The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has formally initiated the implementation of the bilateral agreement signed with the Bhutan Food and Drug Authority (BFDA). The agreement mandates that all food products exported from Bhutan to India (except milk and milk products) must now be accompanied by a Health Certificate issued by the competent Bhutanese authority.

This significant step aims to ensure that imported food items from Bhutan meet India’s stringent safety and hygiene standards, aligning with the Food Safety and Standards (Licensing and Registration of Food Businesses) Regulations, 2011.

Health certificate now mandatory for Bhutanese food imports

Under the new implementation guidelines, food consignments from Bhutan intended for human consumption in India must include a Health Certificate confirming that the products:

• Were manufactured in FSSAI-compliant facilities approved by Bhutan’s competent authority.

• Comply with product-specific Indian food safety standards.

• Do not exceed permissible levels of contaminants such as pesticides, antibiotics, mycotoxins, and heavy metals.

• Contain only approved food additives as per FSSAI regulations.

• Meet microbiological criteria specified in Indian food laws.

• Have undergone regular inspections and monitoring aligned with the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.

The certificate remains valid for 45 days from the date of issuance and will be required at Indian ports of entry for clearance of consignments.

Exemptions

This health certification requirement does not apply to milk and milk products, which are covered under separate regulations and protocols.

Strengthening bilateral trade and consumer safety

This implementation reflects India’s commitment to improving food safety in imports while strengthening trade relations with neighboring Bhutan. The move is also expected to streamline documentation, improve traceability, and ensure higher consumer confidence in imported food products.

FSSAI urges all stakeholders involved in the import and distribution of food products from Bhutan to familiarize themselves with the new certification format and ensure compliance to avoid delays or rejections at Indian borders.