CPCB Issues Directive for Importers of Plastic Raw Material to Register on Centralized EPR Portal

Dated: 13th June 2025
Issued by: Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB)
Subject: Mandatory Registration of Importers of Plastic Raw Material on Centralized EPR
Portal for Plastic Packaging

The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), under the Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate Change, has issued a crucial directive aimed at streamlining the registration process of plastic raw material importers. The notification, addressed to the Chairperson of the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC), underscores the enforcement of the Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016 (as amended).

Key Highlights of the Notification

• Registration Mandate:
  All importers of plastic packaging and plastic raw material (including resin, pellets, films, or preforms) intended for use in manufacturing plastic packaging must register on the Centralized Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Portal for Plastic Packaging.
• Legal Reference:
  The directive is in line with the Plastic Waste Management (Amendment) Rules, 2024, specifically the provision that defines importers and their obligation under Section 6 of the EPR Guidelines.
• Scope of Applicability:
  The requirement applies to any person importing:
  • Plastic packaging,
  • Commodities with plastic packaging,
  • Plastic raw materials including in the form of resin or pellets,
  • Intermediate materials for manufacturing packaging products.
  
• Customs Clearance Condition:
  Customs authorities are now required to verify the proof of registration on the EPR Portal before clearing consignments of plastic raw materials.

CPCB's Directive to CBIC

The CPCB has requested CBIC to issue instructions to its concerned authorities to enforce this regulation strictly at all entry points. This initiative is designed to ensure better traceability and accountability of plastic packaging material and uphold environmental compliance.

What Importers Must Do

Importers of plastic packaging material or raw materials used in such packaging are advised to:

1. Register on the EPR Portal for Plastic Packaging hosted by CPCB.

2. Ensure documentation is ready for verification at customs clearance.

3. Stay updated with the latest amendments to the Plastic Waste Management Rules to remain compliant.

Final Note

This move strengthens India’s ongoing efforts to manage plastic waste responsibly and aligns with the nation’s sustainability goals under the Lifestyle for Environment (LiFE) initiative. All stakeholders are encouraged to comply promptly to avoid delays in import clearances and ensure smooth business operations.
Stay updated with Aleph India for further guidelines.