The Legal Metrology Packaged Commodities (LMPC) certificate is a critical requirement for businesses involved in the import, sale, and distribution of pre-packed commodities in India. By ensuring compliance with the Legal Metrology Act of 2009, businesses not only uphold fair trade practices but also boost consumer confidence.
Registration under the Legal Metrology Act 2009 establishes a strong impression of consumer awareness and reduction of unfair trade practices pertaining to such products. The practice of correct measurement of commodities assists the manufacturer in managing inventory effectively.
The LMPC Import License encourages healthy trade practices by maintaining a level playing field among importers.
Understanding The Importance of Legal Metrology In Modern Trade
The Department of Consumer Affairs defines Legal metrology as that part of metrology that treats units of weight and measurement, methods of weighing and measurement, and weighing and measuring instruments, in relation to the mandatory technical and legal requirements that have the object of ensuring public guarantee from the point of view of security and accuracy of the weights and measurements.
The Legal Metrology Act, 2009 is an act to establish and enforce standards of weights and measures and regulate trade and commerce in weights, measures, and other goods which are sold or distributed by weights, measure, or number and for matters connected therewith or incidental thereto.
The following are the main points of the Act:
All weights and measures must be in conformity with the metric system, which is based on the international system of units. The base of unit of –
- Length shall be the metre
- Mass shall be the kilogram;
- Time shall be the second;
- Electric current should be the ampere;
- Thermodynamic temperature shall be the Kelvin;
- Luminous intensity should be the candela; and
- Amount of substance shall be the mole.
When consumers buy pre-packaged goods from the market, they have the right to know the details of the product including the weight of the package, price, expiry date, etc. In this way, legal metrology plays a crucial role in promoting fair trade practices.
Other usefulness of legal metrology in modern trade include the following:
- Trade Promotion through Dispute Elimination: Trade disputes are eliminated through regulatory control over measurement. When a customer buys one kilogram of sugar, for instance, they should receive precisely that amount in the package—no less. Legal metrology also guarantees that the right measurement equipment is used and that international standards are met.
- Efficient Inventory Management: Accurate measuring of commodities provides manufacturers with a precise inventory structure.
- Collection of Government Revenues: The majority of government revenue is derived from the collection of excise and customs charges. Measurement plays an important role in the collection of government revenue. Products manufactured within the country are subject to excise duty, whilst commodities imported from other nations are subject to customs duty. Thus, accurate weighing of goods ensures the collection of these Government revenues in a bona fide manner.
Also read: How to Start an Export Business in India: A Comprehensive Guide
What Is LMPC Certificate?
The Legal Metrology Packaged Commodities certificate, or LMPC certificate for short, is a mandatory requirement to import pre-packaged items. All packers and importers of pre-packaged commodities are required by the Legal Metrology Act, 2009, to register under the 27th rule of the Legal Metrology Packaged Commodities Rules, 2011. Within 90 days of starting import operations, applications must be submitted for this registration.
Getting an LMPC accreditation entails handling products with precise measurements authentically and accurately. Nonetheless, packers importing agricultural items weighing more than 50 kg and packers of commodities weighing 10 grams/milliliter or less are not required to obtain the LMPC certificate.
Why Is LMPC Certification Crucial?
- Consumer Trust: Registration under the LMPC demonstrates commitment to transparency and consumer rights.
- Regulatory Compliance: Helps avoid legal issues and penalties associated with non-compliance, fostering a more stable business environment.
Key Highlights of the LMPC Certificate:
- Scope: Mandatory for all importers and manufacturers dealing with pre-packaged commodities.
- Benefits: Assures consumers about the accuracy of quantity and price, reducing disputes and enhancing brand reputation.
- Requirement: Critical for maintaining standardized practices in packaging and labeling as per national regulations.
Application Process Simplified:
- Preparation: Gather necessary documents including GST registration, identity proof, and details about the commodities.
- Application: Submit your application through the state’s dedicated online portal or at the Legal Metrology Department office if online application is not available.
- Fees and Processing: A nominal fee of Rs. 500 is required. The process typically takes up to 20 days.
Documents Needed for LMPC Certification:
- Identity and address proof
- GST registration certificate
- Aadhaar number
- Passport-size photograph
- Importer-Exporter Code (IEC)
- Declaration sample of the packaging
Details An Importer/Manufacturer Needs To Provide On Pre-Packaged Commodities:
An importer/manufacturer is mandated make a declaration on all pre-packaged commodities with the below-mentioned information:
- Name and address of importer and manufacturer
- General name of goods contained in the package
- Country of import
- Total quantity with respect to standard units of measurement or weights
- Date of import and manufacture
- Maximum Retail Price (MRP)
- Size and dimension of the goods
- Contact details of the concerned person or office in case of any consumer complaints.
It is mandatory to stick with the given structure to be displayed on the packaging.
The declaration can be printed either in Hindi or English. A violation of the Legal Metrology Packaged Commodity Rules will make you subject to a penalty or fine which can extend up to Rs. 4,000. Furthermore, an importer will be charged a late fee if they apply for an LMPC certificate more than ninety days after they start importing.
How to Apply for LMPC Certificates?
In the majority of states, applicants can apply for LMPC certificates online using the state government’s dedicated portal. The following information must be completed at the time of application:
- The applicant’s name
- The generic name of the pre-packaged or imported good
- The address of the location where the product is going to be imported
When applying, candidates must have the necessary paperwork together with the registration cost. The online application promotes hassle-free, paperless processes, which saves a significant amount of time.
However, importers or producers can visit the Legal Metrology Department office with the required documents in states where the online application process is not available.
Documents Required To Get LMPC Certificates
The list of documents required for LMPC registration in India include:
- Identity and address proof
- Certificate of GST registration
- Aadhaar number
- Applicant’s passport-size photograph
- IEC or Importer-Exporter Code
- Declaration sample to be tagged along with the goods
- For a company, a copy of a memorandum of articles needs to be attached
For a partnership company, a copy of the registered partnership deed needs to be attached. However, one should note that the required documents for LMPC registration may vary across states. For instance, in Delhi, applicants need to provide extra paperwork such as a trade license, packing labels that are applied to the parcels, evidence of any commercial space, etc.
Online Application Fee For LMPC Certificate:
A nominal fee of Rs. 500 must be submitted by importers, packers, and manufacturers in order to complete the online application process for LMPC certificates.
The registration authority receives the application, checks the supporting documentation, and issues the certificate. Additionally, the review procedure typically takes 20 days.
Why Partner with OneNDF?
At OneNDF, we understand the intricacies of regulatory compliance. Our experts can guide you through the LMPC certification process, ensuring that your business meets all the necessary legal requirements without hassle. By partnering with us, you ensure that your business operations are smooth, compliant, and trustworthy.
Suggested Reads:
- What Is Export Credit Guarantee Corporation (ECGC) And How Is It Important For MSME Sector?
- Export Finance Explained: A comprehensive Guide
FAQs:
Who issues LMPC certificate?
LMPC certificates may be issued by the Director of Legal Metrology at the Center as well as the Controller of Legal Metrology in the State.
How much time would it take to obtain a certificate from LMPC?
A maximum of 20 days from the application’s receipt date.
What is the disclosure requirement on the pre-packaged commodities?
- Name and address of importer and manufacturer
- General name of goods contained in the package
- Country of import
- Total quantity with respect to standard units of measurement or weights
- Date of import and manufacture
- Maximum Retail Price (MRP)
- Size and dimension of the goods
- Contact details of the concerned person or office in case of any consumer complaints.
