At Nuts and Dry Fruits Council (India), we believe that a stronger industry is built when policy and practice move together and when the voice of the trade is present where decisions are being shaped.

In this spirit, the Council participated in a stakeholder meeting on “Issues and Challenges Related to Import of Food Commodities” held on 08 April 2026 at FSSAI Headquarters, New Delhi, chaired by the CEO, Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI). The meeting saw participation from over 30 food importer associations.

FSSAI shared key steps being taken to improve both food safety and ease of doing business. These included:

• Expansion of Points of Entry from 56 to 82

• Rollout of Single Sign-On at non-manned POEs in coordination with the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs

• Integration of the Food Import Clearance System (FICS) with ICEGATE under SWIFT 2.0

• Revised fee system (effective 23 March 2026), allowing inspection and testing before payment

• Fees to be cleared before issuance of PNOC, NOC, or NCR to reduce processing time

• Conduct of 24 training programmes to support stakeholders

Representing the industry, NDFC(I) raised concerns around delays in sample testing and the limited availability of NABL-accredited laboratories.

FSSAI clarified that most samples are cleared within timelines, with delays mainly in cases requiring detailed microbial testing. The need for more uniform clearance processes across ports and better use of the Risk Management System (RMS) was also discussed.

FSSAI also cautioned against the misuse of Provisional NoC, stating that consignments must remain available for re-sampling, failing which strict action may follow.

The meeting concluded with FSSAI assuring that stakeholder inputs will be reviewed to further streamline import processes without compromising on safety standards.

Through such engagements, the Council continues to ensure that the concerns of its members are heard at the right forums, helping shape a more efficient, transparent, and responsive import ecosystem for the industry.