AYUSH Gains International Recognition
India Expands Global Footprint of AYUSH Through Trade Agreements: India’s traditional healthcare systems have received a major global push with the formal recognition of the AYUSH system in recent bilateral trade agreements. These agreements were finalised with Oman and New Zealand in December 2025. The move signals growing international confidence in India’s traditional medicine ecosystem.
The inclusion of AYUSH reflects India’s efforts to integrate traditional healthcare into global trade and wellness frameworks. It also highlights the rising demand for natural and holistic health solutions worldwide.
Static GK fact: India is one of the few countries with a dedicated ministry for traditional medicine, known as the Ministry of AYUSH.
Inclusion of Health Annexures in Trade Deals
The trade agreements include dedicated health-related annexures. These annexures provide formal space for cooperation in traditional medicine and wellness services. Such recognition helps address regulatory uncertainties faced by exporters.
Traditional systems such as Ayurveda, Unani, Siddha, and Homoeopathy are now explicitly acknowledged. This offers clarity for cross-border movement of products and services linked to AYUSH.
The agreements also encourage smoother collaboration between regulatory authorities of partner countries.
Strategic Importance of AYUSH Recognition
AYUSH systems represent India’s ancient medical knowledge and cultural heritage. Formal recognition in trade agreements enhances their global legitimacy. It improves access to regulated overseas healthcare and wellness markets.
This move supports India’s broader health diplomacy strategy. Traditional medicine is increasingly seen as a soft power tool in international relations.
Static GK Tip: Health diplomacy combines public health initiatives with foreign policy objectives to strengthen international cooperation.
Boost to Indian Exporters and Industry
Recognition of AYUSH helps Indian exporters navigate foreign regulatory systems more efficiently. It reduces non-tariff barriers related to certification and compliance. This is particularly important for herbal medicines and wellness services.
The agreements also open avenues for joint research, education, and wellness tourism. Indian institutions can collaborate with overseas partners in training and clinical practices.
Such developments strengthen India’s position in the global traditional medicine value chain.
Rising Exports of AYUSH Products
India’s AYUSH and herbal product exports have shown steady growth. Exports increased by 6.11 per cent in 2024–25. The value rose from USD 649.2 million in 2023–24 to USD 688.89 million in 2024–25.
This growth reflects increasing consumer preference for natural and preventive healthcare. Trade agreements with health provisions are expected to further accelerate export momentum.
Static GK fact: India is among the leading global suppliers of herbal raw materials and plant-based medicinal formulations.
Understanding the AYUSH System
AYUSH stands for Ayurveda, Yoga, Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homoeopathy. These systems focus on preventive care and holistic well-being. They combine lifestyle practices, herbal medicines, and therapeutic procedures.
India actively promotes AYUSH through international cooperation, training programmes, and institutional partnerships. Export promotion remains a key policy focus.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
India Expands Global Footprint of AYUSH Through Trade Agreements:
| Topic | Detail |
| Why in News | AYUSH recognised in bilateral trade agreements |
| Partner Countries | Oman and New Zealand |
| Year of Agreement | December 2025 |
| Export Growth Rate | 6.11 per cent in 2024–25 |
| Export Value | USD 688.89 million |
| Key Feature | Health-related annexures in trade pacts |
| Strategic Significance | Boost to health diplomacy and exports |
