The Customs Department of India has issued Instruction No. 29/2023-Customs, which introduces significant changes regarding the import of milk and milk products into the country. The instruction emphasizes the necessity of an integrated Veterinary Health Certificate for the import of these products into India. The details on the background, mandated requirements, transition/migration period, modification of previous instructions, implementation and sensitization, and communication details.
Instruction No. 29/2023-Customs F.No.401/18/2020-Cus.III
The Customs Department of India has issued Instruction No. 29/2023-Customs, which introduces significant changes regarding the import of milk and milk products into the country. The instruction emphasizes the necessity of an integrated Veterinary Health Certificate for the import of these products into India. Here’s a detailed analysis of the key points mentioned below:
Detailed Analysis:
1. Background and Reference:
The instruction refers to the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying’s (DAHD) OM F.No.L-11/1/2019-Trade (E-11542) issued on 17.07.2023 and 31.03.2023. It emphasizes the necessity of an integrated Veterinary Health Certificate for the import of Milk and Milk Products into India.
2. Mandated Requirements:
As per the OM dated 31.03.2023, DAHD mandates the inclusion of DAHD’s sanitary requirements and the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India’s (FSSAI) food safety requirements in the Veterinary Health Certificate. The certificate must be certified by the exporting country and can be a single document or a certificate with annexure as per the exporting country’s regulations.
3. Transition/Migration Period:
The OM dated 17.07.2023 extends the transition/migration time until 31st December 2023, providing a grace period for stakeholders to adapt to the new requirements.
4. Modification of Previous Instructions:
The instruction highlights modifications to CBIC Instructions No. 06/2020-Customs dated 20.05.2020 and Instruction No. 18/2022-Customs dated 12.08.2022. Specifically, the changes pertain to the requirement of Veterinary Health Certificates for the import of Milk and Milk Products.
5. Implementation and Sensitization:
The Customs Department urges all Principal Chief Commissioners, Chief Commissioners, and other relevant authorities to sensitize officers under their jurisdiction regarding the revised requirements. This emphasizes the proactive approach needed for effective implementation.
6. Communication Details:
The communication is signed by Radhe Krishna, Under Secretary, Cus-III, Customs Policy Wing, providing contact details for further inquiries.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Customs Instruction No. 29/2023-Customs brings about crucial changes in the import process for Milk and Milk Products, emphasizing the need for an integrated Veterinary Health Certificate. Stakeholders are urged to familiarize themselves with the modified requirements, and any challenges in implementation should be communicated to the Board.
FAQ
Q1: What are the key changes introduced by Instruction No. 29/2023-Customs?
A1: The key changes include the mandated requirement of an integrated Veterinary Health Certificate, inclusion of sanitary and food safety requirements, extension of the transition/migration period, and modifications to previous instructions regarding the import of Milk and Milk Products. Q2: What is the transition/migration period provided by the instruction?
A2: The transition/migration period has been extended until 31st December 2023, providing a grace period for stakeholders to adapt to the new requirements.
Q3: Who is responsible for sensitizing officers regarding the revised requirements?
A3: The Customs Department urges all Principal Chief Commissioners, Chief Commissioners, and other relevant authorities to sensitize officers under their jurisdiction regarding the revised requirements.