The AYUSH Export Promotion Council (AEPC) is a new initiative that the Ministry of Commerce and Industry along with the AYUSH Ministry are planning to establish. This proposed council aims to enhance the export of AYUSH products, which include traditional systems of medicine such as Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy. The AEPC is expected to operate from within the AYUSH Ministry’s infrastructure. In addition to setting up the AEPC, both ministries are working on fast-tracking the standardization of the Harmonized System (HS) code for AYUSH products and developing standards in partnership with the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS).
Objective of the AYUSH Export Promotion Council
The primary objective of the AEPC is to promote the global reach of AYUSH products by facilitating their exports. By doing so, the council aims to make these traditional Indian medicinal systems accessible to international markets. The AEPC is expected to play a pivotal role in identifying new markets, ensuring compliance with international regulations, and enhancing the overall competitiveness of AYUSH products globally.
Role of AYUSH Ministry in AEPC
The AYUSH Ministry will house the AEPC and provide it with the necessary support and resources to function effectively. The ministry, which is responsible for developing education and research in the field of alternative medicines, will also work towards ensuring that the quality of exported products meets international standards. The collaboration between the AEPC and the AYUSH Ministry is anticipated to bring synergy in policy-making and implementation of strategies for the growth of AYUSH exports.
Collaboration with the Ministry of Commerce and Industry
The Ministry of Commerce and Industry plays a crucial role in the establishment and functioning of the AEPC. It brings to the table expertise in international trade, market access issues, and export promotion strategies. This ministry’s involvement is critical in navigating the complex landscape of global trade and establishing India as a trusted source of high-quality AYUSH products.
Standardization of HS Code for AYUSH Products
One of the key initiatives alongside the formation of the AEPC is the expedited standardization of the HS code for AYUSH products. The HS code is an internationally standardized system of names and numbers for classifying traded products. Having a dedicated HS code for AYUSH products will simplify the process of export documentation and customs procedures. It will also help in the accurate collection of trade data, which is essential for formulating informed trade policies.
Development of Standards with BIS
The development of standards is another significant aspect of the AEPC’s mandate. The ministries are collaborating with the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) to develop and implement quality benchmarks for AYUSH products. This collaboration is aimed at ensuring that the products meet both national and international quality criteria, thereby instilling confidence in global consumers and stakeholders.
Impact on the AYUSH Industry
The establishment of the AEPC and the accompanying measures are expected to have a substantial impact on the AYUSH industry. By streamlining processes and establishing clear standards, the industry will likely see an increase in efficiency and productivity. Moreover, with improved quality and compliance, Indian AYUSH products can become more competitive in the global market, potentially leading to increased demand and higher export volumes.
In summary, the AYUSH Export Promotion Council represents a strategic move by the Indian government to advance the country’s position as a leader in traditional and alternative medicine on the international stage. Through the combined efforts of the AYUSH Ministry, the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, and BIS, the AEPC is set to play a transformative role in the growth and global acceptance of AYUSH products.
