTA President and MD, Merito Products, Mr. Theerasit
Amornsaensuk from Green Net and other TOTA members and representatives from - Merit Food Products
Co., Ltd., Green Net SE Co., Ltd., TPI Polene Bio Organic Co., Ltd., Top Organic Products and Supplies
Co., Ltd., and Siam Organic Food Products Co., Ltd
ICCOA & Biofach India - Mr. Manoj Menon, Exec.Director , Dr. Tej Partap Singh, Former Vice Chancellor,
Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agriculture Sciences and Technology
PJTSAU, Department of Agribusiness Management, Hyderabad - Prof & Head Dr. Seema Nath
IIM, Kashipur - Mr. Gautam Sinha, Director and Mr. Sanjeev Jha, Learning Resource Center
YES BANK team - Abhijeet Banerjee, Amit Saluja, Anshul Sah, Hemendra Tiwari, Kaushik Basu, Kumar
Gaurav, Manish Sachdeva, Neerja Rawat, Pradeep Shrivastava, Prasad and Shikha Bhatt
Ingenus Strategy team - Mr. Raj Supe, Ashish Bhandarwar, Harpreet Thukral, Kirti Reddy, Atifa
Tamkeen, Varsha Surve
04
Abbreviations
ACT- Organic Agriculture Certification Thailand MIDH- Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture
AGMARK- a certification mark employed on MOFPI Ministry of Food Processing Industries
agricultural products in India
AIOI- Association of Indian Organic Industry MRLs- Maximum Residue Limits
APEDA Agriculture & Processed Foods Export NCOF National Centre For Organic Farming
Development Authority
APMC- Agricultural Produce Market Committee NECC- National Egg Coordination Committee
CAGR- Compound Annual Growth Rate NFSM- National Food Security Mission
CB- Certification Body NGO Non-Government Organisation
CIB & RC- Central Insecticides Board and NHM-National Horticulture Mission
Registration Committee
CSR- Corporate social responsibility NOP- National Organic Program
DGFT- Directorate General of Foreign Trade NPK- Chemical elements Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P), and
Potassium (K)
DRDO- Defence Research and NPOF- National Project on Organic Farming
Development Organization
F&V - Fruits and Vegetables NPOP National Programme on Organic Production
FAO Food & Agriculture Organisation OTA- Organic Trade Association, USA
FIBL- Forschungsinstitut OVRCT- Organic Value Chain Round Table
fr biologischen Landbau- Research Institute
of Organic Agriculture
FMCG Fast Moving Consumer Goods PGS Participatory Guarantee System
FPC- Farmers Producers Companies PKVY- Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana
FTDR- Foreign Trade Development Regulations QSR- Quick Service Restaurant
FTL- Food Testing Laboratories RKVY- Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojna
GAIN- Global Agriculture Information Network TC- Transaction Certificate
GMO- Genetically Modified Organisms TNAU- Tamil Nadu Agricultural University
GoI- Govt of India TOTA- Thailand Organic Trader Association
HDPE- High-density polyethylene USDA- U.S. Department of Agriculture
HFCS- High-Fructose Corn Syrup USOCA- Uttarakhand State Organic Certification Agency
ICAR- Indian Council of Agricultural Research VAT- Value-Added Tax
ICCOA International Competence Centre For WHO- World Health Organization
Organic Agriculture
ICDs- Inland Container Depots YBL- YES BANK Limited
ICS- Internal Control Systems
IFOAM- International Federation of Organic Agriculture Movements
IGNOU- Indira Gandhi National Open University
IICT- Indian Institute of Chemical Technology
IPM- Integrated Pest Management
Part 1
Scenario Analysis
06
Scenario Analysis
1. Background, Objectives & Methodology
01. Indias organic food sector is estimated at Rs. 2700 crores (approximately
USD 415 million) which stands at lesser than even one percent of the
global organic food market estimated at about USD 90 Billion in 2015.
India Organic Food Sector Overview

(In Rs Crore )
Domestic-
Irregular
sector, 300 cr
11%
Domestic Food Exports,

Certified- 2100 cr
Organised 79%
sector, 250 cr
10%
Currently the Indian Organic food sector is primarily driven by Exports

comprising about Rs. 2,100 crores1 and an organized sector domestic
certified market estimated2 between Rs. 250 to Rs. 300 crores. Estimates
put the other part of the irregular unregulated domestic unorganized-
uncertified-unmonitored organic market size range between Rs. 300 to
Rs. 500 crores. The certified cotton exports of over Rs. 1,100 crores is
another major component of Indias organic sector which is not part of
this discussion. Current Indian exports are predominantly non- value
added commodities.
1
APEDA estimates for 2014
2
Industry estimates.
07
02. Indias organic sector is poised for growth if the right interventions are implemented as all the
elements and ecosystem needed for making the sector significant have evolved over the past two
decades. These include a National standard as well as a National
program, a basic accreditation system, certifying bodies, a
relatively large base of organic farmers, basic supply chains and Exports drive India Organic
a number of small but robust organic companies managing Story. All elements in place for
these supply-value chains and participating in the global rapid growth. Domestic market
organic markets. Organic players have also been developing too holds potential for future

the domestic market and are optimistic, if consumer confidence provided confidence is built up
is built up meticulously, the domestic market too will grow to a in large urban markets.
considerable size. A strong unambiguous proven credible
certification system-label will no doubt be the foundation of
consumer confidence in the metro markets of the country which consume a lions share of premium
branded packaged foods. The foundations and momentum so far developed needs to dovetail into a
national organic master plan if the sector has to make a quantum jump.
03. This study was undertaken to identify the bottlenecks that impede the
growth of the sector and find out the strategic focus and requirements to Study to identify
take Indias exports as well as the sector as a whole from current levels to bottlenecks and
Rs. 10,000 crores by 2025 or even Rs. 50,000 crores. Also, the study provide Strategic
aimed at providing foundation for setting India Organic 2025 Vision and
Focus & 2025
form the basis for a detailed road map using shortlisted - identified
India Organic
focus product categories. Analysis of gaps & providing initial
recommendations for immediate implementation in areas of policy, Vision.
infrastructure, regulation, support, skilling & HR and branding are a
part of the study.
04. Individual Indian Organic firms/programs are very small and only a Collective effort
collective effort under a national plan and platform can provide focus required for national
and impetus to place India Organic in the premium global supermarket
success.
shelves currently dominated by financially stronger and better
organized firms in the developed world.
05. The primary goal of the study was to Identify Indias Top Ten Focus Identifying TOP TEN
Product Categories for concentrating efforts both in the value & supply
product categories
chains, and the next five categories to be developed for future. To
for focusing national
categorize and map the top organic global market and opportunity
analysis was other important goal. To understand gaps and bottlenecks effort.
and provide initial way forward as discussed previously was the other
major objective.
06. The methodology was a combination of primary research comprising exhaustive consultation and
interview process of members in the export value chain and comprehensive scan-access and study
of available knowledge on the sector from specialist Industry sources. Leading organic exporters
selected from the major product categories were interviewed face to face by experienced and
qualified staff from YES BANK across the nation using a mix of discussions and detailed
questionnaires. About fifty high quality interviews were achieved out of nearly hundred contacts
08
made. Other stakeholders in the value chain like certification bodies,

ICS managers, policy makers, government officials NGOs, farmers and 360 degrees
others were invited to stakeholder meetings in APEDA offices in Delhi, comprehensive in-
Mumbai, Bhopal, Kolkata and at Biofach- Kochi. Discussions with depth study
international players were also done in Biofach Kochi apart from
undertaken to zero
telephone interviews and an in-depth sector cross-sectional study visit
in on central
to Thailand anchored by the Thai Organic Trader Association (TOTA). A
Workshop was also conducted with the Industry members and APEDA to issues & arrive at
present interim findings and analyze top issues identified. recommendations.
2. Organic Companies Views and Perceptions on Top Issues: Survey

Highlights
01. The survey and discussions among major organic food companies highlighted some very important
issues of highest relevance and salience to Indian Organic Sectors future success:
a. Credibility of Indian certification in top markets of Europe and USA was opined as not
universally acceptable or partly suspect unlike in minor markets (e.g UAE & other Asian
countries) where it was not an issue. Exporters feel that the perception about quality of
Organic foods exported from India is a concern in top international markets; many opine that
3
spurious exports from India as certified is a challenge to be overcome and impacting overall
credibility.
b. The Indian third party certification system is felt to be generally good but overall credibility
needs to be built up and made more acceptable widely. Exporters are nervous about dilution
of Indian Organic Certification by a few fly-by-nights being allowed to operate within the
system.
c. The potential inclusion of untested systems like Participatory Guarantee Systems (PGS)4
where self-declared and self-attested products entering the Organic Certified category or
rather being labeled as Organic is felt to be counterproductive. It is opined that Organic
categorization should be in line with internationally accepted practices5 or it will negatively
impact the fledgling Indian organic sector which will continue to be dependent on the
international markets and also inhibit the development of the domestic market by
undermining consumer confidence.
d. Unambiguous labeling laws that define organic foods in lines of USDA & EU need to be framed
and implemented. Alternative systems can have different labeling as is the international
practice.
3
Soya and Cotton were pointed out by most eminent companies with established farmer and value chains as areas needing special
attention as a number of traders without any farmer network have mastered dubious practices bringing bad name to overall
industry. A weak accreditation system allowing dubious certifying bodies to operate was another weak link pointed out.
4
PGS is a system for local and direct markets where farmers and consumers can directly interact and not suitable for distant
markets where quality labels are demanded by consumers.
5
Only Certified products can be labeled as 'Organic' in Major International Markets like USA & EU. They need to follow 'laid down
standards' and 'be verified' by 'an accredited agency' before they can use the seal or label organic to ensure consumer
confidence as well as follow the required practices.
09
e. The Indian certif ication

The certification processes are cumbersome in India
processes are seen to be 45%
39%
extremely cumbersome and 40%
v e r y i n e f f i c i e n t a n d 35%
6
30%
identified as the primary
25% 22%
issue impacting the growth 20% 20%
and efficiency of the sector. 15%
Excessive controls, and 10%

7% 7%
5%
paper work and poor control 5%
of certifying agencies on 0%
Cant Say Strongly Agree Maybe Disagree Strongly
ground and weak
Agree Disagree
accreditation process were
important points raised.
The defining of Organic Standards was felt to be OK. Radical revamp of the overall system and
structure, introduction of more international practices, drastic reduction of paper work and
digitization was felt to the be need of the hour.
f. Most exporters think that Government/APEDA policy intent-support has made a

beginning/difference in promoting Organic Food Exports, though much more is expected.
g. The huge outlays, efforts and plans of Ministry of Agriculture with the farmers are seen to be
directed to diffuse farmers and not linked to either domestic market or exports requirements
which will pay organic premiums. It was felt that the farmers and the organic value chain will
benefit only if they are directly linked to the market requirements. Investments may be
wasteful and farmer sustainability will be a question mark if not aligned to the
buyers/consumers needs and priorities.
h. Large bases of Organic farmers need to be pooled and farmer incentives linked to and
channelized through established value chains-businesses who are primarily linked to the
markets and organic consumers.
i. It is felt that if Organic Organic Food Exports will thrive if farmers benefits are channelized through
hubs/ Organic Food Parks established businesses, profiting all concerned
with sufficient critical 60%
mass are developed it can 51%
50%
enable establishment of 40%
shared/common third 30% 27%
party logistics- 20%
infrastructure and supply 10% 5% 7% 7%
2%
chain and can give a boost 0%
Cant Say Strongly Agree Maybe Disagree Strongly
to Indian exports as also Agree Disagree
domestic markets and
benefit farmers too.
6
Also felt to be expensive.
10
j. Indian exporters were more inclined to supply commodities as against value added/
processed products given the current confidence levels. This could be a reflection of current
Indian exporters being small, not so seasoned, ill-equipped or less-supported or diffident of
7
the challenges on the global stage.
k. Development of the domestic market is extremely critical for the overall sustainability of the
Organic sector. Government support is highly required as the sector is very small. Consumer
education & organic category promotion is felt to be the basis for this which cannot be done
without considerable or total government support.
l. Food testing infrastructure and technology as well as credible testing acceptable to

international buyers are considered major bottlenecks for exports.
m. GMOs entering the food chain legally and illegally8 is a strong concern. The need for strong
and continuous monitoring mechanism and the organic community to also have a say here
was expressed.
3. The Global Market Opportunity for Organic Foods

01 As an impact of the organic movement internationally, and ensuring of consumer confidence
through a credible and standardized certification system, the global area under organic cultivation
indicating market supply, has been increasing rapidly at a CAGR of 10% from 15.2 mil ha in 1999 to
Source: Organic World 2015
7
It was opined to be 'pragmatic' for today's Indian exporters to be raw material- ingredient supply chain partner with
International brands as a practical export strategy in the next five years. However it was felt that with niche marketing and greater
and more effective work on gaining credibility and support of the government the situation of can significantly be improved
towards selling value added foods..
8
BT Brinjal illegally coming in through the porous Bangladesh border is a concern and new technologies getting approval other
than BT Cotton is the legal concern
11
9
43.1 mil ha in 2013-14 . The wild collection classified area comprises another 35 mil ha totally
amounting 78 mil ha. The organic component is about 1% of total global agriculture land. However
about 11 countries in the world have more than 10% under organic farm lands10. Of the total farm
land from available data nearly 27 mil ha is grazing land, about 3.7 mil ha is permanent crops (
11
orchards etc), and 7.7 mil ha arable crops . There are around 2 million organic cultivators; Asia
leads the list with 36 % of organic producers followed by Africa (29%) and Europe (17%).
12
02. The global organic food market which is estimated at USD 90 billion in 2015 has been growing at a

CAGR of around 12% for last 14 years.
03. Europe and North America together

Country Market Size Estimated
generate about 90% of the global organic
USD Million USD Million
food sales. United States leads the market
2013 2015
with a market size of over USD 39 billion
USA 32,000 39,000
followed by Germany, USD 11.2 billion and
France USD 6.7 billion. The largest organic Germany 9,800 11,200
market in EU is Germany with growth rate of France 5,700 6,700
over 7%. and, together with France, they China 3,100 4,500
represent over 50% of the EU organic market. Canada 3,000 3,600
Amongst the well established organic UK 2,700 2,900
markets, USA, Switzerland, Sweden and Italy 2,600 2,900
Norway have witnessed double digit growths Switzerland 2,100 2,600
in the recent years. few others like Poland and Austria 1,400 1,600
Brazil are reported to be growing at growth Sweden 1,300 1,650
rates of close to 20%-largely because of lower Japan 1,300 1,450
base. Spain 1,297 1,500
04. The organic packaged food and beverage Australia 1250 1,600
products category occupies around 40-50% of Denmark 1192 1,300
the total global organic food market with an Netherlands 1093 1,200
estimated market size of around USD 38-40 bn Brazil 910 1,300
in 2015. Of this, organic packaged food Finland 280 300
category accounts for USD 32-34 bn while
organic packaged beverages account for USD 4-6 bn. Dairy and dairy products,
bakery/confectionery products, ready meals and baby food are the largest categories in the
organic packaged food market globally accounting for around 50% of the total organic packaged
food market. Dairy sector accounts for close to 25% of the packaged food products followed by
bakery confectionery products (18%), ready meals (8%), baby food (6%), chilled processed
9
Organic World 2015. Fibl & IFOAM
10
Falkland islands, Liechtenstien, Austria, Sweden, Estonia, Switzerland, French Guyana, Czech Republic, Latvia, Italy
11
India, Brazil and Australia have not reported land use. In 7.7m.ha arable- Cereals 3.3, green fodder 2.4, oilseeds 0.8,veg &
protein crops 0.3 each.
12
USD 72 Billion is the last commonly accepted published figure and 90 billion is also the latest available estimation for 2015.
This is inclusive of all categories; packaged foods and beverages, F&V, meat & milk etc.
12
meat/seafood (5%), processed/frozen food (4%). Considering the beverage segment, the major
categories include those of fruits and vegetables juices, coffee and tea together accounting for
over 70% of the total non alcoholic beverage segment.
Category- Packaged Food Estimated Category- Beverages Estimated

market size market size
(2015) in (2015) in
USD mn USD mn
Dairy 7,500 Fruit/Vegetable Juice 1500

Bakery & Confectionery Products 6,000 Coffee 1100
Ready Meals 2,500 Non Cola Carbonates 320
Baby Food 2,000
Herbal Tea 280
Chilled Processed Meat and Seafood 1,500
Green Tea 240
Frozen Food 1,200
Black Tea 200
Snacks 1,200
Oils and Fats 1,100 Estimated for top 15 major global markets
Sauces, Dressings and Condiments 1,000
05. USA, Germany, France, UK and Italy are the global leaders in consumption of packaged organic
products. USA tops the chart with a consumption of around USD 15 bn, followed by Germany and
France with USD 4.2 bn and USD 3.5 bn respectively. There are other growing organic retail markets
in the lesser prominent countries like Argentina, China, Turkey, Colombia, India and Brazil. It is
estimated that in the coming years countries like China, India, Argentina, Morocco shall grow at
significant growth rates of upto 20-30% in the packaged/processed food segments. The larger
markets like USA, France and Italy shall continue to grow at 5-10%.
Country Estimated size of Estimated size of organic Estimated total Share %

organic packaged packaged beverages Marketsize-2015
food (USD mn) (USD mn) (USD mn)
US 14,000 1200 15,200 38%
Germany 4,000 200 4,200 12%
France 3,000 500 3,500 8%
U.K 1,800 300 2,100 5%
Italy 1,800 100 1,900 5%
China 1,800 50 1,850 5%
Canada 1,000 400 1,400 4%
Netherlands 900 100 1,000 3%
Denmark 800 100 900 2%
Austria 700 100 800 2%
13
06. Global trade in organic products is growing. Data is not universally tracked but a snapshot of latest -
trends indicate a positive outlook for exports from India:
a) USA imported organic food amounting to nearly USD 1.3 bn in 2014. The major commodities
include coffee, soybean, olive oil, bananas, wine and honey. Commodities like coffee,
bananas, wine and mangoes have seen a significant downfall in the import value, while the
import values of soybean, ginger, almonds and apples have significantly increased since
2011. India has been a major supplier to USA for tea, rice, ginger and soybean.

b) EU, the second largest market for organic products, is a major importer from 11 countries
including Australia, New Zealand, Argentina, Costa Rica, India, Israel, Tunisia, Switzerland,
USA, Canada and Japan. Germany is heavily dependent on imports and imported Dairy
products, cereals, fruits & vegetable like banana, soybeans etc. France is EUs second largest
market for organic food and roughly 25% of all consumed organic products are imported.
Main imported products include dairy products, fruits and vegetables, both fresh &
processed, wine, meat, eggs & beverages. Italy is the fourth largest market for organic food
in the EU and imported products include soybean, wheat, rice, sugar, maize, tea, coffee, nuts
etc.
c) U.S. alone exported USD 12.3 million to EU in 2014, an increase of 77% from 2011 to 2014.
Fresh grapes singly reached USD 4.7 million in 2014.
07. In terms of overall per capita

Per Capita consumption of Organic Food (USD)
consumption of organic food,
the leading countries are 273
Switzerland, Denmark and 212 204

Luxemburg with per capita 168 165
135
consumption of around USD 121
100 92
273, USD 212 and USD 204 57
respectively.
a n y da ay
and nmar
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erl m bo e n Au S we e rm Ca No
wit
z De xe ch
t G
S Lu Lie
14
4. A snapshot of individual global top markets

01. United State of America:
USA has the largest organic food market in the world with retail sales reaching USD 39 billion with a share
of 43% of global market. The organic food segment is growing at a rate of 11 % and expected to grow at 12-
14% CAGR during 2015-20. US consumers tend to perceive organic, especially USDA certified Organic as a
premium product category and have a favorable opinion about the organic food. Thus, there is a growing
preference for healthy, natural and safe food among the US consumer. Fresh fruits & vegetables is the
major category with 38% of organic food sales. There is high dependency on imports to meet the local
demand for organic food such as soybeans, coffee, fresh fruits & vegetables. US continues to be a major
export market for Indian organic food processors and traders.
Market Overview: US
Market Size USD 39 billion
Growth rate 11 %
Expected Growth Rate 12-14% (CAGR 2015-20)
Distribution Channel Hypermarket / Supermarket 66% Organic specialty stores 24%
Growth Rates Processed Categories Baby Food (8-10%) Dairy & Dairy Products (5-6%)
Fruits & Vegetable Juices (7-8%) Bakery Products (5-6%)
Product Categories-All % contribution Fruits & Vegetables 38% Dairy & Dairy Products 21% Meat, Poultry &
Eggs 7% Packaged food & Bread 26%
02. Germany:
Germany is the largest organic food market among European Union nations with retail sales of USD 11.2
billion. The organic food segment is growing at a rate of 5-7% and is expected to grow 9% CAGR during
2015-20. Organic food has gained popularity among German consumers as awareness level is high on
the impact of chemicals. Germany has one of the strictest laws for cultivation of GMOs, which also lead
to increase in organic food consumption. Milk and milk products is the major category with 24% of
organic food sales followed by fruits and vegetables at 21%. Organic food has become a mass market
product; Germany has to rely on imports to meet the local demand for organic food.
Market Overview: Germany

Market Size USD 11.2 billion
Growth rate 5-7%
Expected Growth Rate 9% (CAGR 2015-20)
Distribution Channel Hypermarket / Supermarket 53% Natural food stores 33%
Growth rates Processed Categories Ready meals (10%) Sweet & savory snacks (7%) Coffee (9%) Baby
food (4%)
Product Categories- All % Contribution Dairy & Dairy Products 24% Fruits & Vegetables 21% Bread & Bakery
15% Beverages 12%
15
03. France:
The French organic food market is valued at USD 6.7 billion growing at a rate of 10% and expected to grow
8-10% CAGR during 2015-20. French consumers have developed a strong understanding and acceptance
for health & wellness food segment. Consumers are becoming increasingly proactive and looking for
organic food. Milk & milk products is the major category with 21% of organic food sales followed by fruits &
vegetables at 17%. There is a preference for organic food with label Made in France. This can also be seen
as organic imports have declined from 36% (2011) to 24% (2014).

Market Overview: France
Growth rate 8-10%
Distribution Channel General retailer 45% Organic shops 34%
Growth Rates Processed Categories Baby Food (4-5%) Oils & Fats (7%) Processed Meat (4%) Juices (8-9%)
Eggs 7% Packaged food & Bread 26%
04. Italy:
The overall organic food market is USD 2.9 billion growing at a rate of 7% and is expected to grow 11%
CAGR during 2015-20. Greener & healthy segment is catching up fast in Italian market. There is a
growing concern of overweight and obesity among age group of 15 and above. Fresh fruits & vegetables is
the major category with 25% of organic food sales followed by milk & milk products at 18%.
Market Overview: Italy

Growth rate 6-7%
Distribution Channel Organic specialized stores 45%
Growth Rates Processed Categories Baby Food (5-6%) Rice (7-8%) Ready meals (4-5%)
Product Categories-All % contribution Fruits & Vegetables 25% Dairy & Dairy Products 18%
16
05. Denmark:
Denmark is one of the well developed organic food market with 8% of all food sold being organic. The
market size is USD 1.3 billion with growth rate of 6% and expected to grow at CAGR 5-6% (2015-20).
Danish consumers are more concerned about food sourcing and its impact on environment. Danish
government has launched organic plan to double the organic cultivated area in order to meet rising
demand for organic food by 2020. There is growing demand for sophisticated products such as
convenience food, tropical fruits, ethnic food etc. Dairy & dairy products are the major categories with
38% of organic food sales.
Market Overview: Denmark

Growth rate 6%
Distribution Channel Hypermarket / Supermarket 66% Organic specialized stores 24%
Growth Rates Processed Categories Processed Meat (7%) Rice (4-5%) Canned Food (5-6%)
Product Categories-All % contribution Dairy & Dairy Products 38% Fruits & Vegetables 18% Groceries 34%
06. Spain:
Spain organic food market is experiencing a growth rate of 8% with market size of USD 1.5 billion and is
expected to grow 10% CAGR during 2015-20. Organic food and beverages as of now is popular among
niche segments. With increase in awareness level among consumers, organic food is gaining acceptance
level across all consumer segments. Fresh fruits & vegetables is the major category with 35% of organic
food sales.
Market Overview: Spain

Growth rate 8%
Growth Rates Processed Categories Baby Food (8-9%) Ready Meals (8%) Sweet & Savory Snacks (9%)
Bakery Products (7%)
Product Categories-All % contribution Fruits & Vegetables 35% Cereals 18% Meat, Poultry & Fish 18%
07. United Kingdom:
Recovering after a decade of recession, the Organic food market is at USD 2.9 billion with a growth rate of
3% and expected to grow at a low CAGR. The major challenge for UK market is to return to solid growth. The
awareness campaigns by government and companies helped UK in last 2 years to regain the market. Dairy
products were among few categories with high growth rate. Fresh fruits & vegetables is the other major
category with 32% of organic food sales followed by dairy segment at 28%.
17
Market Overview: UK
Growth rate 3%
Expected Growth Rate NA
Growth Rates Processed Categories Baby Food (6-7%) Confectionary (8%) Snack Bars (8%)
Product Categories-All % contribution Fruits & Vegetables 32% Dairy & Dairy Products 28% Baby Food 11%

Meat, Fish & Poultry 10%
08. Switzerland:
Switzerland with USD 273, has the highest per capita consumption of organic food globally. Organic food
market size is USD 2.6 billion with a growth rate of 6%. Swiss consumers are the most health conscious
people in Europe as Switzerland is considered to be a global leader in organic farming and organic
products. As Swiss consumers purchase more and more food products for their perceived health benefits,
the value they place on such products continues to grow. Egg is the major category with 21% of organic
food sales followed by bread at 20% and fruits & vegetables at 19%.
Market Overview: Switzerland

Growth rate 6%
Growth Rates Processed Categories Coffee (9%) Green Tea (5%) Fruits & Vegetable Juices (6%) Frozen
Processed Food (4%)
Product Categories-All % contribution Eggs 21% Bread 20% Fruits & Vegetables 19% Dairy &
Dairy Products 10%
09. Canada:
Canada organic food market size is USD 3.6 billion growing at 9% and expected to grow at CAGR 5-6%
(2015-20). There is growing trend for fresh fruits & vegetables such as Banana, Apple, Citrus fruits etc for
gluten free baby food and organic coffee with a growth rate of 9%. Fresh fruits & vegetables is the major
category with 42% of organic food sales followed by organic beverages at 17%.
Market Overview: Canada

Growth rate 9%
Distribution Channel Hypermarket / Supermarket 45% Organic stores & online 29%
Growth Rates Processed Categories Baby Food (5%) Confectionary (6%) Coffee (9%)
Product Categories-All % contribution Fruits & Vegetables 42% Dairy & Dairy Products 13% Beverages 17%
18
10. Japan:
Japan is one of the most promising markets in Asia with market size USD 1.45 billion growing at a rate of
5% and expected to grow 9% CAGR during 2015-20. Japanese consumers are willing to pay a premium for
organic products with JAS logo. There is growing trend for organic beverages such as tea and coffee. With
the aging population, organic convenience food has picked up. Fresh fruits & vegetables is the major
category with 72% of organic food sales followed by cereals at 20%. There is high dependency on imports
(60% ) to meet the local demand for organic food. Earth quake/ tsunamis are regular features of the
nation so most of the consumer relies on imported food to meet the conventional and organic food
consumption.
Market Overview: Japan

Growth rate 5%
Distribution Channel E-Retail 40% Other retail stores 37%
Growth Rates Processed Categories Fresh Coffee (5%) Green Tea (3%) Bakery Products (3%)
Product Categories-All % contribution Fruits & Vegetables 72% Cereals 20% Green Tea 4%
11. Australia:
Australia is one of the fastest growing countries in organic food market with market size of USD 1.6 bn
which is growing at a rate of 15-18%. The organic food market is expected to grow 15% CAGR during 2015-
20. Australia is one of the fastest growing organic markets with the largest organic land under cultivation
i.e. 40% of the global organic land. Australian consumers believe in ethical food habits and have
environmental concern. There is a growing demand for organic food in supermarkets and modern trade.
Dairy is the major category with 27% of organic food sales followed by meat & poultry at 25%.
Market Overview: Australia

Growth rate 15-18%
Distribution Channel Hypermarket / Supermarket 69% Independent groceries 16%
Growth Rates Processed Categories Baby Food (11-12%) Dairy & Dairy Products (4-5%)
Bakery Products(7-8%)
Eggs 25%
12. South Korea:
South Korea is predominantly dependent on imported organic products. Korean organic food market
size is USD 578 million which is growing at a rate of 8%. The Korean consumer is health conscious, with
high disposable income and is ready to pay a premium for organic food. Korean population is rapidly
aging and considers healthy eating as a top priority. As per a study approximately 40% of the
population buys organic food on regular basis. Milk & milk products is the major category with 45% of
19
organic food sales followed by rice at 32%. There is high dependency on imports to meet the demand
for organic food. South Korea can be a major potential market for Indian organic food processors and
traders for rice, cereals, dairy products and processed fruits & vegetables.
Market Overview: South Korea

Market Size USD 578 million
Growth rate 8%

Expected Growth Rate NA
Distribution Channel Hypermarket 51% NACF mart 24%
Growth Rates Processed Categories Dairy (12%) Rice (7-8%) Bakery (5-6%)
Product Categories-All % contribution Dairy 45% Rice 32% Oils & Fats 5%
5. Snapshot of Indian Organic Sector

01. The latest estimates by APEDA indicate the total area under organic cultivation including wild area
was 4.9 million hectares in 2014-15 (42,000 ha in 2003-04) of which the certified farm area was
about about 24 % or 1.18 million hectares (0.72 million ha in 2013-14, a growth of 64%) and the rest
3.7 mil.ha or 76% was wild collection area. The
major organic food producing states in India Top 10 States Area Incl Wild Share
are Madhya Pradesh, Karnataka, Maharashtra, (mil. ha) (%)
Gujarat, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh and Odisha,
Madhya Pradesh 1.93 39.4%
with a combined share of 90% for the year
Himachal Pradesh 1.37 28%
2014-15. The worlds' largest number number of
Rajasthan 0.48 9.9%
organic cultivators are in India and estimated
at around 650,000. India has an inherent Maharashtra 0.22 4.4%
advantage in organic cultivation because of its Uttar Pradesh 0.11 2.2%
varied geography and climatic conditions. Andhra Pradesh 0.10 2.1%
Since, around 55% of the crops are cultivated Uttarakhand 0.09 1.9%
under rain fed condition; India has potential to Karnataka 0.09 1.9%
increase its area under organic farming. Hill Odisha 0.09 1.9%
regions in the N.E, Sikkim, HP & Uttarakhand Sikkim 0.08 1.6%
are by default organic, as chemicals are rarely
used here.
02. The estimated organic production for the year 2014-15 was 1.1 million MT which is slightly lower
than the previous year production (2013-14) i.e. 1.24 million MT. Statewise breakup of wild vs farm
production and contribution to total production is as below:
State Farm (MT) Wild (MT) Total (MT) Share
Madhya Pradesh 321586 377 321964 29%
Karnataka 254664 96 254761 23%
Maharashtra 217112 210 217323 20%
Gujarat 60621 5 60626 5%
Rajasthan 59449 667 60117 5%
Uttar Pradesh 50165 133 50299 5%
Odisha 28678 293 28972 3%
20
State Farm (MT) Wild (MT) Total (MT) Share

Uttarakhand 23695 19 23714 2%
Tamil Nadu 17218 380 17598 2%
Jammu & Kashmir 11234 3590 14824 1%
Others 51326 9044 60370 5%
Category wise breakup of organic crops is as below farm production 2014-15:
Category Production (MT) Share
Sugar Crops 338193 30.9%

Oil Seed crops 228414 20.8%
Fiber Crops 208931 19.1%
Cereals and Millets 159500 14.6%
Pulses 34717 3.2%
Plantation Crops 33930 3.1%
Medicinal/Herbal & Aromatic Plants 32663 3.0%
Fruits 20219 1.8%
Spices & Condiments 18176 1.7%
Vegetables 10824 1.0%
Dry Fruits 7348 0.67%
Around 99% of the production was from cultivated farms and wild collection was only 1% (14800
MT).
The top three states in the wild production are Chhattisgarh, Jammu & Kashmir, and Jharkhand,
having a combined share of 81% of the total wild production for the year 2014-15.
The combined share of top 10 categories is around 99%. The top four categories (with a share of
around 85%) include sugar crops, oil seed crops, fiber crops and cereals & millets.
03. Indian Exports of organic foods were estimated at INR 2100 crores in 2014-15 with total volume of
2.86 lakh ton and which is about 26 % of the total produced volume of around 11 lakh ton. It is
assumed that most of the balance quantity is sold in local markets or sold uncategorized. The
exports in the previous year were about Rs. 1328 crores.
04. The organized domestic certified organic market is estimated to be between Rs. 250 to Rs. 300
crores. Guesstimates put the other part of the irregular unregulated domestic 'unorganized-
uncertified-unmonitored' organic market size range between Rs. 300 to Rs. 500 crores. Total
domestic market13 estimates range widely from Rs. 500 crores to Rs. 1000 crores as no reliable
estimation exercise was ever undertaken.
05. The major share of exports were oil seeds , cereals and millets, and processed foods with a combined
share of around 87%. In the Oil seeds category, Soybean with exports of 1.46 lakh MT during
2014-15 had a share of around 91% . In cereal and millets category, rice, maize, wheat and millets
are being exported. In the rice category the quantity of basmati rice exported was around
10300 MT.
13
International Competence Centre for Organic Agriculture (ICCOA) estimated that the domestic market for organic products in the
year 2012 at Rs. 300 crore which grew to Rs. 600 crore in 2013 i.e. a growth rate of 100%. This was a very small study and involved
wide projections/ assumptions.
21
Export Category Quantity MT Major destinations

Oil Seeds & Crops 160559 USA, Canada, European Union
Cereals & millets 63622 Canada, European Union, USA
Processed Foods 23626 European Union, USA, Canada
Sugar Crops 19450 European Union, USA
Tea 5488 European Union, USA, Japan

Pulses 2547 USA, Canada, European Union
Dry Fruits 2417 USA, European Union, Canada
Spices & Condiments 2403 USA, European Union, Switzerland
Medicinal, Aromatic & Herbal Prod. 1223 European Union, USA, Australia
Coffee 1214 European Union
Essential & Aromatic Oils 866 USA, European Union, Japan
Fibre Crops 397 Turkey
Tuber Crops 139 USA, European Union
Edible oils 130 Switzerland, USA, European Union
Fruits 124 USA, European Union
Vegetables 109 Canada, European Union, USA
Ornamental Plants & Flowers 78 USA
Plantation Crops (non tea & coffee) 32 European Union
Honey 18 Australia, USA, Malaysia
Others 1165 European Union, USA, New Zealand
Total 285608
06. The major Indian export destinations were USA, European Union, Canada, Switzerland and Israel
with a combined share of around 99% in volume terms (lakh MT). In terms of export value USA,
European Union, Canada, Switzerland, and Japan have a combined share of 97%. Around 3000 MT of
organic produce worth value around INR 55 Cr was exported to different Asian markets in 2014-15.
The major Asian markets volume wise were Israel, Japan, Turkey, UAE, Singapore and Thailand.
Japan with Rs. 26.5 crore tops the chart in value terms followed by Israel, Turkey and China .
6. Supply Chain issues in Organic sector

01. The following key points were highlighted as important in the area of supply chain by
stakeholders during consultations at Mumbai, Delhi, Kochi, Bhopal and Kolkata:
a) Organic seed varieties are not available in India- Proper research and development on organic
seeds suitable for various agro-climatic zones is still lacking in India. State seed corporations
do not have certified organic seed. This is leading to erratic supply of various organic crop
seeds.
22
b) Plant protection is a big challenge in organic industry- Due to lack of research and availability of
organic plant protection, organic farmers are susceptible to utilize conventional products
(weedicides, herbicides and fungicides).
c) State-of-the-art residue testing labs are not available in India and most of the exporters are
sending samples to Europe for testing leading to higher costs as well as time for export
shipments increases, due to clearance from external labs.
d) Dedicated warehousing and transportation facilities are absent in India for organic produce
limiting the growth of the sector. Moreover contamination of organic commodities in
conventional warehouses is also an issue.
e) The North Eastern region is having abundant produce like large cardamom, pineapple, ginger,
citrus fruits etc. but due to lack of post harvest, storage and logistics infrastructure, inherent
strength of the region has not been realized.
f) Commodity specific infrastructure for organic produce is missing from farm gate to processing
centers. Ex: Silos for grains, Cold chain for perishables etc
g) For Organic F&V, sufficient dedicated cold chain and logistics facilities are not available, thus
hampering export of organic F&V, especially mango, grapes, pomegranate etc. Lack of
dedicated logistics for organic sector increases cross contamination issues.
h) Conventional processing technologies need to be redefined for organic produce. As existing

SME players are unable to invest significantly in dedicated infrastructure, this is leading to
quality issue in the finished processed products.
i) Organic produce is highly prone to pest infestation during storage as no chemicals are used for
fumigation. Conventional chemical based fumigation cannot be utilized for organic produce,
and hence new technologies like Co2 fumigation needs to be promoted and supported by grants.
7. Human Resources issues in Organic sector

01. The following points were highlighted as important in the area of Human resources by stake holders-
a) Lack of awareness on organic agriculture as a concept among farmers: This knowledge deficit
leading to a gap between what is required by the consumer/ buyer and what is produced by the
farmer leading to trust issues.
b) Lack of technical know-how leading to yield drops, contaminated output etc- divulging the
farmers from organic agriculture.
c) Inadequate extension activities and non availability of trained trainers. No significant impact is
being seen in up gradation of skills despite efforts from the government.
23
d) Inadequate budgetary allocation for capacity building in organic farming is limiting the
outreach and quality of capacity building.
e) Limited research in organic sector remains unfruitful until it reaches the farms. A revolution in
organic farming is possible only if the transfer is made efficient and its outreach is extended
significantly
f) Both the above areas reflects on most part a result on scattered nature of the sector, so efforts

and investments so far too have not been useful. Lack on concentrated hubs and the ability to
support these hubs is a very strategic gap in taking the sector forward.
Promotion & Branding of Organic Foods Internationally - Trends & Insights

Studying various research studies on organic consumer branding, trends and developments in the
organic markets internationally and especially research by Nielsen, we feel India Organic should
make a good note of the insight below:
When adding health and wellness claims to products, sellers must first understand how consumers
perceive their products. If the product is perceived as healthy, any claims regarding the health benefits
of a product are likely to resonate with consumers. For semi-healthy and indulgent categories, however,
manufacturers must be more selective and choose claims that address a particular product attribute.
For example, while consumers may be skeptical of heart-health claims for potato chips, they may be
more open to claims about low or reduced sodium because this is compatible with their view of chips as a
salty indulgence.
Susan Dunn, executive vice president, Global Professional Services, Nielsen
1. The New Age Organic is Actually Organic Plus: Branding Organic products is no longer simple.
Organic certification faces competition from other green movements, like sustainability which
many manufacturers are turning to. (PGS has an opportunity to go this route for domestic
markets). Research indicates, the brand Organic is saturating and overlapping with other
categories internationally. As the lines blur, it is important for Organic to conjoin with other/
kindred categories such as Fortified, Naturally Healthy, Vegetarian, Kosher etc. Fair Trade
Certification for instance is practiced by Soap maker Dr. Bronner's etc. and the French beauty
brand Nomino retains the basic Organic value while propagating other claims such as Local
Product/ Less Carbon Footprints etc. A new holistic approach is desirable in Organic branding.
2. Additional dimensions to Organic positioning: The organic certification of products highlights

to consumers that the product offers perceived health, but more commonly, environmental
benefits. However, other types of certification, such as Fairtrade and sustainability through the
likes of the Forestry Stewardship Council (FSC) provide alternatives for manufacturers to
highlight their corporate responsibility ideals. Organic players need to add the CSR/
sustainability dimension in their positioning
24
3. Whole Foods Move: Organic foods now face the challenge of being seen as prized food as against
prized for Organic alone. The point is best illustrated by the case of Whole Foods Market in USA.
By the early 2000's, Whole Foods had pretty much maxed out market share in the organic and
natural customer segment, but were pursuing growth. Research indicated that 80% of first-
time Whole Foods shoppers became loyal customers, and Foodies represented a highly prized
customer segment with the most untapped growth potential.
Their challenge was how to appeal to this segment more effectively and inspire Foodies to try
shopping at Whole Foods for the first time?
The answer was a shift in brand strategy. The strategy involved de-emphasizing the
Organic/natural messaging, and developing a new brand strategy targeting Foodies (without
alienating the earthy-crunchies) captured in the tagline Passionately Picky. The strategy
was expressed in an ad campaign focused on getting Foodies excited about a specific food item.
4. Dietary Claims: Today the scientific evidence questions the efficacy of conventional dietary
supplements, therefore Organic products branded with scientific dietary claims have potential
to see strong growth. Whereas in food and drink, organics can be associated with health
benefits, for many other industries, such as beauty and personal care, apparel and tissue and
hygiene, the purchase has strong ethical connotations.
5. Emotional claims a key: Most successful Organic branding is leaning on developing a lasting
emotional attachment with customers. This is the key ingredient in long-term customer loyalty
and establishing a sense of authenticity among followers. Fostering emotional attachment
helps build trust and gives customers a sense that 'we're in this together'. This can be a
powerful tool. (- Dan Ratner, Foodmagazine July 15)
6. Indian-ness in positioning: India evokes powerful and deep emotions in the western psyche,
but how do we leverage it? How do we develop a unique positioning which harnesses that?
Where does brand India Organic go now on? There is tremendous scope to incorporate the
Ayurveda and yoga platforms in Indian Organic branding. This is being used successfully in
the developed markets, Pukka Health Ltd for instance has significant sales for
herbal/traditional medicinal teas. It produces a wide range of organic bio supplements. The
company ensures the brand follows its beliefs in ayurveda, and targets those consumers trying
to achieve overall wellbeing, physically and mentally.
7. Brand values On Organic Pack: Packaging can be used to highlight brand values and features.
Brands can consider this desire for naturally healthy food through the use of thoughtful
packaging that reflects the brand's core values and key features. Many health food companies
are generally opting for images that reflect this desire, such as nature, families and fresh
produce. (Whole Kids, for example, uses this strategy)
25
8. Messaging for Organic: Message Strategies in branding need to take into account a few things.
It's best to avoid consumer's skepticism and be more transparent about the contents and
source of foods, providing stronger scientific support for health claims to build consumer trust.
It helps if the health/wellness claims are clear and upfront. Transparency is key for health food
brands looking to reinforce and communicate authentic healthy foods. Consumers want to
know more about the products they're buying and it makes good business sense to oblige them.

9. Packaging and Labels: Reliability for Organic: Customers look for authenticity, transparency
and reliability- safety in organic products. Thus it is important the packaging to reflect these
values. The label 'certified organic should authenticate this unambiguously. Customers are
looking for transparent ingredient listings and ingredients, they believe are safe.
10. Packaging material: In Organic products packaging material too has important message to
lend itself. Often, the design comprises fresh, pure images, where the environmental benefits,
in particular, are easily recognized. The use of greener packaging is true not only for food, but
increasingly for other organic products, including pet in the developed markets, Pukka Health
Ltd for instance has significant sales for herbal/traditional medicinal teas. It produces a wide
range of organic bio supplements. The company ensures the brand follows its beliefs in
Ayurveda, and targets those consumers trying to achieve overall wellbeing, physically and
mentally.
11. Information on Organic packaging: Packaging labels are a key source of information for
Organic consumers. Globally the respondents say they read packaging labels carefully.
Manufacturers and retailers need to provide easy-to-understand and clear nutritional
information to help respondents take control of their health.
12. Packaging Organic to aid informed decision: It's also important to make it easy for consumers
to cut through the clutter (nutritional content of foods as well as the environmental and social
impact, production source and health benefits) and make informed decisions by helping them
understand the benefits of particular ingredients and foods using out-of-store
communications, in-store signage/displays and package claims.
Packaging for Organic should suggest an openness about the origins of the food and invites
people to find out more about the brand.
NOTE: Data sources for part 1are Industry Reports from- Fibl/ IFOAM/ Organic data network/ USDA/ OTA/ Global Organic
Trade/Individual Country Trade Data/ Organic World / Trade Publications/Report by Govt. of Canada (www5.agr.ca)/Austro Organic
Report/The Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Environment (MAGRAMA)/Italian Ministry for Agriculture (MiPAAF)/International
Society of Organic Agricultural research/Intracen.org/ APEDA/GOI/ Others
Part 2
Recommendations
28
Recommendations
1. Identification of India Stars or Focus Products:
Top 10+5
01. India today exports about 300- 400 products, mostly non value
added commodities at the bottom of the value chain. Of these the
major share are low value bulk commodities - oil seeds , cereals and
millets with a share of over 55% of the volume, soybean alone
having lions share. Indian exports are basically a cheap low-cost
source for organic companies that value value add or process and
sell it further to companies that brand and market them to
consumers.
02. Most of the value is thus lost and the country is unable to do
anything about it given that the sector as well as individual
companies have very low bargaining power and are also small. They
do not have resources to do what is required to go up the value chain
or break-into the markets at a higher level of value or price point.
Small exceptions of course do exist but once again they are mere
blips in the aggressive competitive global market place and are
struggling with firms from other countries that are larger, more
specialized and can also produce at lower costs having efficiencies
of scale.
03. The sourcing, collection and other logistics and supply chain
activities are scattered geographically and no industry
concentration exists even at a micro level. Organic farming is
spread across the nation and farm concentration in individual crops
or clusters are difficult to come by. Farmers, thus do not have
supply to authentic organic farm services, inputs and guidance on
crop management. They face similar problems of poor productivity,
inefficiency and inability to get the best market price possible
though they produce a premium product.
29
04. Overall, across the value chain from the farmer to exporter, there is no specialization and
inefficiency is common. Professionalism and efficiency can be brought in only if there is
concentration and scale.
05. Organic is a niche business worldwide. Niche businesses strategy has differentiation at its
core and has two well established cardinal principles:

a. Specialization: Do something better than anybody else by investing in all forms of
knowledge and specialization in selected market segments where you can do better than
most others.
b. Closeness to customer: be as close as possible to the customer so that the player can react
quickly to his needs and changing preferences. So sell as much higher up the value chain
as possible.
This is the competitive strategy India needs to adopt and get the best price from the market which
can thus go down the value chain up to the farmer.
06. Unless there is a concerted effort in a few focused selected areas, India cannot go up the value
chain, have specialization and build an efficient supply chain. India can succeed in the
organic business if it specializes and gives the best deal to the farmer, earn valuable foreign
exchange and build a thriving export business for the country as a whole. Product focus is 50
% of the strategic battle.
07. The study team went through a comprehensive exercise to identify areas where Indias
organic business should focus on:
a. Develop specialization
b. Develop concentrated pockets of organic farm clusters
c. Build common primary farm processing and storage in those organic farm clusters
d. Develop superior technology in selected focus areas in processing and handling
e. R& D in product development
f. Industry /consolidation for efficiency
g. Common India thrust under which firms can operate for marketing in these selected
product groups.
h. Developing new export markets and access for sustainable global trade Ex: Russia,
Australia, Korea etc
08. Focus products were selected through a comprehensive exercise. Five parameters were used
to arrive at the final scores for selecting top prospects for 2025:
a. Global Organic Market Size

b. Market Growth - Current and projected
c. Future Prospects in the Category and derived Value Added Productsand value added
products
30
d. India Fit & Competitive ability

e. Momentum Developed so Far
Seasoned exporters opinion, rating on prospects and future potential were also taken in context of
current export value and growth rate for each individual category and scores were also used.
09. Top 10+5 Focus Products: Extensive analysis and stakeholder consultations have resulted in the
following recommended products as the top organic product categories for development and
promotion. These categories and their derivative products should form the basis of Indias organic
food product export growth till 2025.
The next category of growth products

The product categories are as follows: for future development are as follows:
INDIA VOLUME UNTAPPED FUTURE
NEXT 5 PRODUCTS
HERITAGE DRIVERS STARS DIRECTIONS
1. Rice 4. Soybeans 8. Fruits and 10. Processed 11. Groundnut
2. Spices and 5. Pulses and Fruit Packaged 12. Herbs/Medicinal plants
Condiments Legumes Products Foods &
13. Minor Millets (Plain &
3. Tea & Herbal 6. Sesame, 9. Nuts and Ingredients
Hill)
Beverages flaxseed, Dry fruits
safflower & 14. Animal Feed
other oil 15. Coconut & Other niche
seeds opportunities
7. Sugar &
Sweeteners
2. Identification of Focus Markets

01. Top Markets: Based on the market Countries Market Size Growth Exporters Current
potential, size, growth rate and (USD Million) Rate Confidence
exporter's confidence levels of North America 39,000 11% High
doing well in that market following Germany 11,200 7% High
were selected as focus markets.
France 6,700 10% Medium
North America and EU markets
UK 2,900 3% High
were voted as most important
Netherlands 1,093 5% Medium
which was not surprising.
Switzerland 2,100 12% Medium
02. The individual countries Japan, Canada 3,600 9% Medium
Australia, South Korea and Israel Australia 1,250 15% Medium
are relatively new markets for India Japan 1,300 5% Medium
and there is a need for initiating
trade shows here immediately.
Competition in these markets is likely to be less intense and if India can enter these markets in a
planned manner putting value added products and brands may be relatively easier though the
process could be slower than the largest markets.
31
Countries Market Size (USD Million) Growth Rate Exporters Current

Confidence
South Korea 578 8% Medium
Israel 65 8% Medium
China 4,500 20% Low
Italy 2,900 6% Low
Sweden 1650 12% Low

EU Austria 1,600 6% Low
Spain 1500 8% Low
Denmark 1300 6% Low
Brazil 1000 20% Low
New Zealand 107 11% Medium
Russian Fed. 180 12% Low
South Africa 15 16% Low
UAE 20 9% Low
03. Other Markets for Development: The markets listed above are most likely untapped by the Indian
exporters, therefore showing up low current confidence in dealing with them. But it is to be noted
that some of them have very high growth rates and maybe an early entrant advantage is possible here
since no established trade relationship need to be overcome. these markets will be looking for new
suppliers.
04. There is a need for a country wise sales plan for the focus products as well as promotional plan for the
focus product categories identified earlier.
05. Detailed country wise survey may be required in the next stage to make the above plan.
3. Promotion & Branding India Organic

01. Organic foods are premium and sensitive foods. They need to be carefully differentiated. Today saying
it is organic is not enough, it has to be articulated well and there is a need to create a 'organic-plus'
identity to bring the brand into consideration set of an organic consumer both domestically and
internationally. The label which certifies it as organic needs to have a strong recall and be associated
with some brand properties. Credibility, authenticity and trust are mandatory to Organic product
category and advertising, packaging and labeling has to communicate these to the consumers.
Brand India with her rich ethnic and culinary culture is a big puller but ironically brands from India
aren't. This is because the basics of branding and brand promotion are not being followed for the
category when marketing them internationally.
02. When it comes to India Organic brand, other than a logo, there is no coherent Brand promotion
strategy for promotion for near or far term. Key communication premises for India Organic brand
need to be developed and positioning statements and relevance-salience in importing markets
tested. Extensive and consistent communication (using multi-media vehicles) of brand values in line
with the international expectations outlined above need to be done to achieve desired perception for
Brand India Organic in global markets.
32
A comprehensive Brand Personality/ Identity/ Communication plan needs to be charted out. Goals
must be set for the brand & budget allotted in order to achieve awareness targets in different
audiences and the same implemented through professional agencies.
03. India organic is likely to grow its products and markets and become a flagship of Indian organic
produce internationally, thus an umbrella branding needs to be created for India organic brand, and
after that a strategy to establish linkages between Umbrella and Individual Indian Organic Company
brands developed.
04. It may be prudent for the national brand India Organic to use shared communication platforms and
undertake joint promotion of India Organic and individual brands so that individual brand can be
supported as vehicle to take India Organic brand values as against non targeted- non carrier generic
promotion.
Different brands of different exporter companies could be used via joint promotion to communicate
core values of India organic brand.
05. The sensibilities of international markets are inclined towards testimonies and referrals. Once there
is a foothold, penetration of the brand is relatively easier. It may therefore be useful to create
avenues for business of India Organic brand with leading and reputed global retail houses and
organizations globally and ride on these testimonies for further growth.
06. Aggressive promotion strategy using a strong branding theme in all vehicles including trade fairs etc
should be linked branding strategy and sales plan. It is necessary to allocate communication budget/
expenses with clear sales targets in each focus product and focus country. Promotion plan must have
all elements. Other initiatives must include: Trade missions and business meetings, Assistance in
fairs, congresses and other events abroad, Market studies for TM, changes in trends and allied Market
access problem identification, studies and execution of possible solutions.
07. A domestic branding and promotion strategy should be done hand in hand which dovetails into the
international positioning. Urban customers buying premium products especially organic products
may be similar to international. The Domestic Market for Organic products is still in nascent stages
and the government could expedite the process through Consumer education on organic foods, this
is of critical importance. Promoting organic category locally and creating awareness of organic foods
among all stakeholders, especially consumers is a must. (Healthy foods, natural foods, pesticide free
foods, organic foods, zero residue foods are few categories that occupy super market shelves.) AIOI
could facilitate this promotion for a pan India consumer campaign/ education program on the lines
of Milk/ Egg Promotion initiatives. The same could be overseen by APEDA/ GOI. The government could
sponsor the consumer awareness campaign in the media and fund the same. The domestic campaign
will have cascading effect on the supply chain- farmers as it will enable pride in being an organic
farmer as well.
08. A medium and long-term marketing strategy including recommendations for branding is required
and the financial and technical resources required need to be identified to implement the strategy.
The overall marketing strategy will include a detailed short-term marketing and promotional
program for the first five years, outlining activities, targets and cost estimates on a yearly basis.
33
A study needs to be commissioned immediately to evaluate this critical area of branding with
following objectives:
a) Map consumer needs and concerns in both domestic and top international markets to find out
relevant positioning platforms.
b) Test most relevant platforms and identify the best position that India Organic should adopt
c) Fix communication goals for each segment

d) Enable a 5 year marketing plan with year wise budget requirements to meet above
communication goals
e) Enable a brief to an advertising- creative agency to develop an advertising campaign for above
4. Standards-Regulations-Certifications
01. Credibility and 'organic integrity' are key to the success of India's organic effort. Any doubt or
shadow will set Indias efforts back by years. The Indian third party certification system is felt to be
generally good where established relationships with sound parties exist, but overall credibility
needs to be built up and made more acceptable widely. Exporters are nervous about dilution of
'Indian Organic Certification' by a few bad apples being allowed to operate within the system, these
need to be weeded out urgently.
02. There is also a feeling that PGS may be allowed to use the established Organic label to accede to
demands of NGO's leading the PGS movement. This is a matter of grave concern because PGS being
less stringent and self-certifying claim is an untested label and can dilute the authenticity of entire
Organic category both domestically and internationally. This could derail all the work of building
credentials of Indian Organic products so far. This is also against International norms in the largest
global organic markets like USA & EU.
03. The PGS system is recognized by IFOAM as most suitable for 'local' markets which are described as
markets where the farmer and consumer interact directly or know of each other. Local does not mean
domestic distant markets in cities far away from the farms. The word 'local' is being confused in
India to connote domestic market (as against international market). Consumers in city markets in
India are very concerned about non-adulteration, authenticity and genuineness of claims and
require certification in no uncertain terms. So it's recommended that Organic label and PGS label be
kept apart and not get mixed up.
04. Certification costs more money and is very stringent. The certification processes are stringent and
cost money, but they offer the consumer the watertight assurance he seeks. Higher incentive should
be given for farmers going in for organic certification in comparison to PGS, so that the two are
clearly set apart as deserved. Both the domestic customer who is willing to pay more and the farmer
who works harder both deserve protection from lower quality checks.
05. PGS should be used to educate & encourage farmers to take up sustainable farming. The farmers
could then migrate to certified organic. As such calling it as "Organic" would be misleading.
34
06. Today in the market place it is not enough to have just an Organic premise, it's necessary to make an
Organic +, branding with other certifications. Other certifications needed and sought by the
consumers in the international market include Fair-trade, Gluten free, Vegetarian, Halal, Kosher,
Humane etc.
07. To streamline the current certification process the following needs to be done immediately:
a) Three month study to be commissioned for understanding and receiving suggestions on in
TraceNet through commodity wise stakeholder meeting across India.

b) To review and streamline TraceNet which otherwise is good for the industry, a Task Force needs
to be to be set up immediately with members from the industry, CBs and APEDA to review,
streamline and make it practical for industry requirement. This should be accomplished within
time line of three months.
c) Review of equivalence of Indian standards with USA, EU and other countries. Resume the
equivalence for processed products in EU, obtain equivalence for all products of USA and
emerging markets like S. Korea, China, Japan etc.
d) Moderation in paper work and increase in digitization is needed since it is very inefficient and
requires huge documentation (Takes almost one month from packing to shipping for preparing
documentation. There is no flexibility for adding new products- the policy is rigid and
impractical)
08 Other recommendations:
a) APEDA to Institutionalize Annual Participative Dialogue (APD) with Cbs & industry for more
effective ownership and role clarity. ii) APEDA and FSSAI to institutionalize annual National
Pesticide Residue Testing (NPRT) to build trust in consumers and help genuine organic
operators. iii) Review of CBs role and independent monitoring of their functioning. iv) Propose
a new organic trade regulatory body similar to TRAI to protect interests of stakeholders. APEDA
can continue to function in policy making and licensing etc. v) study required to investigate
certification costs./ processes in other countries, to put quality control mechanism in place so
as to avoid penalty measures/ bans, analysis costs which are highly prohibitive needs to be
drastically reduced. The certifying agencies are just scared of regulatory system which is viewed
as business unfriendly. TC costs need to be regularized and made reasonable. vi) Dairy and
Livestock Certification: As on date no CB has been accredited for livestock and dairy
certification, this is the need of the hour and urgent steps for accreditation of the CBs to be
taken up.
5. Policy
01. Domestic Organic policy especially certification and standards should be made subsidiary to
international market development and export requirements. This ensures Indian export credibility
is not impacted in any way (till such a time organised sector domestic market sales near exports-
correctly domestic to exports is 200-2100 cr), additionally Indian customer also gets the global
quality product.
35
02. NPOP- should be the only standard for both domestic and international market and enforced strictly.
Only one body should oversee one quality and one national standard. Clear-cut organic labelling
laws like USDA & EU as international practice need to be implemented for India for both domestic and
international markets.
03. Two separate bodies are suggested for the development of Indian organic sector, one for uniform
regulation and other for promotion and awareness of organic (for promotion, Domestic and Exports
should be handled separately).

6. Support
Incentive policy framework for organic with following 6 principles:
01. Incentives support to individual companies meeting criterion for infrastructure support as against
creation of common facilities, except in very special cases like North East.
02. For the North Eastern rigion - a common Organic Food Park is proposed for common infrastructure.
AIOI is prepared to take up responsibility to maintain and run the same as a JV/Other with the Govt.
under a special purpose vehicle.
03. Encourage and incentivize globally accepted certification agencies and labs to set up India
operations so that Indian organic is found acceptable in International markets. Work
simultaneously to set up global standard India lab in collaboration with world majors and work
towards acceptability. AIOI is to help facilitate this.
04. Extension fund for ICS managers based on number of farmers to be provided for providing organic
training. ICS managers working directly with exporters should be given access to this fund.
05. Integrate all incentives into market-linked supply chains & incentivize linkages. Need to discourage
stand-alone non-sustainable programs which are not market-driven leading to farmer distress.
06. MEIS scheme to be made available to all organic exports. Organic Commodity and Processed food
products to be given a separate identity from Conventional products. Export Promotion for Organic
Products accompanied with an APEDA issued Transaction Certificate may always be exempt from any
bans or restrictions from Export. MEIS of 5% may be made available on all Certified Organic Product
exports.
07. No Bans or restrictions in exports. Commodity stocking limits also should be lifted.
08. Others: Stakeholder Support System (3S) platform for the industry covering the following aspects to
be available : incentives for exports, incentives for new product and market development,
infrastructure set up under private ownership, trade facilitation in new export destinations,
incentives for sustainable eco-packaging and packaging innovations, brand building for new
product categories and new export destinations
36
7. Infrastructure & Supply chain

01 Advanced Food Testing Laboratories: (FTLs)
a) To be set up at 4 strategic locations with an aim to be on par with (equivalence) EU labs.
Subsidized FTLs for consumer level sampling and residue analysis at key metros. Reverse
bidding process to be adopted to set up FTLs with a cost target of INR 500 per microbial,
chemical and toxicity analysis. This would encourage genuine operators of the sector.
Setting up of world class food testing laboratories in a three tier system at farm level,
processing and consumer market level and port levels for unbiased food testing and
transparency. Low cost food testing innovations to be encouraged through global
tendering.
Organic Food Parks (OFPs) to be set up in key organic food production clusters with
assistance from MoFPI for common infra. Tenders should be invited with active
participation of Indian exporters, global buyers and FTLs as partners.
Supply chain control by operators: Entire farm-gate handling to processor supply chain
should be under the ambit of organic processors and exporters. This will ensure proper
focus by the farmers on quality production on the farm.
8. Skilling & HR
01 Organic farming to be included in the National Skill Development Mission. AIOI can be made the
nodal agency for this.
02 Credit course on organic agriculture to be developed and implemented in all agricultural
universities.
03 Recommendations from private sector (from Indian and global stakeholders) for the curriculum
design
04 Active NGOs, grass root level institutions and Certification Bodies can also become partners for
education. Corporate CSR funds should be made available under alleviation of rural poverty
theme.
05 Training the trainers- Training modules to be prepared after consultation with industry players as
well. Impact assessment to be done periodically for the organic extension activities
06 Seeing is Believing- Demonstration farms to be set up for organic farming- Support private sector to
set up organic demo plots. Use existing organic farms as success stories. Farmers, who are already
practicing organic agriculture can also be selected as demonstrators.
07 Extension activities should take place in a PPP mode, wherein the service provider identifies a cluster
for his work and proposes his work methodology
08 Increasing Budget Allocation: Allocations for promotion of organic farming be scaled up
substantially to meet the intended objective of sustainable agriculture
09 Formation of Self Help Groups and Farmer Producer Companies: Better planning and management of
resources, value addition and marketing is possible through formations of of SHGs/ICS groups/FPCs
37
9. Product Specific
Category (key products) Sector specific recommendations
All Products 1. MEIS scheme
2. Organic farmer development- PKVY to be given via all operators,
especially market linked supply chains. Extension fund for ICS
managers based on number of farmers to be provided for providing

organic training. ICS managers working directly with exporters should
be given access to this fund
3. Common infrastructure - In areas where organic acreage is well
developed, common infrastructure for storage and post harvest
processing to be created.
4. Multiple inspection agencies to be removed, especially in Fruits &
Processed food as it is closely monitored (export inspection agency).
Rice and rice products (Basmati, 1. Technology for organic rice bran oil extraction to be developed in
non basmati rice, rice bran and association with IICT, DRDO etc.
products, rice protein, rice syrup, 2. Market development for specialty rices- red rice, joha rice, sticky rice
rice powder, poha, puffed rice, in export destinations
rice cakes etc) 3. Duty for non basmati rice to be worked upon with EU.
4. Alternative fumigation methods- support for subsidizing cost for CO2
fumigation facility at the ports and at primary processing level.
5. Subsidy and grants for establishing specialized fumigation facilities for
organic rice, grains. 50% of cost as grant could be provided with
maximum cap of support at 1 crore per beneficiary.
6. Subsidy on cold warehousing for grains. Organic grains to be classified
as perishables through a request to MoFPI.
7. Extension fund for ICS managers based on number of farmers to be
provided for providing organic training. ICS managers working directly
with exporters should be given access to this fund.
Tea and herbal beverages 1. Subsidy on the tea packaging machinery, brand promotion and market
(Conventional and herbal teas development of tea (Ex: Organic Darjeeling, organic Assam teas etc)
and beverages) 2. Special fund for development of organic market in domestic and export
markets
Nuts and dry fruits (Cashew, 1. Value added cashew processing machinery subsidy
walnuts, value added products)
Soybean and products (Soymeal, 1. Merchandise Export Incentive Scheme (MEIS) to be reintroduced for
soybean, lecithin) certified organic products.
Processed, packaged products 1. Testing subsidy for GMOs, Pesticides etc to be provided for processed
and ingredients (Ethnic / foods till globally equivalent Food Testing Laboratory is set up in India.
specialty foods Gourmet meals)
38
Category (key products) Sector specific recommendations

Sugar and sweeteners 1. Govt should remove quantitative restrictions on organic products as
long as TC (Transaction Certificate) is accompanying the consignment.
Fruits and processed fruit 1. RCAC generation should be enabled in TraceNet.
products (Mango, guava, papaya, 2. Fruit specific markets and production zones to be developed.
passion fruit, pineapple, kinnow 3. NE common processing facility to be set up to benefit domestic and
export marketers. NE to scale up production quantities of export crops
(citrus) (pulp, purees),

dehydrated, frozen products) through free seedlings and using extension funds.
4. A production hub may be set up at Guwahati/ Siliguri with aseptic
pulping, pack house, dehydrated F&V unit as common facility. AIOI as
discussed earlier will join.
5. Each identified exportable crop to be grown in at least 10,000 Ha as
target area across Indian organic clusters. All major organic F&V
processing clusters should be supported by subsidies for primary and
secondary processing.
Pulses and legumes (All dals and 1. MEIS scheme for pulses exports to be introduced. Pulses are net
beans in value added forms for Foreign exchange positive if organic dals are exported and import
Vegan, Gluten free markets) conventional dals. This will enable market competitiveness. It could be
in the form of Market / Product Development Fund.
Sesame, flaxseed and other 1. To be encouraged with the support of Market & Farming development
seeds, safflower, oil seeds fund.
Spices and condiments 1. Steam sterilization facility subsidy to be provided for spices.
2. 75% grant to be provided for NE processing facilities for spices and all
other fruits, vegetables processing.
3. Organic Food Park to be set up exclusively in NE including other key
products of NE origin.
Processing aids (Coloring agents, 1. A special study to be commissioned on this category
natural dyes)
Peanuts 1. Post harvest techniques for organic groundnut handling are to be
developed in association with ICAR and other key research institutions.
2. Key organic ground nut clusters in KN, AP, GJ, MH, TN to be developed
for on farm and off farm management of Aflatoxins.
3. Village level storage facilities for storing groundnut
Herbs/ medicinal plants 1. Whole category needs special study for identification of product
(Extracts, raw herbs) selection and strategy
Hill millets (Amaranth, foxtail) 1. To be supported through Market & Farming development fund.
Animal feeds (Meals, DOCs, DOB) 1. Soybean needs special monitoring, instead of sending raw material,
formulated feed to be exported, using all cakes and other crops as feed
ingredients.
Coconut based products 1. Market and technology development for Indian coconut products.
(Oil, milk, desiccated coconut,
flour, water)
Part 3
Vision 2025
40
Vision 2025
1. Way Forward
The global organic food market-currently at USD 90 bn shall reach close to
USD 230-280 bn by 2025 at the current growth levels. The Indian organic sector
at USD 415 million (Rs.2700 Cr) is not even 0.5 % of it, constituting both
negligible domestic component and exports.
For planning growth, scaling up and for the overall economic development of a
business sector, it is necessary to have a threshold size and critical mass. This
should be the basis for all future visioning, plans, investment & establishing
infrastructure. Unfortunately the Indian Organic sector lacks this critical mass.
While a straight line vision and growth plan may seem logical and way to go
about, in actuality it will neither make any difference nor enable sustainable
success. Only a radical vision can bring the Indian Organic sector to achieve this
threshold, and also make it forward-looking.
Based on the extensive assessment of the domestic sector, the international

markets and India's current position in it, we are outlining three scenarios for
the future of Indian organic sector.
The choices and decisions made on these scenarios will determine the way
forward.
41
2025: The Three Scenarios Indian market size and share-

projections (INR crores)
I. CAG-Conventional Assisted Growth- 50,000 44,600 3.5%
3.03%
Straight Line Normal 45,000
3.0%
40,000
35,000 2.5%
II. FSG-Focused Sectoral Growth-

30,000 2.0%
Strategic Focus Intervened 25,000
8,840 12,205 1.5%
20,000
III. RTG-Radical Transformational 15,000
0.58%
0.80% 1.0%
Growth- Exponential Planned 10,000
0.5%
5,000
- 0.0%
CAG FSG RTG
Indian Market Size Share of Global Market
Targets- Projections14 for the three different Scenarios

Scenarios Current 2025 Projections* Constant Prices
Product Category 2015 CAG FSG RTG
Vaule Add-Processed Food 110 440 1,525 10,000
Soybean & S.bean Products 757 3,100 3,100 6,000
Rice-Basmati 124 500 750 4,000
Rice-Non Basmati 48 200 500 3,000
Tea 320 900 1,500 2,500
Spices &Condiments 54 220 750 2,000
Fruits 1 50 50 1,000
Oil seed crops 181 470 470 750
Dry fruits 157 650 650 750
Sugar 97 250 250 500
Pulses & Legumes 23 60 60 100
Indian Top 10 TOTAL 1,869 6,840 9,605 30,600
Next 5 Products 100 400 1,000 12,000
Other Organic Products 400 1,600 1,600 2,000
Total 2,369 8,840 12,205 44,600
% Share of World Market 0.58 0.80 3.03
* Initial provisional Scenarios. Each category would need detailed study to arrive at ratified figures. At present no official study nor data available for the
organic sector, this is the first such attempt.
01. In this Conventional Assisted Growth approach the projections are based
on aiding the natural growth rate trend and boosting it a few points to CAG- CONVENTIONAL
about 15 to 20% per annum with a consideration that incentives and ASSISTED GROWTH
schemes are provided and identified issues, problems and policy (Straight Line Normal)
bottlenecks are smoothened. This is a highly conservative model and (8,840 Cr by 2025)
neither farmers nor exporters will stand to benefit appreciably through
this approach.
14
Initial provisional Scenarios: Each category would need detailed study to arrive at ratified figures. At present no official study
nor data available, this is the first such attempt.
42
The Indian organic exports can reach the Rs. 8,840 mark if all policy hurdles are removed and current
incentives asked for are provided. However, no distinctive change in global market share is visible
here. It shall remain below 1%.
India remains static in the world market even though there is four times jump in revenue.
02. Under the Focused Sectoral Growth strategy the growth is strategically
FSG-
planned for chosen product categories of higher value and the

composition of exports is changed deliberately through planned FOCUSED SECTORAL
interventions. The chosen focus categories include Rice, Tea, Value GROWTH (With Strategic
Added Processed Foods & Spices. These need to be specially supported Focus Interventions)
for sectoral growth given their higher value. ( 11,750 Cr By 2025)
Growth of 25% to 30% per annum is targeted in this approach for

specially picked categories with higher value as well as market
potential and support is provided to achieve the higher growth rates. An additional Rs.3500 crores
exports are possible with this strategy.
The effort required is very different from the first approach. Here the export has to focus on including
new value-added product options, ingredients and processed products as against exporting primary
processed products or commodities. The products and markets related to the chosen categories need
to be developed and special schemes formulated to ensure growth in each. Selling value- added
products involves overseas marketing activity as against exporting commodities, it is quite different
from the mechanics of a low-level supplier. Overseas importers are reluctant to buy ready-processed
foods or even semi- processed value-added foods even if it is to another brand, unless some
conditions are met. Some of these conditions pertain to quality assurance and some with liability in
their own domestic markets. The right policies need to be framed and requisite support provided on
all these counts. Needless to state R & D and technology development is an integral part of this
approach.
This approach is in line with the current thinking of the government and the global market share
achievable thorugh this approach is only 1% of the world market. The strategic advantage derived for
India Organic through this approach remains small on the whole in spite of focused efforts as the market
share obtained is small .
03. The third approach is one of Radical Transformational Growth

planned exponentially. This is a massive step-up over the second RTG-
scenario. In this approach, the selected focus products are studied in RADICAL
depth, product by product, assessing the global market for them, the TRANSFORMATIONAL
competition analysis, product attributes and marketing strategies GROWTH
etc. In effect, there will be a dozen comprehensive plans for chosen (Exponentially Planned)
products offering maximum export revenue and an overall plan that (45,000 crores by 2025)
brings competency to the whole Indian Organic sector.
15
5% of Conventional Exports in 2025. Projections done using CAGR of last few years.
43
Here, after studying the international market, we determine a share we wish to aggressively
accomplish for the chosen products and go about putting in place plans to achieve these numbers.
This requires serious unrelenting commitment of business strategy, professionalism and global-
level swift policy making.
In this RTG plan, the target is estimated at Rs. 45, 000 crores . This figure was computed by adding
up projections of individual products at 4- 5% of the Indian conventional exports. Most exporters

felt that India has an inherent advantage in conventional exports and this advantage can be
translated to organic.
RTG's figure of Rs.45,000 crores is about 3% share of the world market. At this level the Indian
organic sector will now have a critical mass.
This critical mass will make India Organic sustainable and competent to take a 'competitive
position' as a serious player in the international market. But it would require very high level of
commitment of putting in whatever effort and resources required to achieve a set target .
An integral part of this strategy is to develop the domestic market for organic foods through
lucrative incentives for farmers to go Organic and all the necessary technical assistance in addition
to increase awareness and usage, making India among the top Organic using nations.
The sector a whole has to be grown generically at a primary level. The thinking has to transcend to a
new pace and plane. India needs a critical threshold if it has to operate sustainably and with
"strategic competitive advantage" in the long term.
The way to go about in this approach is to work backwards from the figure determined for each
category and find out how to achieve it. This process can be outlined in steps as under:
a) Determine volume targets for products to be exported by individual category as well as for
domestic consumption
b) From the volumes above, determine sales/share targets for individual/country markets
c) From the Volumes in 1 above , determine India's own supply and farm production plans
d) Determine the number of farm acreage by crops and even the varieties (thus planning farm
clusters and processing hubs)
e) Roll out plan for the next 5-10 years by components.
Some of the preliminary projections given in the table above may appear to be high. In a few
individual categories e.g. Darjeeling tea, it is quite likely the target may have to be stepped up to
10% of conventional.
For a large country like India taking a 3% global share is a right beginning, and the RTG approach shall
enable this. This is the most recommended approach.
44
2. Impact on Farmers
Farmer will be the ultimate beneficiary in the process of the govt.
Five million farmers
integrating the farmer with these market-led growth plans. Historically the
and six million ha
farm sector has prospered only when the farmers have become an integral
can benefit from
part of the market-linked value chains. This vision can ensure that there is
Organic farming
someone continuously buying farmer's Organic produce at a premium price,

thus driving the economy bottom-up as well as top-down.
We have examples from the past, wherein product such as tobacco, tea, coffee, seeds, sugar, PDS procured
Grains etc., which have ushered in farm stability and prosperity. An integrated value chain from farmer to
the consumer which enabled commitment of purchase and price stability was a distinctive characteristic
in the marketing of these products. This kind of integration has not been available to other commodities
and led to uncertainty and chaos in the farm economy due to vagaries of the APMCs (market yards).
Unless the market targets are significant , impact at the farm level can not be felt in a large country like
India. Similarly, if the farmers are encouraged to produce large quantities without them being made a
part of a market-led supply plan and a value chain, they are unlikely to find buyers who will buy their
produce at the right price.
Considering both export and domestic market projections, the following is likely to be the impact at
farmer level:
About 6.3 million ha with 5.3 Million Ha rain-fed & 1 million ha irrigated land will be included
in the organic value chain under these projections. (current organic cultivation is around
100,000 ha)
Approximately 5 million farmers will be benefited. Increased incomes, food security and farm
prosperity will ensue
Given the fact cattle are integral to organic farming, bringing "the cow" back into the farm
household will broad base their enterprise
Taking the example of Rice, to illustrate farm level impact, the number projected here of Rs.8000 crores
translates to only about 500,000 ha - a miniscule fraction of national rice area 44 m.ha. If India is serious
about organic farming, RTG target is also quite small.
While this plan is focused on providing a larger vision to achieving a value target, eventually the same
growth platform must be used to convert at least 2% to 3% of national acreage into organic farming.
It is however important to note that creating market demand precedes expanding farm supply which is
being spoken of.
We can draw a lesson from parallel models like Hy. Rice penetration in understanding the dynamics of
diffusion of organic farm technology. While it took about 10 years to reach 3 % of total rice acres in India,
in the case of China, hybrid rice reached over 30 % to 40% in a similar time frame.
China used RTG model and converted over 70% of all rice to hybrid whereas in India it is still 5% using the
CAG model though nearly 20 yrs have passed.
45
3. Domestic Market
Domestic Market can
India Domestic Organic Market Projections
reach Rs.25,000
( In Rs. Crore)
crores
45000
25000 mark by 2025.
40000

(Overall Indian food
35000
C. Professional Comprehensive
and grocery market is
30000
Promotion & Advertising the world's sixth largest-
25000
B. Gen.Promotion Aided Step - Up projected to grow at the
20000
A. Natural Growth rate of 104 per cent,
15000 4330 touching US$ 482 billion
10000 10339
by 2020-IBEF).
5000
2785 4644
750 0 1866
750
Year. 2015 2020 2025
Research shows there is high demand for the Organic product, but
Need For National
unfortunately very low awareness. Organic category as a whole needs to
Organic Category
be promoted and consumers made to see Organic products in association
Promotion Budget
with their sorely felt requirements for healthy foods. The individual
brands operating locally are and will be unable to grow, in absence of
Make Organic
promotional budgets, unless they find themselves in an 'Organic-aware
Aware Nation
nation'. The brands will grow at a steady pace, but the impact would be
radically enhanced if the Government invests in promotion.
This is the task the government should undertake since Organic-awareness will lead to Organic-
readiness for business, thereby promoting its own national India Organic brand and also subsidize the
other brands thus operating symbiotically. National-level awareness on Organic will also motivate the
farmers and give them a sense of pride in growing Organic products. They will feel they are a part of the
premium consumer movement in the urban India as against being left out in rural anonymity.
The campaign promoting "India Organic" may be managed by the Industry association- AIOI overseen
by GOI. National Brand promotion requires an annual budget. Successful brands spend 12% of projected
sales in first year to develop a new category in a five year plan. We are projecting Indian market will
reach between Rs. 20,000 to Rs. 25,000 crores, this is a necessary investment that the Nation will
benefit from. The entire supply chain from farmer to consumer will continue to reap the benefit from the
India Organic Promotion campaign for years to come.
4. Game Changers for India Organic
01. Make in India: Landmark change can be brought about and Organic revolution in India expedited
by encouraging Global Organic companies to set up India processing base for which Indian
companies and farmers can become suppliers initially, making it a win-win for all. This can
increase. Indian Organic farm area manyfolds. The basis for setting up these would be (1) Strong
regulation & clear quality environment (2) Providing an international Organic ecosystem via a food
park or similar system (3) Giving access to Indian domestic market to incentivize.
46
02. India Soil Carbon mandate: Indian Organic soil content is dismal, the green revolution and cheap
fertilizer chemical availability being the prime reasons. Fertilizer companies enjoying subsidy need
to be made partners in reviving soil health. Therefore, India needs to adopt India Soil Carbon
mandate, like the E2/ E5 and B10 biofuel mandates to the gigantic fertilizer companies, to make
available Organic manures/inputs as a percentage of their turnover/ subsidy and convert a given
acreage to organic in a year. Fertilizer companies have the logistic infrastructure available to handle
the huge quantities of organic matter required and make it available to the farmers.
Organic inputs are scarce and more of a cottage industry in India, making such mandate will enable
aggressive and structured availability of inputs. Mandates need to be ramped up every three years
(say starting from 0.5%). The same will take a century if left to the cottage industry. Rs.3400 crores
annual effort by organized agriculture companies can happen by a stroke of the pen/single policy if
5% of the fertilizer subsidy bill of 68,000 crores is mandated to making organic acres.
03. Developing Organic Hubs: Organic hubs of minimum sizes will help integrate the dissipated and
dispersed Organic acreages into manageable concentrated pockets. All needed support
infrastructure can easily be provided both at farmer as well as output/processing ends, to achieve
economies of scale and efficiency needed to compete on global standards. States governments and
organic companies can work in these hubs primarily.
Develop a Comprehensive National Organic Strategy and Implementation Plan for each category on
the lines of typical business plan of a multinational, adapted to a country, outlining:
a) Markets by Product Groups
b) Market Targets in each
c) Share and Volume Objectives & Profitability Goals
d) Strategies to achieve the above
e) Processing Infrastructure required
f) Value added products and technologies to be developed
g) Farm Supply, Acreages and location
h) Incentives, training, extension, inputs, support and farm plans
5. Other Elements required for Organic Vision 2025
01. Promote one certification standard which is simple and credible. Customers whether in India or
abroad expect Organic products to be free of pesticides, harmful chemicals and GMO's, follow high
food safety standards are produced in a sustainable manner and are fair to the farmers. Having
multiple standards can cause confusion, ultimately affecting the farmers and wasting of valuable
financial and human resources.
02. Skill India: Training of rural youth in Organic farming under skill India mission. AIOI is willing to take
up the responsibility of implementing this.
03. Financial support to farmers: Organic farmers receive limited subsidy and support or support.
Amount equivalent to fertilizer subsidy should be given to organic farmers to generate on farm
organic inputs, purchase bio fertilizers, bio pesticides, certification and other cultivation tools. This
could be done through JAM mechanism.
04. Technology Mission for Organic Agriculture: The current efforts of research through the wide
network of Institutions are weak and ineffective. ICAR should create a separate division headed by
47
Deputy Director General to develop appropriate technology including varieties, agronomy, plant
protection and post harvest technologies. The funds to go into actual research and not R&D infra
which is more than required. R& D should be monitored by user bodies.
05. Organic Food Parks: Organic requires specialized storage and processing infrastructure so that the
produce is not contaminated. Given that the industry is at a nascent stage, having decentralized
primary storage & processing parks at district level and a few central Organic Food processing
parks will help in achieving the goals. Liberal grants will help in this regard. The Association
through its members will be willing to form Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs) for this. To start with

one immediately for North East Region at a central place may be formed.
06. Create Organic Farming zones in various states and the state governments should be encouraged
to implement a model policy in terms of providing, extension, infrastructure and financial support
to the farmers.
07. Testing & Monitoring infrastructure: There is a need to create 2 or 3 labs which can be of
international standards on PPP mode and a regular testing and monitoring mechanism for organic
produce to maintain the quality levels.
08. Organic Certification & Promotion Board: This could comprise of senior officials from various
related ministries, representatives of the industry and farmers' associations. The board could be
tasked with the mandate to develop and promote organic in the country.
6. Conclusion
The International organic market is quite big and consumer demand is growing for health and wellness
foods. The World Organic food market is USD 90 billion today and will grow manyfold to USD 230-280
billion by 2025 thus becoming increasingly mainstream. The packaged food category will reach about
USD 70 billion by 2025. The Indian organic sector, driven primarily by exports, is estimated at 415
Million USD which does not comprise even 0.5% of the global business. Though domestic organic market
in India is nascent, there is a mature and developed market for packaged products and increasing
demand for healthy foods.
The Indian organic sector has developed the ecosystem which can catapult India into a global player
provided a concerted effort , wide vision and support of the government provides a common umbrella
for the currently small value chains/ robust companies to make a bid for these lucrative markets.
India needs to plan aggressively to reach threshold levels for the business to be sustainable. This
document provides alternative scenarios that will unfold depending on the pathway the country adopts.
If there is no radical transformational intervention in the sector, India can at best reach about Rs.
8000 crores in exports and a domestic turnover of Rs. 3000 crores in the domestic market by 2025.
But should India take the gauntlet and decide to transform itself and become a meaningful player
in the organic business, the sector turnover can reach between Rs.50,000 to Rs.75,000 crores
including domestic and exports by 2025. Even this target will prove small if the nation decides to
target conversion of 2% of the national acreage into organic.
Farmer will be the ultimate beneficiary in the process of setting this vision. Historically, the farm sector
has prospered only when the farmers have become an integral part of a market-linked value chain. This
vision can ensure that there is someone continuously buying farmer's Organic produce at a premium
price, thus driving the economy bottom-up as well as top-down.
48
Annexure 1
1. During the survey the following individual products were listed as having good potential/
opportunity areas for exports from India. The focus products mentioned above were shortlisted from
these.
Top India Stars Stars Emerging /Potential Stars

Nominated by highest number Next cluster Other Cluster
1. Tea All types 1. Cotton based products 1. Dust Tea
2. Spices Category 2. Cumin 2. Herbal tea
3. Rice-all/speciality 3. Edible Oil 3. Hill Millets

4. Sugar 4. Oil Seeds 4. Maize
5. Basmati rice 5. Snacks 5. Marine products
6. Soybean & products 6. Honey 6. Oleoresins
7. Pulses- 7. Herbal extracts 7. Organic Flour
8. Medicinal Plants 8. Spices extracts 8. Packaged Products
9. Cereals 9. Beverages & drinks 9. Processed Specialty Products
10. Coffee 10. Cashew 10. Soya meal
11. Fruits fresh and processed 11. Cosmetic/Spa 11. Specialty rice
12. Dry fruits 12. Mango 12. Green Tea
13. Pepper 13. Millets processed 13. Black Tea
14. Turmeric 14. Green tea 14. Clove
15. Chilli 15. Ayurvedic products 15. Darjeeling Tea
16. Condiments 16. Branded Products 16. Desi Cow Ghee
17. Ready to Eat 17. Breakfast cereals 17. Flavored Tea
18. Ginger 18. Brown Sugar 18. Food Ingredients//Flavours
19. Fresh & Processed vegetables 19. Coriander 19. Nutraceutical products
20. Baby Food 20. Dehydrated Vegetables 20. Tea - Flavoured
49
Annexure 2
Snapshot of key products
Category: Rice Top Ten- 1
Key production states Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Jammu & Kashmir, Andhra Pradesh, Haryana
Key production areas/ clusters Northern Belt, Andhra Pradesh
Export statistics (2014-15) 19,965 MT
Top Destination countries 1. EU

(by volume)
2. USA
3. Switzerland
4. Australia

5. Israel
Present export categories Basmati Rice: Brown traditional, Organic white Traditional, Brown, white pusa, Brown Pusa etc
(as per HS codes) Non basmati: Brown fast cooking, Broken, parboiled, Tarai, Red rice etc
Top sub categories (from survey) Basmati, Sona-masuri
Responses from Industry Key Enabler:

Largest basmati producer, lot of varieties
Hurdles:
Competition from countries like Thailand, Pakistan: Thai rice & other aromatic rice.
Consistent supply is a issue which leads to creating a gap in market which other like
Thai rice fills in.
Things to be done:
Strong promotion & building up brands image like Quinoa & Chia seeds: collective
branding of basmati and non-basmati rice
Stringent checks before dispatch to keep a check on pesticide residue, in turn, reduces
the rejection.
Category: Tea Top Ten- 2

Key production states Assam, Kerela, West bengal, Karnataka, Uttarakahnd, Chennai, Meghalaya, Tripura
Key production areas/ clusters North-east, southern region,
1. EU,
Top Destination countries
(by volume) 2. USA
3. Japan
4. Australia
5. China
Present export categories

Darjeeling tea, Tea leaves, Black tea, Green tea, CTC tea, Specialty tea-oolong
(as per HS codes)
Top sub categories (from survey) Herbal tea, green tea, black tea, Darjeeling tea, flavor tea

India is largest tea producer with number of varieties like Darjeeling, nilgiri and other
premium quality.
Hurdles:
High cost of production as yield issues and labor intensive.
Tracenet is time consuming and not so user friendly
Things to be done:
Quality lab for analytical testing of products.
APEDA + Tea board should extensively promote the category by participation into trade
fair, Bio Fach etc.
50
Category: Processed foods & Ingredients Top Ten- 3

Key production states
1. EU
(by volume) 2. USA
3. Canada
4. Switzerland
5. New Zealand
Present export categories Flour ( Rice, Wheat, Maize, Soybean, Bajra, Bengal gram, Black gram, Buckwheat, White rice),
(as per HS codes) Pulp & Puree ( Alphonso, Totapuri, Kesar, Papaya, Rajapari), Soybean (meal, roasted, lecithin),
Wheat bran, rice syrup, Extract (Annatto, Guava, Pomogranate), Sauce (Chili, Tomato),
Dehydrated Manhgo and Frozen mango, Ginger (Granules & candy), Pea powder, ready to eat
rice, flattened rice, roasted chicory, Onion granules
Top sub categories RTE, Frozen food, Indian frozen cuisine, snacks

Growing demand for processed and packaged food category along with convenience
factor.
India can provide gluten free ingredients
Hurdles:
Indian food industry needs to adopt international standards to handle the growing
competition.
High input cost for industry such as power requirement for frozen food segment.
Things to be done:
Need to develop market linkages and common processing facilities
Category: Spices & Condiments Top Ten- 4

Key production states Karnataka, Kerela, Madhya pradesh, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Odisha, Gujarat,
Uttarakhand
1. EU
(by volume) 2. USA
3. Canada
4. Switzerland
5. New Zealand
Present export categories Ajwain, Turmeric, Amla Powder, Cumin Powder, Cumin, Ginger TBC, Black Pepper, Fenugreek,
(as per HS codes) Nutmeg, clove etc
Top sub categories (from survey) Black Pepper, Turmeric, Chili Powder, Cumin

India is the origin of spices, blessed with huge species reserves and varieties.
Hurdles:
Lack of proper infrastructure facilities for proper storage, drying for spices.
Highly competitive market esp from china, Vietnam, Spain, turkey.
Things to be done:
Marketing effort to promote spices in international market promoting brand such as
Malabar, Waynad, Coorg etc.
Improvement in intrinsic and extrinsic quality of the spice Farmer support to cover
production/price risk based on Indian standards
51
Category: Soybean(Oilseed) Top Ten- 5

Key production states Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Uttarakhand, Gujarat
Key production areas Central India
Export statistics (2014-15) 1,46,070 MT
Top Destination countries 1. USA

(by volume)
2. Canada
3. EU
4. Switzerland
5. Malaysia

Top sub categories (from survey) Soybean: white, whole, soyabean, seed
Top sub categories Soymeal, soyabean, soy

There is a huge demand in international market and Indian soya has high protein
content.
Hurdles:
Normally, Low yield when produced organically, high cost of production
Things to be done:
There is a high premium for the organic soya in the market, need to go for soya based
value added products.
Category: Sugar Top Ten- 6
Key production states Karnataka, Maharashtra, Uttarakhand, Gujarat

(by volume)
2. USA
3. New Zealand
4. Israel
5. Croatia
Present export categories Sugar, Cane Sugar, Palmyra Sugar, Sugar White Cane
(as per HS codes)
Top sub categories Sugar

(from survey Q-3)

Well organized sector with huge production base and best available technology as
India ranks 2nd in global sugar production.
Hurdles:
Standards should be set up local market.
There is a supply constraint at times.
Things to be done:
APEDA should negotiate with EU to re-export product back to EU after import of EU
certified products.
Standard should be high to target EU market.
52
Category: Pulses and Lentils Top Ten- 7

Key production states Karnataka, Kerela, Madhya pradesh, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Odisha, Gujarat, Uttarakhand
Key production areas Central India, Western ghats, Garhwal

(by volume)
2. Canada
3. EU
4. Singapore
5. UAE
Present export categories Arhar dal, Split pigeon Pea, Toor dal, Black gram, Urad dhuli, Green gram, Red Kidney bean,
(as per HS codes) Chick pea, Lentil, Cow pea red
Top sub categories Toor dal, Chick pea, Rajma

(from survey Q-3)

Pulses and lentils is rich in protein content, gluten free and can be a major ingredient
for various products.
Hurdles:
Rising cost of production and unavailability of proper infrastructure for storage and
handling.
Awareness level about pulses and lentils is limited to a section of society.
Things to be done:
Targeting Asian Diaspora in EU and USA ,market.
Dedicated branding, promotion and participation in Expos.
Category: Oilseed & Crops (except soybean) Top Ten- 8

Key production states Maharashtra, rajasthan Gujarat, Uttarakhand
Key production areas Vidharbha, Saurashtra, Garhwal
(by volume)
2. USA
3. Switzerland
4. Canada
5. Israel
Present export categories Flaxseed, linseed, Hulled Sesame, Natural Sesame, Mustard Oil (Crude & Refined), Safflower
(as per HS codes)
Top sub categories (from survey Q) Flax seed, Mustard, Safflower, Sunflower, Sesame,

Availability of key oilseed cash crop and comparatively less competitive market.
India Oilseeds have high content of protein and oil.
Hurdles:
Market is not very regularized
Post harvest technology as well as handling of product at farm level.
Things to be done.
Flaxseed, Linseed, Safflower oil need to be branded and promote in EU and US markets
53
Category: Fruits & Fruit products Top Ten- 9

Key production states Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Odisha
Export statistics (2014-15) 124 MT

(by volume)
2. USA
3. Australia
Present export categories Totapuri Mangoes, Guavas Fresh, Mango Kernel, pomegranate arils
(as per HS codes)

Top sub categories Mango, Guava, Papaya
(from survey Q-3)

One of the world's largest fruit producing nations with wide varieties of fruits.
Bestowed with lot of potential to produce varieties of fruits.
Hurdles:
Farmer is not aware about proper handling of the product as well as there is a poor
market linkage due to perishable nature of the product.
Value added products are limited to pulps.
Things to be done:
Training should be imparted from the farm level about: sorting , grading and basic
handling of the products.
Category: Dry Fruits Top Ten- 10

Key production states HP (Almond), Maharashtra, Kerela and Karnataka (Cashew nut), Karnataka (Pea nut),
J & K (Walnut)

(by volume)
2. EU
3. Canada
4. Japan
5. Australia
Present export categories Almond: Shelled , Kernel ; Cashew Kernels: Shell Broken, Shell Whole, W240, W320, LWP, NW,
(as per HS codes) split, whole, Roasted , salted; Walnut: Kernels & Shelled
Top sub categories (from survey) Cashew, Almond, raisins, walnut

Huge base for raw and processed dry fruits. Large number of varieties such as cashew,
walnut, almonds etc.
Hurdles:
Basic infrastructural support is not available to farmers.
Things to be done:
Focus promotion of dry fruits with high nutritive value.
Incentivize the farmers and should work on reduction of pre & post harvest losses
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Identifying India Organic Food Export Priorities

YEAR January, 2016

AUTHORS YES BANK, Ingenus Strategy and Creative Research

YES BANK Ltd.

Mr. Krishan Kumar

Mr. Rajashekar Reddy Seelam

Indian Organic Sector: Vision 2025

VSK Kishore Rao Gopinath Koneti Nitin Puri

Ministry of Commerce - Mr. Santosh Sarangi, Jt. Secretary, Ministry of Commerce

Indian Organic Sector: Vision 2025

India Organic Food Sector Overview

Domestic Food Exports,

Currently the Indian Organic food sector is primarily driven by Exports

Indian Organic Sector: Vision 2025

made. Other stakeholders in the value chain like certification bodies,

present interim findings and analyze top issues identified. recommendations.

2. Organic Companies Views and Perceptions on Top Issues: Survey

e. The Indian certif ication

Indian Organic Sector: Vision 2025

f. Most exporters think that Government/APEDA policy intent-support has made a

without considerable or total government support.

l. Food testing infrastructure and technology as well as credible testing acceptable to

3. The Global Market Opportunity for Organic Foods

Source: Organic World 2015

Indian Organic Sector: Vision 2025

03. Europe and North America together

Category- Packaged Food Estimated Category- Beverages Estimated

Dairy 7,500 Fruit/Vegetable Juice 1500

Country Estimated size of Estimated size of organic Estimated total Share %

Indian Organic Sector: Vision 2025

07. In terms of overall per capita

Switzerland, Denmark and 212 204

4. A snapshot of individual global top markets

Market Overview: Germany

Indian Organic Sector: Vision 2025

Market Overview: Italy

Market Overview: Denmark

Market Overview: Spain

07. United Kingdom:

Indian Organic Sector: Vision 2025

Market Overview: Switzerland

Market Overview: Canada

Market Overview: Japan

Market Overview: Australia

12. South Korea:

Market Overview: South Korea

Indian Organic Sector: Vision 2025

5. Snapshot of Indian Organic Sector

State Farm (MT) Wild (MT) Total (MT) Share

Sugar Crops 338193 30.9%

Export Category Quantity MT Major destinations

Indian Organic Sector: Vision 2025

6. Supply Chain issues in Organic sector

h) Conventional processing technologies need to be redefined for organic produce. As existing

7. Human Resources issues in Organic sector

Indian Organic Sector: Vision 2025

Promotion & Branding of Organic Foods Internationally - Trends & Insights

Susan Dunn, executive vice president, Global Professional Services, Nielsen

2. Additional dimensions to Organic positioning: The organic certification of products highlights