Cabinet Approves Agreement Between India and Bhutan to Boost Food Safety Measures

GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 14th March. The Union Cabinet, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has given its nod to the signing of an Agreement between the Bhutan Food and Drug Authority (BFDA) and the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI).

The agreement, inked between the BFDA, Ministry of Health, Royal Government of Bhutan, and FSSAI, Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Government of India, is poised to pave the way for greater cooperation in the crucial realm of food safety.

Key highlights of the agreement include:

1. Trade Facilitation: By streamlining protocols and ensuring adherence to standardized food safety regulations, the agreement is poised to bolster trade activities between the two neighboring nations.

2. Health Certification: BFDA will play a pivotal role in issuing Health Certificates, validating compliance with the stringent standards prescribed by FSSAI, particularly for products destined for the Indian market. This move is expected to bolster transparency and instill confidence among consumers regarding the quality and safety of imported food items.

3. Ease of Doing Business: The collaborative efforts envisaged under the agreement are geared towards fostering an environment conducive to business growth, thereby promoting the Ease of Doing Business agenda. By harmonizing regulatory frameworks and reducing compliance costs, both India and Bhutan stand to benefit from enhanced economic cooperation.

The approval of this landmark agreement underscores the shared commitment of India and Bhutan towards promoting food safety standards and facilitating seamless trade relations.

As the global community grapples with evolving challenges in the realm of food safety, this bilateral initiative serves as a testament to the proactive measures undertaken by both nations to safeguard public health and promote sustainable development.