CBIC Tightens Customs Scrutiny on Plastic Imports Under New EPR Norms

The directive follows amendments to the Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016—specifically the 2024 amendments—wherein importers of plastic packaging, plastic carry bags, plastic sheets, and plastic raw materials (including resin and pellets) are now required to be compulsorily registered on the EPR portal maintained by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).

“Importers of any plastic packaging material or raw materials intended for plastic packaging must present proof of EPR registration at the time of customs clearance,” stated Neeraj Goyal, OSD (Cus-III), in the instruction issued to all customs formations across India.

This measure reinforces Section 6 of the EPR Guidelines, which aim to hold producers, importers, and brand owners accountable for managing post-consumer plastic waste. CBIC had earlier issued a similar directive via Instruction No. 14/2023-Customs, but the latest instruction strengthens enforcement in line with updated CPCB guidance dated June 13, 2025.

The instruction calls upon all Principal Chief Commissioners, Commissioners, and Director Generals under CBIC to ensure frontline customs officers are sensitized to this requirement during the import clearance process.

Instruction Details

Instruction No. 21/2025-Customs

Date: 02/06/2025