The Directorate General of Foreign Trade, (DGFT), on December 30, 2024, issued a notification regarding the Standard Operating Procedure for Export Authorisations for Restricted Seeds and Planting Materials.
To streamline trade and reduce turnaround time for obtaining export authorizations, a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) has been established for exporting seeds and planting materials categorized as "Restricted." Manufacturers/exporters must adhere to the SOP when applying with DGFT for export authorization. For seeds intended for sowing purposes, exporters are required to provide product specifications, raw material details, and affidavits confirming compliance with the Biological Diversity Act, 2002, and non-utilization of Indian germplasm. They must also ensure adherence to Notification No. 23/2015-2020, which mandates a valid seed dealer license, chemical treatment declaration, and proper labeling to indicate non-edibility. For non-sowing purposes, an affidavit must confirm that the material is not for planting and is solely for consumption. These steps aim to expedite export procedures while maintaining compliance with relevant regulations.
[Notification No. 26/2024-25]
