The Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) has mapped its port offices with ICEGATE to streamline the import of drugs, medical devices, and cosmetics into India. As per Rule 43-A of the Drugs Rules, 1945, imports are permitted only through notified ports. This initiative ensures regulatory compliance and enhances coordination between customs and CDSCO for safer and legal drug importation.
The Directorate General of Health Services, under the Government of India, has issued a directive aligning CDSCO-notified ports with ICEGATE (Indian Customs Electronic Gateway) to regulate the import of drugs, medical devices, and cosmetics.
According to Rule 43-A of the Drugs Rules, 1945, drugs can only be imported through designated entry points. This mapping ensures that Bills of Entry (BOE) filed on ICEGATE are automatically referred to the appropriate CDSCO port offices for regulatory scrutiny.
The initiative enhances transparency, compliance, and coordination between customs authorities and CDSCO, thereby preventing unauthorized imports and ensuring that only quality-assured products enter the Indian market.
The document includes a comprehensive list of notified ports—covering sea, air, rail, and road entries—and their corresponding CDSCO offices. Stakeholders are advised to route all consignments strictly through these mapped ports to avoid regulatory issues.
This move is a significant step toward strengthening India’s pharmaceutical import control framework and public health safety.