India’s traditional systems of medicine, collectively known as AYUSH, have received formal recognition in bilateral trade agreements with Oman and New Zealand, the Commerce Ministry announced.
This move signals a growing international acceptance of alternative and traditional healthcare practices.
The recognition comes through annexures on health-related services and traditional medicine included in the India–Oman Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) and the India–New Zealand Free Trade Agreement (FTA), both finalised in December 2025.
WHY THIS MATTERS FOR AYUSH
For the Ministry of AYUSH, this development puts India’s traditional medicine framework, which includes Ayurveda, Yoga, Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha and Homoeopathy, firmly on the international radar.
Until now, AYUSH systems have faced regulatory barriers, limited market access and a lack of formal acknowledgment in global trade frameworks.
By being recognised within trade agreements, AYUSH services and products gain greater legitimacy, easier market entry and clearer regulatory pathways in partner countries.
This could help Indian practitioners, manufacturers and exporters expand their footprint abroad while also encouraging research collaboration and standardisation.
BOOST TO EXPORTS AND ECONOMIC GROWTH
The recognition comes at a time when AYUSH and herbal product exports are already on the rise. According to official data, exports grew by 6.11 per cent, increasing from $649.2 million in 2023–24 to $688.89 million in 2024–25.
The inclusion of traditional medicine in trade agreements could further accelerate this growth by reducing non-tariff barriers, improving mutual recognition of standards and boosting consumer confidence in overseas markets.
Globally, interest in traditional and complementary medicine has been increasing, driven by a focus on preventive care, wellness and integrative health approaches.
India’s move to embed AYUSH within formal trade frameworks reflects an effort to position its traditional knowledge systems alongside modern healthcare offerings.
For the Ministry of AYUSH, the agreements with Oman and New Zealand are likely to serve as a template for future trade negotiations, potentially opening doors for wider global acceptance of India’s traditional medicine systems.
– Ends
