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LMPC Registration or Legal Metrology Packaged Commodity Registration is mandatory for any individual, firm, company, or organization involved in the import, manufacture, or packaging of pre-packaged commodities in India. LMPC Registration is granted by the Department of Legal Metrology under the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution.
The purpose of LMPC registration is to ensure that pre-packaged commodities sold in India comply with the Legal Metrology (Packaged Commodities) Rules, 2011. These rules were framed to enforce the Legal Metrology Act of 2009. Additionally, State Governments have formulated their respective Legal Metrology (Enforcement) Rules to further bolster the implementation of the Act. The Legal Metrology Rules regulate the weights and measures used in trade and commerce, as well as packaging and labeling of pre-packaged commodities.
As defined in Section 2, Clause (l) of the Legal Metrology Act, 2009 “pre-packaged commodity” means a commodity which, without the purchaser being present, is placed in a package of any nature, whether sealed or not, so that the product contained therein has a predetermined quantity. In simple words, a pre-packaged commodity signifies a commodity that has been pre-packaged in the absence of the purchaser to give it a predetermined quantity.
According to the LMPC Rules, manufacturers, packers, and importers engaged in the sale, delivery, and distribution of pre-packaged commodities are required to obtain a Packaged Commodity Registration within 90 days from the initiation of pre-packaging operations.
As per the Legal Metrology (Packaged Commodities) Amendment Rules, 2017, in cases where LMPC registration applications are submitted beyond the 90-day window after the commencement of the importation process or from the date of initiation of pre-packaging operations, a late fee of Rs. 5000 will be levied.
Successful LMPC Registration hinges on meticulous LMPC documentation. To navigate the regulatory landscape effectively, it’s essential to assemble a comprehensive set of documents that demonstrate your commitment to compliance with legal metrology standards. These documents serve as the foundation for your application and inspection process, showcasing your business’s dedication to accurate packaging, proper measurements, and adherence to the Legal Metrology Act and Rules.
Documents For LMPC Registration in India | |
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To obtain an LMPC Certificate, applicants must submit an application form along with the required documents to the Department of Legal Metrology. The Department will then examine the application, inspect the applicant’s premises, and verify the compliance of packaging and labeling regulations. After being satisfied that all the requirements are met, the department will issue an LMPC certificate to the applicant.
The first step for LMPC (Legal Metrology Packaged Commodity) Registration begins with the submission of your application to the respective district office of Legal Metrology in your state. Provide all necessary information to complete the application. Ensure accuracy of information to avoid any delays or rejections.
Attach copies of essential documents necessary for registration. We have discussed a complete list of these documents above. Make sure they are filed in their correct and updated formats for a hassle free process. At Setindiabiz, we provide complete documentation assistance to our clients. You can contact our experts for further guidance.
Proceed to pay the prescribed LMPC registration fees, as stipulated by the relevant authorities. For the fiscal year 2023-24, packers are required to submit a registration fee of Rs 500. It’s important to ensure that you have the exact amount ready, taking into account potential variations in processing fees.
Upon submission, your LMPC registration application will be subjected to a meticulous review process overseen by the Director of Metrology. Be vigilant for email notifications that will convey the status of your application—whether it has been accepted or rejected. Should any inaccuracies or omissions be identified, incomplete applications will be promptly returned to you within 7 days for necessary rectification.
If your application successfully clears the initial review, an inspector will be designated to conduct an on-site inspection of your premises. This inspection is designed to ascertain compliance with the Legal Metrology Act and Rules, ensuring that your packaging and weighing processes adhere to the regulatory standards.
The assigned inspector will furnish a comprehensive report detailing their findings during the inspection. This report may also include recommendations for improvements to achieve or maintain compliance with legal metrology requirements.
Based on the inspection report and your demonstrated compliance with the Legal Metrology Act and Rules, your application will advance towards the issuance of the LMPC certificate. Once approved, you will receive your LMPC certificate, granting you the legal authority to package and sell your commodities in accordance with the established standards and regulations. The Certificate will be valid for a period of five years. LMPC Renewal is required after every five years. For this, the applicant must file the renewal application to the Department of Legal Metrology.
After receiving the LMPC Certificate, the applicant must consistently fulfill all the compliances and regulations mentioned in the LMPC Rules of 2011. These are related to the packaging and labeling of pre-packaged products with the mandatory declarations mentioned on them. Moreover, not all LMPC Rules apply to every license holder. There are a few exemptions which you must be aware of. Given below is a complete list of LMPC compliances and exemptions to help you understand better.
The Legal Metrology (Packaged Commodities) Rules, 2011, set forth crucial requirements for declarations on pre-packaged commodities in India. These declarations serve multiple purposes, including consumer information, transparency, and product authenticity. Here’s a complete list of these declarations for your reference.
Moreover, depending on the nature of the commodity, specific requirements apply. For instance, package of food products and non food products must have the following declarations:
Food Products | Non-Food Products |
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All declarations on pre-packaged commodities must be easily readable, visible, and presented in Hindi or English, or both languages, to cater to a wider audience.
The Legal Metrology (Packaged Commodities) Rules, 2011, provide specific exemptions from the regulations. These exemptions are based on quantity, pricing, and nature of the commodity involved. It’s important to be aware of these exemptions, as they outline cases where the LMPC rules do not apply.
Certain medical commodities, including scheduled formulations and non-scheduled formulations covered under the Drugs (Price Control) Order, 2013, made under section 3 of the Essential Commodities Act, 1955, are exempt from LMPC regulations. It’s important to note that no exemption applies to medical devices declared as drugs.
Rule 6(1)(e) of the Legal Metrology (Packaged Commodities) Rules, 2011, mandates that the retail sale price of a package must be clearly labeled as the maximum retail price, inclusive of all taxes, in Indian currency.
Obtaining an LMPC (Legal Metrology Packaged Commodity) Certificate is more than just legal compliance; it’s a strategic advantage for businesses. This certification ensures accurate product packaging and measurements, fostering consumer trust, expanding market opportunities, and shielding your business from potential penalties. It also underscores your commitment to quality and provides a competitive edge in the marketplace.
Ensure your business operates within the confines of the law by obtaining an LMPC Certificate, demonstrating your commitment to adhering to legal metrology regulations. This not only keeps you on the right side of the law but also helps you avoid legal complications and potential penalties.
Build trust and confidence among consumers regarding your products and services. When customers see the LMPC Certificate, they are more likely to trust that your products are accurately measured and properly packaged, enhancing your brand's reputation.
Explore new markets and opportunities for growth with the LMPC Certificate in hand. Compliance with legal metrology standards allows you to access and expand into markets that require such certification, broadening your business horizons.
Prevent government-imposed penalties and fines due to non-compliance with legal metrology regulations. Obtaining the LMPC Certificate helps you avoid costly legal consequences that can arise from violations of packaging, weight, and measurement standards.
Demonstrate your commitment to delivering high-quality products. The LMPC Certificate serves as evidence that your packaging and measurements meet established standards, assuring customers that they are getting reliable and accurately measured products.
Gain a competitive edge in the market by displaying the LMPC Certificate prominently. This certificate signals to consumers that your products are compliant with legal requirements, potentially attracting more customers and business opportunities while distinguishing your brand from non-certified competitors.