Customs to Enforce ISPM-15 Standards for Wood Packaging in Imports and Exports; Non-compliance May Lead to Penalties.

The circular addresses the enforcement of phytosanitary requirements in the import and export of goods, focusing on compliance with International Standards for Phytosanitary Measures No. 15 (ISPM-15) for wood packaging materials. It highlights the necessity for goods with solid wood packaging to be treated and marked according to ISPM-15 standards, or to be accompanied by a phytosanitary certificate. Non-compliance has led to notifications from countries, particularly in the EU, regarding exports from India. Customs officials are instructed to verify compliance and refer non-compliant consignments to Plant Quarantine authorities for appropriate action.