The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is seeking stakeholder feedback on a proposed Basic Food Import Clearance Fee (BFICF). This fee aims to simplify the process for food importers while ensuring food safety standards. This notice was issued on June 27, 2024.
Current System
Currently, food importers pay various fees, including visual inspection fees and testing fees, depending on the specific import.
Proposed BFICF
The BFICF would replace these existing fees with a single, standardized charge of Rs. 8400 + applicable GST per Bill of Entry (BoE). This fee would cover the cost of visual inspections, laboratory testing, and other processes required by the FSSAI.
As per this BFICF provision, individual Importer will pay a uniform basic fee amount to FSSAI for individual BoE, irrespective of the fact whether the same is referred by ICEGATE for FSSAI scrutiny procedure or not. FSSAI will bear all the expenses of visual inspection, Laboratory testing fees, etc., as decided from time to time, irrespective of the items/ testing in the particular BoE referred to FSSAI.
Seeking Public Input
The FSSAI invites comments and suggestions from stakeholders on the proposed BFICF. The deadline for submitting feedback is July 15, 2024. Comments should be submitted following the prescribed format to import@fssai.gov.in.
