Why LMPC Certification Is Crucial For International Trade?

The Legal Metrology Packaged Commodities Rules, 2011 deals with pre-packaged commodities in India. The rules apply to those buyers who buy, sell, distribute, or supply any commodity for deferred payment, cash, or commission. In simpler terms, any individual who wishes to import pre-packaged commodities, manufacture such items, pack, or even act as a retailer in the supply chain, is mandated to obtain an LMPC certificate.

This comprehensive blog outlines every minute detail on LMPC certificate, its significance, and disclosure rules entities must adhere to seamlessly obtain the license. 

What is Legal Metrology Packaged Commodities?

LMPC certificate involves registration of entities dealing with pre-packaged commodities. As per the LMPC Rules 2011, pre-packaged items are those products placed in a packaging (sealed or not) in the absence of a buyer. It includes all the goods that are packaged before entering into the markets and becoming commercially available.

The legal metrology certificate in India is granted by an office under the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, namely the Department of Legal Metrology. The license/ certification remains valid for a minimum of 1 year and can extend up to a maximum of 5 years.

Why LMPC Certificate is Important for Businesses?

LMPC Registration ensures and promotes fair trade practices in international trade. The rules lay down legal obligations for entities to ensure transparent, accurate, and prescribed labeling in their pre-packaged items. These mandates ensure the protection of consumers, making them aware of the correct quantity, quality, and other key aspects they must be aware of before consuming/using the product.

Understand the Legal Metrology Compliance for Importers to avoid any Common Pitfalls. It is necessary to comply with the LMPC Rules and provisions, as it can save the entity from any instances of detention or confiscation of imported goods by the customs authorities. This obstacles will not only increase the overall costs of importing, but also led to significant delays and financial repercussions.

Declarations and Disclosures in LMPC Certification

Under the LMPC Rules 2011, every package must bear labeling on its packaged item, specifying particulars in a clear and concise manner. For instance, the labeling should contain declarations conspicuously and plainly. It must specify the name and address of the manufacturer. The packaging must bear the name and quantity of each item, in case there are multiple items within a package. The pack must contain a standard unit of measure or weight, and if the commodity is sold by number, it must contain the same.

Packaging must contain the year and month of packaging. In addition, every package should bear the telephone number, name, address, and email address of the person who will be designated as the key person in case of a consumer complaint. Packaging cannot have individual stickers affixed on it, except in case the sticker is for reducing the MRP (Maximum Retail Price).

Understand the Emerging Trends in LMPC Compliance & Legal Metrology Regulations and key updates made in the rules from time to time to stay compliant and legally import, sell, manufacture, or package pre-packaged items in India.

Conclusion

The Legal Metrology Pre-Packaged Commodities Certification (lmpc certification) rules makes it mandatory to secure the license by the importers, sellers, distributors, or manufacturers of pre-packaged commodities. TO secure the certificate, applicants have to submit an application form with the concerned authorities, pay the applicable fees, and mak certain disclosures in its packaging. Connect with Legal Raasta Private Limited to understand the regulatory requirements such as eligibility, fees, documents to be submitted, and compliance with the LMPC certificate in India.