'Cannot Export Products Made for Sale in Indian Market': Health Regulator Issues Alert

Products made for the Indian market cannot be exported, the central health regulator has said in an alert issued to all of its port offices across India, asking them to watch the exports by merchant exporters, News18 has learnt.

While the notice does not mention the objective behind the move, two government officials told News18 that the aim is to curtail the unauthorised export of drugs to other countries, where they may not conform to prescribed standards.

The notice issued by the Drugs Controller General of India (DGCI) said: “It came to notice that products meant for Sale in India Only (as per label claim) are being exported by the merchant exporters.”

“This practice is to be stopped immediately,” said the notice issued by the head of the country’s apex health regulatory agency, the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO). “It is directed to ensure that the products meant for India Market only (as per label claim) should not be allowed for export.”

The notice marked to all port offices of CDSCO and all zonal and sub-zonal offices was highlighted for “information and necessary compliance”.

Safeguard Indian Product Reputation and Compliance

A senior official privy to the development told News18 that in some instances, such exported drugs may not pass required tests in foreign countries as they are not made to conform to standards outside India. “The move aims to prevent any negative implications on the perceived quality of Indian products apart from maintaining supply chain integrity and regulatory compliance,” he said.

Another official also cited the reasons for market authorisation leading to public health concerns. “Certain products may be authorised for sale in the Indian market only, and exporting them could violate licensing or authorisation agreements. The notice may serve as a reminder to adhere to these restrictions.”

“Also, specific health or safety concerns could be associated with the export of certain products. The notice may be issued to prevent potential risks to consumers in other countries.”

According to an industry veteran, the step will protect manufacturer exporters. “It’s a good step but needs more clarity and rule provisions to better implementation.”