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Smuggling in India Report 2024-25 102

Case 7: 48.70 MT substandard cosmetics seized at Vallarpadam
FTWZ, Kochi

In August 2024, DRI uncovered a major case of fraudulent cosmetic
imports at Vallarpadam FTWZ, Kochi, seizing 28 MT of “Skin Tightening
Gel” and “Dark Circle Essence” found in violation of import provisions. A
follow-up operation led to the detection of another 20.70 MT of substan-
dard cosmetics, deemed unfit for
human use by a certified Drugs
Inspector, and seized under the
Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940, and
Cosmetics Rules, 2020.

Safeguarding Foodstuě, Securing Health – Agricultural
Produce

To protect public health and the local ecosystem, imported agricultural products
in India are required to meet rigorous health and safety standards as outlined in
the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, and the Plant Quarantine (Regulation of
Import into India) Order, 2003. DRI seized substantial quantities of agricultural
items, including fresh garlic, areca nuts, and black pepper, which were either
smuggled or misdeclared to bypass these regulatory requirements.

a. Smuggling of Areca Nuts

Areca nut (betel nut) faces rising smuggling driven by high domestic demand and
cheaper foreign alternatives. Illicit imports from neighboring countries disrupt
local markets despite a mandated minimum import price. DRI has uncovered mul-
tiple smuggling cases, particularly along the Myanmar and Bangladesh borders, as
well as major ports like Chennai, Kolkata, Mumbai, and Tuticorin.

In FY 2024–25, the DRI effected 27 seizures of areca nuts, recovering a total of
4,613 MT valued at ₹234 crore across various ports in India.

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