In the fast-growing consumer market, packaging plays a critical role—not just in branding and presentation but also in compliance with various regulatory standards. For manufacturers, importers, and distributors of packaged goods in India, adhering to regulatory requirements is essential to ensure legal operation, consumer trust, and product shelf sustainability. This article outlines the key regulatory requirements every packaged goods business must comply with in India.

1. Legal Metrology (Packaged Commodities) Rules, 2011

The Legal Metrology (Packaged Commodities) Rules, 2011 govern the standards and declarations that must be made on pre-packaged commodities. These rules ensure transparency and consumer protection by mandating declarations such as:

• Name and address of the manufacturer or importer

• Common or generic name of the commodity

• Net quantity in standard units

• Date of manufacture or import

• Retail sale price (MRP) inclusive of all taxes

• Customer care details for redressal

Non-compliance with these rules can result in heavy fines, seizure of products, and even prosecution.

2. BIS Certification

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) issues certifications to ensure product quality and safety. For several categories such as food containers, electrical appliances, and cement packaging, BIS certification is mandatory. Products that fall under mandatory BIS schemes must display the ISI mark to be legally sold in the Indian market.

3. FSSAI License (For Food Products)

If your packaged goods include food items, obtaining a license from the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is mandatory. The FSSAI ensures that food products are safe for consumption and properly labeled. The license requires strict adherence to hygiene, storage, and packaging norms.

4. Environmental Regulations – EPR Compliance

For businesses involved in packaging that generates plastic or electronic waste, Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) registration is required. Under the Plastic Waste Management Rules and E-Waste Management Rules, producers, importers, and brand owners must take responsibility for collecting and recycling their waste packaging. Registration with the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) is a prerequisite for compliance.

5. Import-Specific Requirements

If you are importing packaged goods into India, certain additional regulations apply:

• Importer Exporter Code (IEC)

• LMPC Certificate from the Legal Metrology Department

• Adherence to customs declarations and standards

• Registration with authorities like CDSCO, WPC, or FSSAI depending on the product type

Failing to meet these requirements can lead to clearance delays and penalties at ports of entry.

6. Barcode and Labelling Norms

GS1 barcode registration is often required for retail and supply chain purposes. Additionally, product labels must be printed legibly in English or Hindi and adhere to size and placement standards prescribed by law.

LMPC Registration in Delhi through Agile Regulatory

Importers of pre-packaged goods into India must obtain a Legal Metrology Packaged Commodities (LMPC) Certificate, especially if they’re marketing their goods in retail. In Delhi, the Department of Legal Metrology under the Government of NCT oversees the registration process. Agile Regulatory offers end-to-end assistance for obtaining LMPC Registration in Delhi, ensuring that your imported products comply with all packaging declarations under the LMPC Rules. Their team helps with application filing, document preparation, and coordination with the Legal Metrology Department—making the process fast, hassle-free, and fully compliant with Delhi's regulatory framework.

Final Thoughts

Packaged goods may seem straightforward, but ensuring compliance with India’s regulatory landscape requires diligence and proper documentation. From basic labeling norms under Legal Metrology to specialized registrations like FSSAI and EPR, each regulation plays a critical role in product approval and consumer trust. Businesses that prioritize regulatory compliance from the outset not only avoid legal issues but also build a solid foundation for growth and credibility in the market.