The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) issued Notification No. 44/2026-27 dated 12 October 2026, amending the export policy for Prepared Culture Media under ITC (HS) Code 38210000. The notification clarifies the documentation procedure for exports where the importing country requires a Shipment Clearance Certificate and Health Certificate.
Export Policy for Prepared Culture Media
Under the notification, the export policy for Prepared Culture Media (ITC HS Code 38210000) remains Free. However, exporters may need to follow additional documentation requirements depending on the regulations of the importing country.
If the destination country mandates these certificates, exporters should arrange the required documents before shipment and comply with the applicable procedure.
Shipment Clearance Certificate and Health Certificate
The notification specifies the following requirements where applicable:
- Shipment Clearance Certificate: Issued consignment-wise by CAPEXIL, containing details such as exporter name and address, IEC, registered plant address, Plant Approval Number, product description, quantity, invoice number and date, port of loading, and destination.
- Health Certificate: After shipment, the exporter must provide a consignment-wise certificate to the buyer containing product details, HS Code, packaging, origin, destination, vessel name, departure date, and applicable health requirements.
- Issuing Authorities: The Health Certificate will be jointly issued by CAPEXIL and the Regional Animal Quarantine Officer, under the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, wherever the importing country requires or mandates it.
Exporters should verify the destination country’s requirements before proceeding with shipment documentation.
What Should Exporters Do?
Businesses exporting Prepared Culture Media should review the import regulations of their destination market and confirm whether the relevant certificates are required. They should also ensure that consignment details, invoice information, IEC, plant approval details, and shipping documents are accurate and consistent.
Following the applicable DGFT export policy and destination-country requirements can help exporters avoid documentation delays and shipment clearance issues.
Conclusion
DGFT Notification No. 44/2026-27 dated 12 October 2026 provides a framework for issuing Shipment Clearance Certificates and Health Certificates for Prepared Culture Media exports wherever required by the importing country. Although the export policy remains Free, exporters should verify the applicable documentation requirements before shipping.
For assistance with DGFT compliance, export documentation, and EXIM consultancy, contact DGFT EXIM Consultants.