The Department of Animal Husbandry & Dairying (DAHD) has extended the transition period for the implementation of the Integrated Veterinary Health Certificate for Import of Milk and Milk Products into India.
It may be recalled that previously, Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) had mandated the requirement of a Health Certificate for imported food consignments, including milk and milk products. However, after consultations, the DAHD and FSSAI introduced an Integrated Veterinary Health Certificate. This new certificate encompasses both the food safety requirements laid down by FSSAI and the sanitary requirements of DAHD. The Integrated Veterinary Health Certificate for Import of Milk and Milk Products into India has to be certified by the exporting country along with the consignments to be exported into India.
The DAHD has issued numerous OMs pushing back the deadline for compliance with this certificate so as to enable stakeholders to have sufficient time to transition to the new system.
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.
The Integrated Veterinary Health Certificate, introduced earlier this year, combines the sanitary requirements of the DAHD and the food safety requirements of the FSSAI. It aims to streamline the import process and ensure the safety and quality of imported milk and milk products.
The extension of the transition period provides additional time for exporters and importers to familiarize themselves with the new requirements and make necessary adjustments. This will help ensure a smooth transition and minimize disruptions in the import of milk and milk products.
