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.

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 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.

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.