Re-imported Edible/Food Products Requires Phyto Certificate

[Ref: DGFT Policy Circular No. 35 (RE-2010)/2009-2014 Dated, the 4^th August, 2011]

Subject: Re-import of perishable edible / food products for export again.

Representations have been received seeking a clarification on the applicability of condition of shelf life of 60% stipulated under Para 13 of Chapter 1A (General notes regarding Import Policy) of ITC(HS) in case of re-import of edible/food products like frozen meat, frozen mango slices and pulp etc. under the para 2.38 of Foreign Trade Policy. It has been stated in the representations that sometimes edible/food products exported abroad are re-imported for relabeling/repack/ rework and re-exported subsequently. Since the condition of shelf life of 60% pertains to goods imported into the country, it has been requested to clarify whether the said condition is applicable for such goods.

2. The matter has been examined and it has been decided that the condition of 60% shelf life stipulated under para 13 of Chapter 1A (General notes regarding Import Policy) of ITC (HS) is not applicable to re-import for export purpose under para 2.38 of Foreign Trade policy. However, this will be subject to following conditions.

(i) Re-imported edible/food products to meet stipulated phytosanitary conditions.

(ii) Importers to give an undertaking to Customs that re-imported the goods are not sold in the domestic market.

(iii) Importers to submit a certificate to Customs that such goods have been re-exported.