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.
Food Testing Labs Urged To Exercise Caution In Uploading Reports On FICS Portal
The advisory highlights concerns regarding inadvertent mistakes made by laboratories while uploading test reports of import samples, which can lead to delays in the clearance of consignments. The FSSAI has directed laboratories to adhere to specified guidelines.
FSSAI Proposes Streamlined Food Import Clearance Fee
The Basic Food Import Clearance Fee (BFICF) would replace 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. An 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.
Label Rectification for Imported Foods Allowed in Customs Bonded Warehouses
The FSSAI has taken this decision to facilitate a smoother import process for food items while maintaining stringent quality standards. The office order emphasizes that these modifications are introduced to strike a balance between facilitating trade and ensuring the safety of imported food into India.
India Discusses Trade in Food Products in Bilateral Meeting with Greece
Both sides acknowledged the strategic importance of each other to foster food security. India as one of the largest producer of Agri Food and Brazil as one the largest exporter of food can work towards ensuring food security for the world. Brazilian side highlighted that the bi-lateral trade between the two countries has expanded by 32% to US$15.2 billion in 2022.
The two sides discussed synergies and exploring possibilities in further collaboration and co-ordination in the food processing sector particularly in terms of exchange of goods and human resource. Both sides agreed to continue to work in partnership with each other to facilitate even greater exchange of goods and ideas.
