Instruction No. 19/2025-Customs, Dated 20-06-2025
The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) has issued an Instruction referencing the FSSAI Order dated 13.06.2025, regarding the validity and revalidation of the No Objection Certificate (NOC) issued for the import of certain alcoholic beverages.
1. Applicability of the Instruction
The Instruction applies to imported alcoholic beverages that meet the following criteria:
- Bottled in origin or in bulk
- Alcohol content exceeding 10%
- No declared expiry date
Such products fall under the regulatory framework of the Food Safety and Standards (Import) Regulations, 2017.
2. Extension of NOC Validity
Previously, the NOC had a shorter validity period. As per the new directive:
- The NOC issued by FSSAI for the import of eligible alcoholic beverages will now be valid for 365 days from the date of issue.
- This extension aims to address logistical and clearance delays often faced in ports and warehouses, particularly for bulk shipments.
3. Revalidation of NOC After 365 Days
In cases where import consignments remain at ports or storage facilities beyond 365 days:
- A visual inspection may be conducted by the competent authority.
- Upon payment of a visual inspection fee, the NOC may be revalidated, subject to satisfactory inspection results.
This ensures that product integrity and safety are maintained without unduly penalising importers for delays beyond their control.
4. Objective – Ease of Doing Business with Food Safety
This move is part of a broader effort to:
- Facilitate ease of doing business in the food and beverage import sector.
- Prevent unnecessary wastage or re-export of high-value consignments.
- Ensure continued compliance with food safety standards, even during extended storage periods.
5. Conclusion
The CBIC’s Instruction, in line with the FSSAI’s regulatory update, strikes a balance between regulatory oversight and business facilitation. Importers of alcoholic beverages with no expiry dates can now operate with greater predictability and flexibility, provided all safety protocols are followed.
