India Extended Producer Responsibility Regulations: What UK exporters need to know

Breaking into India’s booming market? India’s robust Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) regulations are reshaping packaging, labelling, and waste management rules for imported goods.


Did you know India generates over 3.5 million tonnes of plastic waste annually? With rapid industrial growth, the government has responded with robust Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) regulations, making compliance essential for businesses aiming to enter or scale in this booming market.

If you’re a UK exporter targeting India, understanding these rules is key to avoiding costly disruptions, delays, or legal penalties.

 

What India’s EPR Regulations mean for exporters

As India’s economy grows, so does its commitment to sustainability. The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) has introduced EPR regulations across several waste categories, starting with plastic, electronics, and batteries. These regulations are part of India’s broader waste management strategy.

 

Categories covered under India’s EPR Regulations

Plastic Waste Management Rules apply to:

  • Rigid plastic
  • Flexible plastic
  • Multi-layered plastic
  • Plastic sheets used for packaging

New EPR legislation coming in April 2026 is expected to expand this to include paper, glass, and metal packaging.

Learn more from the official MoEFCC website for regulatory updates.

Container Ship

India EPR: What UK exporters need to know

Did you know India generates over 3.5 million tonnes of plastic waste annually? With rapid industrial growth, the government has responded with robust Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) regulations, making compliance essential for businesses aiming to enter or scale in this booming market.

If you’re a UK exporter targeting India, understanding these rules is key to avoiding costly disruptions, delays, or legal penalties.

Packaging labelling requirements

All plastic packaging must include:

  • Producer/Importer/Brand Owner name
  • EPR Registration Certificate Number

This can be displayed via QR codes, barcodes, or in product brochures.

 

Key EPR obligations for businesses

To comply, Producers, Importers, and Brand Owners (PIBOs) must:

  • Register with the Central or State Pollution Control Boards
  • Submit an Action Plan for meeting targets
  • Organise waste collection, individually or via a PRO
  • File annual returns
  • Pay EPR-related fees based on volumes placed on the market

 

UK exporters – What you need to know

If you’re a UK exporter with an Indian subsidiary, these rules will likely apply. Even smaller enterprises must register if selling into India. Exemptions exist, but are limited.

 

Valpak can help

India’s Extended Producer Responsibility Regulations present both a challenge and an opportunity for UK exporters. With new compliance demands, it’s essential to stay informed, prepared, and ahead of evolving international rules.

Here’s how you can stay compliant and avoid penalties:

Book a Textile EPR Assessment
Sign up for Textile Horizon Scanning alerts