India has been officially included in the list of countries authorized to export aquaculture products, eggs, honey and animal casings to the European Union beyond September 2026, according to the latest notification by the European Union. The European Commission has amended Regulation (EU) 2021/405 through Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2026/1189, introducing additional requirements for countries exporting certain animal-origin products to the EU amid growing concerns over antimicrobial resistance (AMR). The revised regulation will come into effect from September 2026 and lays down additional requirements for countries exporting specified animal-origin products to the European Union. India's inclusion on the authorized list ensures continuity of exports of these products to the European Union market beyond September 2026.
The development is particularly significant for the fisheries sector, with India's exports of fish and fishery products to the EU currently valued at about $1.59 billion. According to the government, India's inclusion under the amended European Union regulation is expected to facilitate continued market access for Indian exporters, support trade growth and create new opportunities across the concerned sectors. The Department of Commerce, along with the Export Inspection Council (EIC), had engaged with the European Commission on compliance with the revised requirements, with the commerce ministry confirming active engagement to address regulatory requirements and market access issues. The Department of Commerce's sustained efforts in close coordination with the EIC and other stakeholders played a major part in securing this clearance. The decision prevents a potential disruption to India's $1.59 billion fisheries trade with the EU and gives exporters clarity on compliance requirements under the amended regulatory framework.
The EIC has also strengthened inspection, testing and certification systems in line with EU regulations. The Department of Commerce, EIC and other stakeholders, including the Marine Products Export Development Authority (MPEDA), will work with EU-approved establishments and regulatory authorities to implement the new requirements, according to the government. This comprehensive approach ensures India maintains its competitive position in the EU market for these agricultural and fishery products, with the EIC having enhanced India's Official Control System through strengthened inspection, testing and certification mechanisms in line with European Union regulations. "The Department of Commerce, along with the Export Inspection Council and other stakeholders, will continue to work closely with EU-approved establishments and regulatory authorities to ensure smooth implementation of the regulatory requirements and maintain high standards of quality and food safety in export products," the ministry noted. The Government of India remains committed to promoting exports, strengthening institutional capacities and deepening economic cooperation with key trading partners, including the European Union.
