CBIC Eases Export Testing Requirements: NABL-Accredited Laboratory Reports to Be Accepted Without Mandatory CRCL Referral

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Dated: 16.06.2026

CBIC Eases Export Testing Requirements: NABL-Accredited Laboratory Reports to Be Accepted Without Mandatory CRCL Referral

Exporters in India have long faced challenges due to delays and duplicate testing of export consignment samples. The Central Board of Indirect Taxes & Customs (CBIC) has addressed these concerns through Circular No. 28/2026, introducing new guidelines to streamline the testing process and reduce unnecessary procedural hurdles.

Background: The Need for Change

Exporters frequently encounter delays because, even when they use accredited laboratories for testing, samples must first pass through Revenue Laboratories. This results in duplicate testing, increased costs, and longer turnaround times, impacting the competitiveness of Indian exports.

Previous Guidelines and Identified Issues

Existing Circulars:
- Circular 43/2017-Customs and Circular 11/2018-Customs identified items that cannot be tested in CRCL Laboratories and listed alternative government labs.
- Circular 46/2020-Customs provided guidelines for Revenue Laboratories to test samples from outside sources.
Exporter Practices:
- Many exporters voluntarily obtain quality certifications and testing from accredited labs to meet international standards, technical regulations, and sanitary/phytosanitary requirements.
- These tests are often conducted by labs accredited by the National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories (NABL), Export Promotion Councils (EPCs), or other recognized agencies.

Key Clarifications in Circular No. 28/2026

The new circular clarifies the following points to address the issue of delays and duplicate testing:

Recognition of Accredited Lab Reports:
- Exporters who have already obtained test reports or quality certifications from NABL-accredited or other recognized labs should not be required to undergo duplicate testing in Revenue Laboratories.
- Customs authorities are instructed to accept these reports for compliance verification, provided they meet the necessary standards and requirements.
Reduction of Delays:
- By accepting accredited lab reports, the process eliminates unnecessary waiting periods and expedites the clearance of export consignments.
Avoidance of Duplicate Testing:
- The circular aims to prevent redundant testing, reducing costs and administrative burdens for exporters.

Implementation: What Exporters Should Do

Obtain Testing from Recognized Labs:
- Ensure that all export consignment samples are tested by NABL-accredited, EPC-recognized, or other officially recognized laboratories.
Submit Valid Reports to Customs:
- Present the original test reports or quality certifications at the time of export clearance.
Stay Updated on Approved Labs:
- Refer to the latest lists of recognized laboratories as notified by the CBIC and relevant ministries.

Benefits for Exporters and Trade Facilitation

Faster Export Clearance: Reduced procedural delays mean quicker movement of goods.
Lower Costs: Avoiding duplicate testing saves money for exporters.
Enhanced Global Competitiveness: Streamlined processes help Indian exporters meet international timelines and standards more efficiently.

Conclusion

Circular No. 28/2026 marks a significant step towards simplifying export procedures in India. By recognizing accredited laboratory reports and eliminating unnecessary duplicate testing, the CBIC is fostering a more efficient, cost-effective, and exporter-friendly environment.

In case you face any issues related to Indirect Tax-Customs, GST, Foreign Trade Policy (FTP), Arbitration matters and Central Licensing and related advisory matters in India then please feel free to get in touch with SJ EXIM Services.

We offer Legal advice and litigation support in matters related to Indirect Tax-Customs, FTP, other Indirect Tax matters & Arbitration law, all sorts of Central licensing and related matters. Come and explore the new way of doing business with us!

Source: CBIC, Ministry of Finance, Govt. of India

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