New Delhi, Aug 25 - Commerce Minister Anand Sharma Tuesday asked Indian envoys at various missions to remain on guard over protectionism, even as he urged for a renewed focus on Africa and Latin America to push India's merchandise exports.

'We have noticed the disturbing trend of the growing tendency of protectionism amongst countries of the West,' Sharma told a meeting here with the heads of Indian missions in various countries.

'It is my firm belief such measures are delaying economic recovery and prolonging recession. It is a time in which leadership will be tested to break down barriers and not to erect new ones,' he said.

He also said some European countries were imposing non-tariff barriers to trade even as Indian consignments of pharmaceuticals bound for Africa were repeatedly held up in the EU. This apart, the US was putting in place 'buy America' provisions.

'I will urge our missions to remain vigilant to such trends to enable us to prepare an effective response.