Import of teas from Nepal as “Darjeeling Tea”

Import of teas from the neighbouring country (Nepal) as “Darjeeling Tea” – reg

Reference is invited to F.No. T-36013/1/2019-Plant (A) dated 3rd November, 2021, issued by the Department of Commerce (DoC), Ministry of Commerce & Industry, New Delhi, on the above-mentioned subject (copy enclosed).

1. It has been stated in the above-mentioned communication, that Darjeeling Tea is recognised for its unique flavour and qualities and has acquired tremendous domestic and international reputation. The DoC is in receipt of various communications raising concerns regarding import of tea from Nepal and the domestic sale of such imported teas as “Darjeeling Tea”, thereby adversely impacting the interests of the domestic Darjeeling Tea Planters.
   
2. It is clarified that as per the Food Safety Standards (FSS) (Import) Regulations, 2017,clearance is required for import of food items into India. Further, the present trade treaty between India and Nepal allows mandatory sanitary and phytosanitary certificates, before products are allowed into each other’s country. As per the provisions of the Tea (Distribution & Export) Control Order, 2005, any importer importing tea from Nepal needs to have a license, as mandated under this order, and. should also have a clearance certificate issued by the Tea Council.
   
3. It is requested that necessary action may accordingly be taken to ensure strict and mandatory compliance of the above mentioned FSS(lmport) regulations and to also insist on a valid certificate issued by the Tea Board under the Tea (Distribution & Export) Control Order, 2005, besides the clearance certificate issued by the Tea Council of India, prior to allowing import of tea from Nepal.
   
4. The difficulties, if any, in the implementation of this Instruction may be please brought to the notice of the Board.

Instruction No. 25/2021-Customs

Read More on CBIC, Customs