The Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying (DAHD) in India has recently issued clarifications to streamline the process for obtaining a Sanitary Import Permit (SIP), essential for importing livestock and related products into the country. These updates aim to ensure compliance with India's health and safety standards while facilitating smoother import procedures.
Key Clarifications:
- Certificate of Origin: Each consignment must be accompanied by a certificate of origin issued by the relevant authority of the exporting country's government, state government, industry association, or manufacturer/supplier. This certificate should include details such as the order number, container number, port of discharge, buyer's name, and product description. It must also contain a declaration confirming the goods' country of origin. dahd.gov.in
- Veterinary Health Certificate (VHC): For products like milk and milk products, an integrated VHC is required. This certificate combines the sanitary requirements of the DAHD with the food safety standards of the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI). The VHC must be certified by the competent authority of the exporting country. dahd.gov.in
- Compliance with FSSAI Notifications: Importers should be aware of FSSAI orders, such as the one issued on August 3, 2022, which mandates that all milk and milk products, pork and pork products, and fish and fish products imported into India be accompanied by a health certificate from the exporting country's competent authority. The implementation date for this requirement for milk and milk products is December 31, 2023. dahd.gov.in
- Application Process for SIP: Importers are required to submit a completed application form (Form A) to the Joint Secretary, Trade Division, DAHD. The form necessitates details such as the exact description of the livestock products, consignment quantity, consignor and importer information, production locality, and the expected port of entry in India. A declaration affirming the accuracy of the provided information and an undertaking to produce all specified documents and certificates is also mandatory. dahd.gov.in
These clarifications aim to streamline the import process and ensure that all livestock and related products entering India adhere to the nation's health and safety regulations. Importers are advised to stay updated with both DAHD and FSSAI guidelines to ensure compliance and facilitate smooth import operations.
