What is an EPR Certificate?
The Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Certificate is an official approval issued by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). It ensures that producers and importers take full responsibility for the environmentally safe disposal of their products after consumer use.
When it comes to imports, you are considered a “producer” under EPR laws. So, even if you didn’t manufacture the product, you are responsible for its post-consumer waste once it enters the Indian market.
Why is the EPR Certificate Required for Importers?
If you’re importing any of the following products into India, you’re required by law to get EPR certification:
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Electronic items (laptops, mobile phones, TVs, refrigerators, etc.)
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Plastic packaging materials (bags, wrappers, containers)
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Batteries (all types — lithium-ion, lead-acid, etc.)
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Tyres (new or used)
The purpose of this rule is to control the rising waste problem in India. The government wants to ensure that companies bringing in these products are accountable for their recycling or proper disposal.
Legal Framework Behind EPR in India
The following rules govern EPR requirements:
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Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016 (Amended in 2022)
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E-Waste Management Rules, 2022
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Battery Waste Management Rules, 2022
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CPCB Guidelines on Waste Tyres, 2022
Under each of these, importers are treated on par with domestic manufacturers and are required to register with CPCB before bringing goods into the country.
Common Challenges Faced by Importers
Many importers run into problems because they aren’t aware of the EPR requirement or don’t know how to apply properly. Common issues include:
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Shipment delays due to missing EPR documentation at customs
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Application rejection due to incorrect documents
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Confusion about which EPR category applies to the imported product
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Not knowing how to tie up with a registered recycler or PRO (Producer Responsibility Organisation)
That’s where Agile Regulatory comes in.
How Agile Regulatory Helps
At Agile Regulatory, we simplify the process from start to finish:
✅ Category Assessment – We help you identify the correct EPR category based on your products
✅ Documentation Support – Our team prepares and verifies every document to avoid rejection
✅ Portal Registration – We handle the CPCB online application and submission process
✅ PRO/Recycler Tie-Up – We help you partner with authorized waste management companies
✅ End-to-End Guidance – From application to certificate issuance and annual return filing
Step-by-Step Process to Get Your EPR Certificate
Here’s how Agile Regulatory ensures a smooth and error-free registration:
Step 1: Initial Assessment
We review your business activities, product details, and volume to determine the applicable EPR category.
Step 2: Document Collection
Our team assists you in preparing:
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Company PAN, GST, and IEC
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Certificate of Incorporation
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Details and HSN codes of imported products
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Purchase invoices
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Aadhaar/PAN of the authorized person
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PRO agreement (if applicable)
Step 3: Online Registration with CPCB
We create your account on the CPCB portal and file your EPR application, along with all required documents.
Step 4: Liaison and Response
If CPCB raises queries or asks for additional documents, we respond on your behalf and ensure timely follow-up.
Step 5: Issuance of Certificate
Once approved, your EPR Certificate will be available online — ready to be used for customs clearance and future compliance.
Who Needs an EPR Certificate?
You’ll need an EPR Certificate if you are:
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An importer of electronics, plastics, batteries, or tyres
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A manufacturer or brand owner selling packaged goods
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A startup or e-commerce company importing consumer electronics or gadgets
What Happens If You Don’t Have an EPR Certificate?
Not having an EPR Certificate can cause serious disruptions:
🚫 Customs can block your shipments
⚠️ CPCB can impose financial penalties
📉 Your import-export code (IEC) could be suspended
💼 Reputational risk with customers and suppliers
The earlier you act, the better. With Agile Regulatory, you stay on the safe side of the law — without the hassle.
Timeline and Validity
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Processing Time: Usually 15–30 working days
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Certificate Validity: 1 year (subject to renewal)
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Annual Returns: Must be filed on CPCB portal showing compliance with waste recycling targets
We also assist with renewals and compliance reporting, so you never miss a deadline.
Documents Checklist for Importer EPR Registration
To speed up the process, you’ll need to keep the following documents ready:
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Import Export Code (IEC)
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Company PAN & GST Certificate
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Product list with specifications
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Proof of import (invoice/bill of entry)
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Details of authorized signatory
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Agreement with PRO or Recycler
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Photos of the imported items
Need help getting these ready? Agile Regulatory’s document team has you covered.
Why Choose Agile Regulatory?
We understand that regulatory processes can be confusing. That’s why we offer a personal, step-by-step approach. When you work with Agile Regulatory, you get:
🌐 One-stop solution – EPR, BIS, company registration, and more
👨💼 Experienced consultants – Over 5 years of hands-on experience
📄 Error-free documentation – We catch mistakes before they happen
💬 Responsive support – We’re here whenever you need us
