A Pesticide Predicament As EU Alerts Surge in Indian Rice Shipments

In the intricate world of rice exports, a storm is brewing as the European Union (EU) issues many alerts regarding pesticide residues in rice shipments from India. These alerts, managed under the Rapid Alert System for Food and Feed (RASFF), witnessed a substantial surge from 9 in 2021 to 30 in 2022. The trend continued in 2023, with 23 alerts registered until September. This escalation is a cause for concern as it has contributed to declining rice exports to the EU and other regions, including Gulf nations.

Notably, the presence of pesticide residues in rice consignments has become a significant deterrent. These findings come to light amidst the evolving rice-export landscape, emphasizing the need for precaution and reform. One remarkable aspect of this year’s results is the absence of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in Indian rice shipments, compared to a single alert in the previous year. The detection of GMOs had previously stirred controversy and discussions between the EU and India.

However, it is critical to note that the alarming increase in pesticide-related alerts poses a considerable challenge. Over the last two years, the presence of pesticides in rice shipments to the EU has risen, causing apprehension in the industry. India’s consignments faced alerts for 42 distinct pesticides, with 17 linked to tricyclazole and 14 to thiamethoxam. Tricyclazole, often associated with potential harm to the liver and other human organs, is deployed to combat rice blast. In contrast, thiamethoxam, with adverse effects on the liver and reproduction, is used to combat insects.

On a positive note, the percentage of critical pesticide residue detection has decreased since 2021, offering a glimmer of hope. For instance, the detection level of tricyclazole has reduced from 10.69% in 2021 to 2.68% this year, and thiamethoxam levels have dropped from 9.07% to 1.53% during the same period. The detection of other crucial pesticides, including diphenylamine, chlorpyrifos, imidacloprid, and more, has exhibited similar declines.

However, rice experts advise caution, emphasizing the need for policy intervention to address this issue. India has already suffered a loss of nearly 2 million tonnes of basmati rice in the European market due to pesticide residue concerns. In comparison, South Indian rice exports have decreased by 25,000 tonnes. To regain lost ground, a comprehensive and robust testing regime is essential, alongside proactive measures in ongoing free trade agreement negotiations with the EU and the UK.In conclusion, the surge in EU alerts regarding pesticide residues in Indian rice shipments raises substantial concerns.

This trend has contributed to declining rice exports to the EU and other regions, creating a need for proactive measures. While GMO-related alerts have decreased, pesticide-related signs require attention. Although there is a positive reduction in pesticide residue detection, the industry must exercise caution. Addressing this issue through policy interventions is crucial to regain lost market share.

Import/Export Statistics

Please click to reach our marketplace