Recent plastic packaging import cargo norms are causing port congestion, with industry body FIEO and customs authorities attempting to clear the resulting logjam, which has also increased port dwell times.
Anyone who imports plastic packaging products, carry bags, multi-layered packaging, or plastic sheets must register on the Central Pollution Control Board’s (CPCB) portal after amendments to the Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016, were made last year.
The initiative aims to reduce single-use plastic consumption. These guidelines, however, apply not only to those who import plastic packaging products as finished goods, but also to those who import primary products such as machinery, textiles, or any other article packaged in plastic.
The Federation of Indian Export Organizations (FIEO) has written to the CPCB about the situation. It is worth noting that, according to a Jawaharlal Nehru Customs House (JNCH) order dated February 8, 2023, exporters importing raw materials or machines packed or wrapped in plastic bags and sheets must apply under Extended Producer Responsibilities (EPR), even if these are non-plastic.
