When Rajiv Sharma, founder of a small electronics recycling startup in Gurugram, placed his first order of used lithium batteries from South Korea, he expected smooth sailing. But within a week, Customs flagged his shipment — “Restricted Item, DGFT Authorization Required.”
That’s when he discovered what many first-time importers learn the hard way: environmental goods need more than just import licenses — they need environmental clearance, EPR registration, and traceable labeling.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know about DGFT authorization for importing restricted environmental goods like batteries, e-waste, and plastic waste — in a way that’s practical and easy to understand.
The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) regulates India’s import-export policy. Every product is classified under an HS code — and if your code says “Restricted,” you can’t import it freely. You’ll need a special DGFT authorization before the goods are shipped to India.
For environmental materials — like used batteries, electronic scrap, or plastic waste — this authorization also requires approvals from environmental agencies such as the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) and the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).
Essentially, DGFT ensures trade compliance, while MoEFCC and CPCB ensure environmental safety.
If you’re in recycling, manufacturing, or refurbishing, your product may fall under these restricted categories:
These goods are controlled not to block trade, but to ensure they don’t harm the environment or public health once they enter India.
Before importing anything, go to the DGFT ITC (HS) Classification portal and search your product’s HS code.
If the import policy says:
This simple step can save you from months of delay and thousands in port storage charges.
Pro Tip: Many importers of battery scrap or used electronics skip this step — and end up paying heavy demurrage because their goods can’t clear Customs without a valid DGFT license.
Getting DGFT authorization is only one part of the process. For restricted environmental goods, you’ll also need approvals from MoEFCC or CPCB, depending on the product type.
| Category | Main Authority | Documents You’ll Need |
|---|---|---|
| Used batteries / battery scrap | CPCB under Battery Waste Management Rules | Recycler registration, EPR Registration Number, barcode or QR code on battery packs |
| E-waste / used electronics | MoEFCC and CPCB | Importer/Producer registration, EPR authorisation, annual return filing setup |
| Plastic scrap or packaging | CPCB / SPCB under Plastic Waste Management Rules | PIBO registration, EPR certificate, QR-coded labelling (mandatory from July 2025) |
| Hazardous or mixed waste | MoEFCC under HOW Rules | Form 5 application, recycling permission, and destination facility details |
These approvals prove that your import will be handled safely and reused responsibly, not dumped or disposed of in India.
Once your environmental permissions are ready, log in to the DGFT Import Management System and file your application.
You’ll be asked to provide:
Your application is reviewed by the Exim Facilitation Committee (EFC) — a cross-departmental body that ensures environmental, safety, and trade norms are all met.
Once approved, DGFT issues a digital authorization, usually valid for 12 months and specific to a certain quantity of goods.
After authorization, importers must now comply with labelling and EPR (Extended Producer Responsibility) norms — a key focus of India’s 2025 sustainability reforms.
Here’s what importers must ensure:
These requirements make every imported product traceable — from port entry to end-of-life recycling — strengthening India’s circular economy goals.
1. Submitting incomplete documents:
Missing an NOC or EPR registration can lead to outright rejection or months of delay.
2. Ignoring product labelling:
Goods without QR or EPR labels may be held at port or even sent back to the origin country.
3. Mixing product categories:
Different rules apply for batteries, plastics, and e-waste. Each must be declared separately.
4. Late renewals:
DGFT authorizations typically expire after one year. Renew before expiry to avoid being flagged for unauthorized imports.
Importing restricted goods without the right authorization can trigger serious consequences:
Beyond penalties, the biggest risk is brand reputation — being seen as a non-compliant or “polluting” importer can jeopardize partnerships and financing.
Think of compliance not as a burden, but as a growth enabler. Businesses that secure their authorizations early:
In short — proactive DGFT and EPR compliance turns red tape into a business advantage.
At Green Permits Consulting, we handle the process from start to finish:
Our team simplifies the maze of environmental approvals so you can focus on running your business — not chasing paperwork.
📞 +91 78350 06182
📧 wecare@greenpermits.in
Book a Consultation — Let’s make compliance simple and sustainable.
DGFT authorization allows import of restricted goods under trade policy. MoEFCC permission ensures those goods meet India’s environmental and safety standards. You usually need both.
Yes — but only with valid DGFT authorization and CPCB EPR registration showing how the waste will be processed or reused responsibly.
Typically 30–45 working days if all documents are in order. Early filing before shipment saves significant time.
It’s a unique ID issued by CPCB that links your imported product to a recycling or collection plan. From 2025, it must appear as a barcode or QR code on your packaging.
Your goods can be seized or ordered for re-export. You may also face fines, blacklisting, or loss of your import license.
