Understanding DGFT Authorization for Import of Restricted Environmental Goods

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.

What is DGFT Authorization and Why It Matters

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.

Goods That Commonly Need DGFT Authorization

If you’re in recycling, manufacturing, or refurbishing, your product may fall under these restricted categories:

• Used or waste batteries (lead-acid, lithium-ion, nickel-based, etc.)
• E-waste and electronic components (used computers, mobile phones, PCBs, etc.)
• Plastic waste, pellets, and mixed scrap
• Hazardous materials (metal ash, sludges, chemical residues)

These goods are controlled not to block trade, but to ensure they don’t harm the environment or public health once they enter India.

Step 1 – Identify Your Product and Check Its Import Policy

Before importing anything, go to the DGFT ITC (HS) Classification portal and search your product’s HS code.

If the import policy says:

• “Free” → You’re good to go.
• “Restricted” → You’ll need DGFT authorization before shipping.

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.

Step 2 – Gather Parallel Environmental Approvals

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.

Step 3 – Apply for DGFT Authorization Online

Once your environmental permissions are ready, log in to the DGFT Import Management System and file your application.

You’ll be asked to provide:

• IEC and company PAN
• Details of the product and its HS code
• Purpose of import (recycling, reuse, manufacturing, research, etc.)
• Supporting NOCs from CPCB or MoEFCC
• Country of origin and supplier details

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.

Step 4 – Fulfill Post-Import Labelling & EPR Requirements

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:

• Battery Importers: Must print or engrave their EPR registration number as a barcode or QR code on every battery, pack, or bulk container.
• Plastic Packaging Importers: Must include a scannable code linking to their CPCB EPR profile.
• Electronics Importers: Must register as “Producers” under the E-Waste Rules and report annual sales through the EPR portal.

These requirements make every imported product traceable — from port entry to end-of-life recycling — strengthening India’s circular economy goals.

Step 5 – Avoid the Common Pitfalls

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.

The Cost of Non-Compliance

Importing restricted goods without the right authorization can trigger serious consequences:

• Shipment confiscation or re-export orders by Customs
• Environmental penalties ranging from ₹1–10 lakh per consignment
• Suspension of IEC or EPR registration for repeated violations
• Blacklisting on DGFT or CPCB portals, affecting future business

Beyond penalties, the biggest risk is brand reputation — being seen as a non-compliant or “polluting” importer can jeopardize partnerships and financing.

Why Proactive Authorization Helps Your Business

Think of compliance not as a burden, but as a growth enabler. Businesses that secure their authorizations early:

• Clear Customs faster (often within 10–15 days)
• Earn credibility with recyclers, brands, and regulators
• Avoid costly demurrage and penalty disputes
• Build trust with investors and clients who prioritize sustainability

In short — proactive DGFT and EPR compliance turns red tape into a business advantage.

How Green Permits Can Help

At Green Permits Consulting, we handle the process from start to finish:

• Classifying your product under the right HS code
• Applying for DGFT Import Authorization and liaising with EFC
• Coordinating MoEFCC and CPCB permissions
• Setting up your EPR registration and barcode system

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.