Overview of LMPC Certification:

Under Section 27 of the Legal Metrology (Packaged Commodities) Rules 2011, it is mandatory for all entities involved in the handling of the pre-packing or importation of pre-packaged commodities intended for sale, distribution or delivery to secure an LMPC Certification.

This requirement applies universally to individuals, firms, Hindu Undivided Families (HUFs), societies, companies or corporations engaged in this kind of activities. The certification ensures compliance with statutory regulations regarding accurate declarations, proper labeling and adherence to prescribed measurement standards for the commodities, thereby safeguarding consumer interests and promoting fair trade practices.

Legal Metrology in general refers to the application to measurements and measuring instruments. The primary objective of the government is to ensure public assurance regarding the accuracy and security of measurements and weighments which are vital to the public interest as many of the products are used for day-to-day activities.

In the public interest the Director of Legal Metrology empowered as a statutory authority under the Legal Metrology Act 2009 is entrusted with the responsibility of overseeing and regulating inter-state trade and commerce involving weights, measures and pre-packaged commodities.

Definition:
"pre-packaged commodity" means a commodity which without the purchaser being present is placed in a package of whatever nature, whether sealed or not, so that the product contained therein has a pre-determined quantity.

Mandatory Declarations on MRP labels:
Every package must comply with the prescribed mandatory declarations such as:

1. 1. Name and address of the manufacturer or importer.
   2. Net quantity and weight.
   3. Maximum Retail Price (MRP).
   4. Country of Origin.
   5. Date of manufacture and expiry (if applicable).
   6. Consumer care details such as phone number or email etc.

These requirements are subject to variation based on different products and are updated periodically.

Benefits of LMPC Certification:

Obtaining an LMPC Import License Certification under the Legal Metrology Act 2009 offers several advantages:

1. Strengthened Brand Image:
   Compliance with legal metrology regulations reflects a company's commitment to quality, enhancing it’s reputation amongst consumers and trade partners.
2. Enhanced Consumer Confidence:
   Mandatory labeling and declarations instill trust in consumers about product quality, authenticity and compliance with legal standards.
3. Encouragement of Importation and Production:
   Promotes economic growth by fostering a regulated environment for trade and reducing hurdles for businesses entering the Indian market.
4. Reduction of Technical Barriers to Trade:
   Eliminates ambiguities in packaging and labeling, facilitating smoother transactions between stakeholders.
5. Improved Market Accessibility:
   Ensures that businesses can access a broader market by adhering to uniform regulatory requirements, opening opportunities in interstate and international trade.
6. Reduction in Transaction Costs:
   Streamlines the import process by ensuring compliance with regulatory norms, thereby reducing administrative and operational expenses.
7. Prevention of Fraudulent Practices:
   Discourages unfair trade practices by mandating accurate weights, measures and declarations, ensuring fair competition among businesses.
8. Alignment with Global Standards:
   Helps businesses align with international trade norms, enhancing their competitiveness in the global market.

Exemptions:

Certain types of packaged commodities or specific circumstances are exempted. These exemptions are designed to simplify compliance where the standard provisions may not be practical or necessary which are as below:

1. Small Packages: Packages with a net weight or measure of 10 grams or 10 milliliters or less (if sold by weight or measure) are exempt.
2. Fast Food Packaging: Packages containing fast food items packed by restaurants, hotels or similar establishments are exempt.
3. Drugs: Packages containing scheduled and non-scheduled formulations regulated by the Drugs (Price Control) Order 1995, under the Essential Commodities Act 1955, are exempt.
4. Agricultural Produce: Packages of agricultural produce weighing more than 50 kilograms are exempt.

Documents Required for LMPC Certification:

The following documents are mandatory for LMPC Import License Certification for businesses involved in importing pre-packaged goods:

For Authorized Signatory/Directors/Partners:

1. Digital signatures linked to the entity.
2. Self-attested Aadhaar and PAN cards of the authorized signatory.
3. Self-attested Aadhaar and PAN cards of all Directors/Partners.

For the Entity:

1. GST Registration Certificate, Importer-Exporter Code (IEC) and PAN card.
2. Certificate of Incorporation for companies or Partnership Deed for partnership firms.
3. Proof of premises (ownership or rent agreement).

For Product Registration:

1. List of products.
2. Sample MRP label for one product or the following details, if unavailable:
   • Product MRP.
   • Best-before date.
   • Net weight/quantity.
   • Country of origin.
   • Contact number, email and website details.

Should One apply for State or Center licence?

While the Legal Metrology framework allows for both state and central licenses, the choice to obtain the licence depends on the specific needs and administrative setup of the business. However, obtaining a central license is generally advisable as it provides nationwide coverage, eliminating the need for separate state-specific registrations for future growth.

A central license simplifies compliance and also facilitates business expansion across India which offers greater flexibility and access to broader market opportunities.

Fees:

For a customized and attractive quotation, please contact with your product details to Rekha Atri (+91 98118 03136) or Manju Laur (+91 9711994042).

Process to Apply for LMPC Certification:

03 simple steps can get you the LMPC Certificate:

1. Get in touch:
   • Reach Out: Begin by contacting us to initiate the certification process.
   • Document Compilation: We assist you in gathering all the necessary documents including company details, product information and the required declarations.
   • Application Preparation: Our team ensures the application is accurately completed and compliant with the applicable regulations to prevent errors or omissions that could lead to delays or rejection.
2. Upload documents:
   • Document Upload: Once the application is finalized, we upload it to the designated government portal for processing.
   • Fee Payment: The application must be submitted along with the prescribed fee of INR 500 as per the requirements of the Legal Metrology Department.
   • Assistance from iKargos: Our experts at iKargos streamline the submission process, ensuring all documents meet the standards set by the Legal Metrology department. This reduces the likelihood of rejection and minimizes processing time.
3. Grant of Certification:
   • Approval by Authorities: The relevant authority reviews the application.
   • Registration Complete: Upon approval, the authority registers the applicant's details including the name and address of the importer or entity in their official records.
   • Certificate Issuance: The Certification is then issued allowing the business to legally import and distribute pre-packaged goods in compliance.

Validity Period of LMPC Certification:

The LMPC License Certification has a lifetime validity.

Common Violations and Penalties:

1. Misleading Declarations:
   • Inaccurate weight, quantity or price labels.
   • Penalty: Up to ₹25,000 for first offense; up to ₹50,000 for subsequent offenses.
2. Failure to Obtain LMPC Certification:
   • Penalty: Up to ₹50,000 and prohibition on imports.
3. Tampering with Weights and Measures:
   • Penalty: Fines up to ₹1,00,000 and/or imprisonment.
4. Non-Renewal of Licenses:
   • Penalty: Prohibition on operations and potential fines.

Non-compliance with Legal Metrology laws not only leads to penalties but can also jeopardize the long-term viability of a business. Proactive adherence to the rules is essential for sustainable operations.

For assistance and customized quotes, you may contact Rekha Atri (+91 98118 03136) or Manju Laur (+91 9711994042) with product-specific details.