CBIC designates Kannur International Airport as new entry point for food imports

The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) has added Kannur International Airport in Kerala to the list of authorized entry points for food imports, expanding the total number of notified points to 166 across the country.

The decision was formalized through Instruction No. 31/2025-Customs, issued on November 3, 2025, which references the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) notification dated October 29, 2025. The update modifies the earlier Instruction No. 25/2025-Customs issued on August 6, 2025.

According to the notification, the Air Cargo Complex at Kannur International Airport has been officially included under the Food Safety and Standards (FSS) Act, 2006, and the FSS (Import) Regulations, 2017, as a designated Point of Entry for food imports. Authorized officers from FSSAI and Customs have been appointed to oversee inspection and clearance procedures at the new facility.

The move follows FSSAI’s comprehensive review of food import entry points across India to enhance efficiency, accessibility, and regulatory oversight. With Kannur’s inclusion, the total number of notified food import points rises from 165 to 166, strengthening India’s import management network and facilitating smoother trade operations, particularly in southern India.

CBIC has directed all field formations to sensitize customs officials under their jurisdiction about the updated notification and ensure necessary compliance measures are in place.

An updated list of all 166 authorized Points of Entry and designated officers has been circulated as Annexure-A with the instruction.

The addition of Kannur International Airport is expected to improve regional import logistics, reduce congestion at nearby airports such as Kochi and Chennai, and streamline the clearance of perishable and high-value food consignments arriving in northern Kerala and adjoining regions.