Instruction No. 14/2025-Customs, Dated 05-06-2025
1. Background
The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) has issued an official instruction regarding the operationalisation of the agreement signed between the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India, and the Bhutan Food and Drug Authority (BFDA). This directive aims to streamline and formalise the process related to food imports from Bhutan to India.
2. Relevant Circulars and References
- CBIC Instruction No. 22/2024-Customs dated 16-10-2024
- FSSAI Office Order dated 19-05-2025
These documents collectively outline the framework and guidelines to be followed for the implementation of the bilateral agreement.
3. Updated List of Approved Establishments
As per the recent communication, FSSAI has shared an updated list of 117 approved Bhutanese establishments. Each establishment has been listed along with its scope of approval, providing greater clarity on the nature of food items permitted for export to India under the agreement.
4. Health Certificate Format and Signatories
There is no change in:
- The format of the Health Certificate to be used for food consignments.
- The list of authorised signatories who are permitted to issue the certificates on behalf of the Bhutan Food and Drug Authority.
Importers and customs officials must continue to verify documents against the existing formats and authorised personnel listings.
5. Compliance Requirements
All other compliance and regulatory requirements related to food imports from Bhutan remain unchanged. Importers are advised to adhere to the existing protocols for documentation, inspection, and clearance to avoid delays or rejections at the port of entry.
6. Conclusion
This instruction reinforces the collaborative efforts between India and Bhutan in ensuring safe and regulated food trade. Stakeholders involved in the import of Bhutanese food products are expected to comply with the outlined procedures while taking note of the updated list of approved establishments.
