EPR Plastic Registration in India: Process, Documents and Latest 2026 Updates

EPR Plastic Registration is an important compliance requirement for eligible businesses involved in plastic packaging, manufacturing, importing, and selling packaged products in India. Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) makes regulated businesses responsible for managing plastic packaging waste under applicable environmental regulations.

Under the Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016, and subsequent amendments, Producers, Importers and Brand Owners (PIBOs), along with other specified entities, must identify their applicable obligations and obtain registration through the prescribed Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) or State Pollution Control Board (SPCB) process.

Who Needs EPR Plastic Registration?

Depending on the applicable rules, eligible producers of plastic packaging, importers of packaged goods, brand owners, and plastic waste processors may need registration and must fulfil relevant EPR obligations. Certain manufacturers and importers of plastic raw materials may also be covered. Eligibility and exemptions should be checked before applying.

Documents Required for EPR Plastic Registration

Commonly required documents include PAN, business registration details, GST information where applicable, registered office proof, authorised representative details, plastic packaging categories, packaging quantities, and other declarations requested through the official portal.

EPR Plastic Registration Process

First, identify your business category and applicable EPR requirements. Next, access the official CPCB Common EPR Portal and complete the relevant application. Submit the required documents and packaging information, respond to queries raised by the authorities, and obtain registration after approval. Registered businesses must maintain accurate records and meet applicable recycling, recycled-content, and annual reporting obligations.

Latest EPR Plastic Registration Updates in 2026

1. Common EPR Portal: From 28 June 2026, the earlier standalone Plastic EPR Portal was discontinued for operations. Existing users must verify their migrated data on the Common EPR Portal.

2. Plastic Waste Management Amendment Rules, 2026: Notified on 31 March 2026, the amendments address recycled plastic packaging requirements, labelling, and related compliance provisions.

3. Recycled plastic content targets: For 2026–27, the prescribed minimum targets are 40% for Category I rigid packaging, 10% for Category II flexible packaging, and 5% for Category III multilayered packaging, subject to applicable conditions and exemptions.

4. Importer certificate clarification: CBIC Instruction No. 15/2026-Customs, dated 9 September 2026, clarified the treatment of covered importer certificates displaying one-year validity.