Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) has released a Stand-ard Operating Procedure (SOP) for obtaining export authorizations for restricted seeds and planting materials. This aims to streamline trade processes and reduce approval time. Exporters must provide detailed specifications of seeds or planting materials, raw material sources, and affidavits affirming compliance with the Biological Diversity Act, 2002, and that no Indian germplasm is used.
For seeds intended for sowing, exporters must also hold a valid license under the Seed Control Order, 1983, and declare that exported seeds are chemically treated and unfit for human consumption. Packets must be labeled accordingly. For non-sowing purposes, such as rice husk exports, affidavits must confirm that the material is neither intended for sowing nor qualifies as breeder or certified seed and is solely for consumption.
This SOP applies to specific items like onion seeds (HS Code: 12099130) and rice of seed quality (HS Code: 10061010). Exporters must adhere to the conditions outlined in prior notifications, including Notification No. 23/2015-2020. The Trade Notice is intended to ensure regulatory compliance and facilitate smoother export operations for restricted agricultural products.
Government of India
Ministry of Commerce & Industry
Department of Commerce
Directorate General of Foreign Trade
Trade Notice No. 26/2024-25- DGFT| Dated: 30th December 2024
To,
1. All Exporters Concerned
2. Export Promotion Councils (EPCs)
3. All Regional Authorities of DGFT
Subject: Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for Export Authorisations for Restricted Seeds and Planting Materials – reg.
To facilitate trade, reduce turnaround time for obtaining export authorizations, and streamline the process for export of seeds and planting materials categorised as ‘Restricted’, the following Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) has been formulated. Manufacturers/exporters are required to adhere to the SOP while filing applications with DGFT for Export Authorization:
(A) Export of Seeds (for Sowing Purposes) and Planting Materials
1. Product Specifications:
Applicants must submit detailed specifications of the seed/planting material intended for export, along with its source.
2. Raw Materials:
Details of raw materials used in the production of the seed must be provided.
3. Specific Affidavit Requirements:
- An affidavit on stamp paper from the firm confirming that no Indian germplasm has been used in developing the seed. Examples of exportable items include: Onion Seed (HS Code: 12099130), Rice in Husk (Paddy or Rough) of Seed Quality (HS Code 10061010).
- A conditional affidavit confirming that the exported material is proprietary and complies with the Biological Diversity Act, 2002.
4. For Export of Seed Quality:
An affidavit is required to confirm compliance with conditions out-lined in Notification No. 23/2015-2020 dated October 7, 2015. The key conditions are as follows:
a. A license to carry on the business of a dealer in seeds issued under Section 3 of the Seed Control Order (1983) from the State Government.
b. Declaration that the exported seed consignment has been chemi-cally treated and is not fit for human consumption.
c. Export packets must be labelled to indicate that the seeds are treat-ed with chemical insecticides and are not for food or feed purposes.
(B) Export of Seeds (for Non-Sowing Purposes):
For non-sowing purposes (e.g., Rice Paddy or Husk, Non-Basmati Rice under HS Code 10061090), the applicant must submit an affidavit stating:
- The exported material is not intended for sowing or planting and is neither breeder seed/ foundation seed nor certified seed.
- The material is meant solely for consumption purposes.
This Trade Notice is issued with the approval of the Competent Authority.
(Pratibha Kumari)
Deputy Director General of Foreign Trade
[Issued from File No.: 01/91/180/14/AM-25/EC-40625]
