Import and Export of Dry Fruits and Perishable Fruits in India

The import and export of dry fruits and perishable fruits in India are governed by several laws and regulations. These include the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), and the Plant Quarantine (Regulation of Import into India) Order, 2003. Below is a list of the key documents required for the import and export of dry fruits and perishable fruits in India.

Required Documents

1. 1. FSSAI Import License: All imported food products, including dry fruits and perishable fruits, must have an FSSAI import license, which is issued after a thorough examination of the product and the manufacturer’s facilities.
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3. 2. Bill of Lading: Acts as a receipt and proof of ownership of goods. Issued by the carrier and required for customs clearance.
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5. 3. Invoice: Details the product, its value, and terms of sale. It is used for determining import duty and customs clearance.
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7. 4. Packing List: Provides details of the contents of each package and the quantity of items. Used for customs verification.
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9. 5. Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) Certificate: Issued by the exporting country’s competent authority, confirming that the food product complies with SPS measures of the importing country.
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11. 6.Certificate of Analysis: Issued by the manufacturer or an accredited laboratory, confirming that the food product meets required quality standards.
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13. 7. Free Sale and Distribution Certificate: Issued by the exporting country’s competent authority, confirming that the product is freely sold and distributed in its country of origin.
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15. 8. Import Permit: Required for specific food items such as meat, dairy, or genetically modified foods. Issued by the DGFT.
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17. 9. Customs Declaration Form (CDF): Submitted by the importer or representative to the customs department, declaring details of the imported goods.
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19. 10. Plant Quarantine Clearance (PQC): Required for plant-based food products and issued by the Plant Quarantine Authority.
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21. 11. Phytosanitary Certificate: Issued by the Plant Protection Organization of the exporting country, certifying that the consignment is free from pests and diseases.
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23. 12. Airway Bill or Bill of Lading: Issued by the carrier as proof of shipment of the consignment.
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25. 13. Inspection Certificate: Issued by an authorized inspection agency in the country of origin, confirming that the consignment meets quality standards.
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27. 14.Packing List: Details the packaging of each item and the total quantity per package.
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29. 15. Commercial Invoice:Contains details about the consignment’s cost and terms of sale.

Additional Considerations

The specific requirements for importing dry fruits and perishable fruits vary depending on the product and country of origin. Importers should consult the relevant authorities and obtain all necessary licenses, permits, and certificates before importing food products into India.

In addition to the above, importers and exporters must ensure compliance with the standards and regulations set by the FSSAI and DGFT. They must also adhere to specific regulations such as labeling and packaging standards. For instance, perishable fruits and vegetables must be packaged to preserve freshness and prevent damage during transportation.

Export Requirements

Exporters must obtain an FSSAI Export License, issued after inspection of the manufacturing facility to ensure compliance with FSSAI standards. A Phytosanitary Certificate is also mandatory for the export of perishable fruits and vegetables, certifying that the consignment is free from pests and diseases.

Exporters should also comply with the regulations of the destination country, which may require additional certifications, specific labeling, or packaging requirements.

Government Support and Policies

The Indian government is actively promoting the export of food products by reducing import duties and providing incentives to exporters. Therefore, importers and exporters should stay updated on current trade regulations and policies affecting the import and export of dry fruits and perishable fruits in India.

Conclusion

The import and export of dry fruits and perishable fruits in India involve multiple documents and clearances. Importers and exporters must comply with the requirements of the FSSAI, DGFT, and other relevant authorities to ensure their products meet the necessary standards and regulations. Staying informed about current trade policies and maintaining compliance with all import-export procedures are essential for smooth operations in this sector.