Guntur: Sri Lankan authorities have reportedly rejected chilli consignments exported from Guntur, citing concerns over high levels of aflatoxins and excessive moisture content.
The development has raised concerns among chilli exporters and farmers in Andhra Pradesh, as Guntur is the state’s major centre for chilli trade and exports. Chilli brought by farmers to the Guntur market yard is exported to other countries.
Earlier in June, China had rejected chilli consignments from three Indian exporters over quality concerns. Now, Sri Lankan authorities have reportedly directed the return of several containers of chilli consignments.
Exporters who travelled to Sri Lanka are holding discussions with the authorities to resolve the issue. Sri Lankan standards authorities have reportedly tightened quality requirements amid growing awareness about food safety and health.
According to exporters, samples of chilli consignments sent from Andhra Pradesh through Chennai port to Sri Lanka are being tested in laboratories. Notices have reportedly been issued to exporters over concerns about elevated levels of aflatoxins and moisture content.
Excessive moisture can lead to fungal growth, which may result in consignments being rejected on food safety grounds.
The development has raised concerns among chilli farmers and traders in Guntur, with exporters worried that stricter quality standards in international markets could affect shipments from the region. The issue is also likely to have an impact on the Guntur chilli market and exports, depending on how the quality concerns are resolved.
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