What is EPR (Extended Producer Responsibility)?
Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) is a government-backed environmental policy that holds producers, importers, and brand owners responsible for the management and disposal of products they introduce into the market, especially after their end-of-life.
In India, the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC) is the key authority regulating the EPR framework.
Who Needs an EPR Certificate?
If you fall under any of the following categories and you’re importing products into India, you need an EPR Certificate:
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Producers and Importers of:
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Electrical & Electronic Equipment (EEE) – E-waste rules
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Plastic Packaging – PWM rules
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Batteries – Battery Waste Management Rules
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Tyres – Tyre Waste Management
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Brand Owners selling under their own name using third-party manufacturing
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Online sellers/importers of products regulated under EPR laws
Why is an EPR Certificate Mandatory for Import?
Importing regulated products without an EPR Certificate can lead to:
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Customs clearance delays
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Heavy penalties or fines
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Seizure of goods
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Revocation of import licenses
Since the Government of India mandates EPR registration for environmentally hazardous imports, having this certificate is essential not only for legal operations but also to build credibility in the marketplace.
Types of EPR Registration in India
At Agile Regulatory, we assist importers in obtaining the following types of EPR Certificates:
1. EPR for Plastic Waste
Applicable to importers of plastic packaging (rigid, flexible, multilayered, etc.). Covered under Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016 (amended in 2022).
2. EPR for E-Waste
Applicable to importers of electronic and electrical equipment such as laptops, printers, mobile phones, etc. Covered under E-Waste Management Rules, 2022.
3. EPR for Battery Waste
Required for importers of rechargeable or non-rechargeable batteries. Regulated under the Battery Waste Management Rules, 2022.
4. EPR for Tyre Waste
Mandatory for importers dealing in tyres, especially for vehicles. Rules are evolving, and registration under CPCB norms is needed.
How Agile Regulatory Helps You Get EPR Certified
Getting an EPR Certificate involves extensive documentation, portal filings, coordination with CPCB officials, and an understanding of the applicable waste management rules. Agile Regulatory offers a complete service package that includes:
✔️ Eligibility Assessment
We evaluate your product category and help you identify the applicable EPR framework.
✔️ Documentation Support
Our team prepares and compiles all required documents, including:
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Importer Exporter Code (IEC)
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GST Registration
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Product details with images/specs
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Company PAN and address proof
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Authorization letters
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Recycling agreement (for EPR targets)
✔️ Application Filing
We submit the EPR application to CPCB’s online portal and handle all correspondence.
✔️ Follow-ups and Approval
We follow up with CPCB officials, respond to queries, and ensure you receive the EPR Certificate without delays.
✔️ Annual Compliance Assistance
After the EPR Certificate is issued, you are required to fulfill annual EPR obligations. We help you file returns and manage your recycling targets through authorized PROs (Producer Responsibility Organizations).
Step-by-Step Process for EPR Certificate for Import
Here’s how we simplify the process for you:
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Free Consultation We understand your business and import products to determine EPR applicability.
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Document Collection You submit the basic business documents, and we prepare your application file.
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Online Application Filing Submission of your application on the CPCB EPR portal.
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Follow-up and CPCB Clarifications We handle the review process and address any objections or clarifications.
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Certificate Issuance Once approved, your EPR Certificate is emailed and uploaded on the CPCB portal.
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Post-Certification Compliance We help you prepare EPR action plans, coordinate with recyclers, and meet reporting requirements.
Documents Required for EPR Certificate for Import
Below is a standard list of documents you’ll need:
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IEC Certificate
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GST Certificate
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Company PAN Card
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Company Incorporation Certificate
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Product List with HSN codes
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Product Photographs
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Details of Waste Generation (estimated)
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Duly signed authorization letter
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Agreement with Recycler or PRO
Note: Additional documents may be required depending on the type of product and EPR category.
Timeline and Validity
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Approval Time: 15 to 45 working days (depending on CPCB workload and product category)
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Validity: Usually valid for 1 year, with annual renewal and obligation reporting
Cost of EPR Registration in India
The cost for EPR Certification depends on:
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Type of EPR category (Plastic/E-Waste/Battery)
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Number of products
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Recycling volume or targets
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Engagement with PROs
At Agile Regulatory, we offer customized and competitive pricing with no hidden charges. Contact us for a free quote.
Why Choose Agile Regulatory?
With 12+ years of experience and a dedicated team of legal and environmental compliance professionals, Agile Regulatory has become a trusted name for EPR Certification across India. Here’s what sets us apart:
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✅ Personalized assistance from start to finish
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✅ In-depth knowledge of CPCB procedures
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✅ Quick turnaround time
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✅ Transparent pricing
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✅ Pan-India service coverage
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
❓ Is EPR registration mandatory for importers?
Yes, if you’re importing plastic-packaged goods, electronics, batteries, or tyres, you must have an EPR Certificate before customs clearance.
❓ Can I import without EPR registration?
No. Importing without EPR registration may result in your goods being seized or delayed at customs.
❓ How long does it take to get an EPR Certificate?
It usually takes between 15 to 45 working days depending on the product category and the CPCB review.
❓ Do I need to renew my EPR Certificate?
Yes, most EPR Certificates are valid for one year and must be renewed with fresh data and recycling targets.
Get Your EPR Certificate with Ease – Contact Agile Regulatory
Whether you are a first-time importer or an established business, our team is here to guide you through every step of the EPR certification process. Don’t let compliance slow down your import operations.
