Importers in India must comply with the Plastic Waste Management (PWM) Rules, 2016, as amended in 2022. These rules make Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) mandatory for producers, importers, and brand owners dealing with plastic packaging. Even if the imported product is not plastic (such as machinery, textiles, chemicals, or electronics), if it is packed in plastic, the importer must obtain EPR registration from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).
Below are the most common FAQs related to import guidelines and EPR certification to help businesses ensure smooth customs clearance and avoid penalties.
Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Certification is a mandatory authorization issued by the CPCB. It ensures that importers of plastic packaging or products packed in plastic take responsibility for managing plastic waste generated from their imports.
Yes. Importers of plastic packaging or products with plastic packaging must obtain EPR registration from CPCB. Without registration, they are not allowed to carry out import-related business.
Yes. Even if the core product (e.g., machinery, textiles, chemicals) is not plastic, if it comes wrapped or packaged in plastic, EPR registration is compulsory for import clearance.
Importers must apply for EPR registration on the CPCB centralized online portal. The process involves submitting business details, product information, and compliance plans for plastic waste management.
If your EPR registration is pending: • Upload the application status from the CPCB portal on e-Sanchit while filing the Bill of Entry. • Customs will release the consignment provisionally, and your goods will not be held. • Records of such clearances are shared with CPCB for monitoring.
Currently, 3–4 months are required to obtain EPR registration. During this time, importers can continue importing by uploading proof of their EPR application status.
Importing without valid EPR registration may lead to: • Seizure or confiscation of goods, • Penalties under Sections 111 & 112 of the Customs Act, 1962, and • CPCB action for violating the PWM Rules.
As per Rule 6.1, the following must register: • Producers (P) of plastic packaging, • Importers (I) of plastic or plastic-packaged products, • Brand Owners (BO), • Plastic Waste Processors (PWPs) involved in recycling, waste-to-energy, waste-to-oil, or composting.
• EPR Registration Certificate (if approved), or • Application Status from CPCB portal (if under process). These must be uploaded in e-Sanchit along with the Bill of Entry.
EPR ensures compliance with India’s plastic waste management laws, helps reduce environmental impact, prevents delays in customs clearance, and protects importers from penalties.
