Quarantine Regulations For Apple Imports From Brazil
The Indian government has amended its Plant Quarantine (Regulation of Import into India) Order, 2003, with a third amendment specifically addressing apple imports from Brazil. This update introduces stricter phytosanitary requirements to prevent the introduction of harmful pests and diseases. This notification was issued on January 30, 2025.
Updated Quarantine Regulations For Dried Plum & Birch, Walnut and Cherry Wood
The Indian government has amended its Plant Quarantine (Regulation of Import into India) Order, 2003, with two separate amendments published in the Official Gazette. These changes introduce new regulations for the import of dried plums from France and wood from Canada.
Government Extends Free Import Policy for Tur Until March 31, 2026
Previously, under the Existing Policy, Tur/Pigeon Peas imports were allowed duty-free until March 31, 2025. Now, by the present notification, free import policy has now been extended for an additional year, until March 31, 2026.
FSSAI CEO Urges Increased Food Safety Inspections In Tamil Nadu
The CEO emphasized the need to prioritize inspections of establishments deemed to pose a higher risk to public health. He also discussed the progress of developing Healthy and Hygienic Food Streets across the state, urging officials to expedite the process so these public food hubs can open as soon as possible.
DGFT Amends Handbook of Procedures for Import of Tea, Spices, and Coconut Oil
The export obligation period for items covered by Chapter 9 of the Indian Trade Classification (Harmonised System) [ITC(HS)] and coconut oil has been extended from 90 days to 6 months from the date on which the first import consignment is cleared by Customs Authorities. The export obligation period for imported spices used for value addition (VA) purposes like crushing, grinding, sterilization, or the manufacture of oils and oleoresins of pepper, cardamom, and chillies has been extended from 120 days to 6 months from the date of importation of the first consignment.
FSSAI Notifies Format For Health Certificates For Import Of Food Products From Bhutan
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has notified the format of the health certificate for import of food products into India intended for human consumption. It has also notified the list of approved establishments in Bhutan that can import specified food products.
FSSAI Proposes Amendments to Food Import Regulations
The FSSAI is proposing to update the methods of analysis used for testing imported food samples. While the Authority’s manuals will remain the primary reference, food laboratories will now have the flexibility to adopt validated methods prescribed by internationally recognized organizations. Additionally, it is also proposed that the director of notified laboratories or referral laboratories can be the authorised signatory on analysis reports.
Government Removes Export Restrictions on Onions And Extends Import Period for Yellow Peas
The Central Government has announced changes to the export policies for onions and import policies for yellow peas. These policy changes aim to facilitate trade and ensure adequate supply of these commodities in the domestic market.
FSSAI and Bhutan Food and Drug Authority Sign Agreement for Food Exports
The agreement recognizes the BFDA’s official control over food business operators (FBOs) in Bhutan as equivalent to FSSAI’s requirements. BFDA will issue a health certificate to Bhutanese FBOs as proof of compliance with FSSAI regulations. Indian importers can obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC) based on the health certificate issued by BFDA for approved food consignments.
Extension of Transition Period for Integrated Veterinary Health Certificate for Milk and Milk Products
The latest extension pushes back the deadline to October 31, 2024. Imported consignments of milk and milk products with bills of lading or veterinary health certificates issued after this date will only be eligible for post-import clearance if they comply with the requirements of the Integrated Veterinary Health Certificate.