Legal Metrology Packaged Commodity (LMPC) Certificate for Importers

Here are the key reasons why obtaining an LMPC certificate is essential for importers in India:

• Legal Compliance: Importers are legally required to obtain the LMPC certificate to ensure compliance with Indian legal metrology regulations. Failing to do so can result in penalties, delays in customs clearance, and even seizure of goods.
• Consumer Trust: The LMPC certificate signifies that the imported packaged commodities meet the necessary quality and measurement standards. This certification enhances consumer trust in the products and strengthens the reputation of the importer.
• Market Access:Many retailers and distributors in India require imported products to have the LMPC certification before they can be sold in their establishments. Having the certificate opens up opportunities for importers to access a wider market and establish partnerships with local businesses.

The following are not considered to be a legal compulsion for having an LMPC certificate for import:

• Commodities have a net weight of 10 gms or 10 ml or less.
• Agricultural products packed in weights greater than 50 kg
• Packages containing fast food items packed by a hotel or restaurant
• Formulation-containing packages authorized by the Drugs (Price Control) Order, 1995
• Packaged goods targeted for institutional consumers(those who purchase the products directly from the manufacturer for use in that business) or service institutions such as airways, railways, hotels and hospitals
• Packages containing goods weighing more than 25 kg or 25 litres, with the exception of cement or fertilizer sold in bags weighing up to 50 kg.

These are the list of document required for LMPC Certificate for pre-packaged goods

The Government Fees for LMPC registration is ₹500 and the Professional fees for LMPC registration is ₹4,999. Once the payment is done, the registration authority will inspect the business premises before granting the LMPC certificate. The entire process is completed within 7-10 working days.

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The validity period for an LMPC Certificate is a minimum of 1 year (12 months) to a maximum of 5 years (60 months). Renewal of LMPC Certificate is required after every five years or after expiration of specified time period since its issuance. The LMPC import license must be renewed before the expiry period to avoid hassle and penalties during customs clearance.

According to the Department of Consumer Affairs, you are not permitted to manufacture, market, sell, Import, pack, or distribute pre-packaged goods without mentioning certain information on the outer package.

Following declarations must be made by the importers while registering for a Legal metrology certificate. Importers who fail to declare the following are ineligible to apply for LMPC registration.

• Whether the packing is made in standard quantities as specified in Rule 5 of Legal Metrology (Packaged Commodities Rules, 2011).
• Whether the package is a combination package or group package, or a multi-piece package.
• Whether the package is a retail package or a wholesale package
• Whether the package contains perishable commodities or food items
• Whether the packed items will also be exported out of the country
• Whether the items are being packed for specific industries only as raw material.
• Whether the package contains fast food items
• Whether the package contains any schedule / non-scheduled formulations covered under the Drugs (price control) order or any agricultural farm products of 50 kg and above.
• Whether the shop/factory/premises is owned/rented.
• Have your premises been last inspected by the inspector of the W & M Department?
• Whether your firm has been challenged during the last three years for violating Weights & Measures laws. If Yes, the date of challan etc.?
• Offenses for which challenged and whether it is compounded or not

The LMPC certificate is a regulatory requirement for Indian enterprises that sell pre-packaged products. It ensures that items meet exact measures, weights, and price norms, promoting transparency and protecting consumers' rights. Obtaining an LMPC certificate is a simple procedure, and following its criteria is critical for organizations seeking to avoid penalties and remain lawful in India. Businesses that follow the regulations outlined in the Legal Metrology Act, 2009 will promote ethical trade practices, effective inventory management, and even government tax collection, all while preserving customer trust.