Updates on 21-day lockdown announcement.
MEASURES
- The lockdown continues and it is expected to expire on 14 April 2020.
- No official announcement was made on the extension for the lockdown.
IMPACT ON FOOD SUPPLY CHAIN
- On 31 March, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) issued an order 1 to allow the Food Business Operators (FBOs) others than Manufacturers, to temporarily operate food business during the lockdown.
- On 31 March, the FSSAI has also classified2 the import clearance of food items and functioning of notified food testing laboratories (including National Food Labs) under essential services during the lockdown. The operation will be performed as usual to facilitate the trade as well as ensure smoother operation of related services across the country.
- For industry, most of them are able to operate marginally apart from North Eastern region. The local food industry association, Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI), is working closely with the authority to assist on the issues faced.
FIA RECOMMENDATIONS/ACTIONS
- Food manufacturers are facing challenges in the operation as state and district authorities are having different interpretations of
essential goods that are allowed to be produced during the lockdown. - FIA is working closely with local industry association, FICCI, to address industry concerns to ensure food manufacturers and suppliers can continue to operate.