The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has appealed to customs authorities to streamline the clearance process for imported plastic packaging. This notice was issued on May 13, 2024.
The Plastic Waste Management (PWM) Rules mandate importers of plastic packaging to register on a centralized EPR Portal. This registration demonstrates their commitment to extended producer responsibility (EPR) for plastic waste management.
Earlier, concerns arose regarding the validity period of EPR certificates for importers. This led to delays in clearing imported plastic packaging consignments at customs.
Amendments to the PWM Rules in April 2023 established a one-time registration process for importers (along with producers and brand owners). The CPCB clarified in August 2023 that these registrations do not require renewal.
Request to Customs:
- CPCB is urging customs authorities to consider existing EPR certificates for importers, even if they mention a one-year validity period.
- These certificates should be recognized as valid one-time registrations under the amended rules.
- Additionally, the status of any importer’s registration can be verified on the CPCB’s EPR Plastic Portal.
