Over 500 Tonnes of Seized Garlic Triggers Stronger Enforcement Measures

Despite a formal ban on Chinese garlic imports, large volumes continue to make their way into India through illegal channels. According to the latest data, 507 tonnes of Chinese garlic were seized during the 2024–25 financial year. This follows the seizure of 546 tonnes in 2023–24. As reported by the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC).

The government first banned Chinese garlic imports on September 6, 2005, due to repeated detections of harmful fungi like Embellisia alli and Urocytsis cepulae. Chinese consignment found with fungi. It is raising concerns over public health and domestic crop safety.

Central Agencies Intensify Garlic Monitoring

In a written statement in the Lok Sabha, Union Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Ramnath Thakur confirmed the ongoing seizures and announced stricter surveillance. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has received complaints, including one related to Chinese garlic sold in Chennai markets. In response, the Tamil Nadu Food Safety Department has been directed to monitor and act.

Regulations and Compliance

Import Control Measures in Place

Pest Risk Analysis (PRA) are mandatory before entering into the market. PRA is regulated under the Plant Quarantine (Regulation of Import into India) Order 2003. The Directorate of Plant Protection Quarantine and Storage (DPPQ&S), Faridabad, oversees this process and determines pest mitigation measures required by exporting countries.

The Centre has reiterated that garlic imports from China remain banned and violators will face strict penalties under the Plant Quarantine Order 2003 and Customs Act 1962.

Illegal Chinese garlic imports continue to pose a threat. But with stronger enforcement and inter-agency coordination, the government is aiming to curb the menace effectively.