India proposes wider import gateway network for medicines and medical devices

The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has proposed expanding India’s authorised import gateways for drugs, medical devices and cosmetics, adding inland clearance locations and Noida International Airport to improve healthcare logistics.

Announced on 3 November, the proposed amendment to Rule 43A of the Drugs Rules, 1945, aims to enable clearance closer to manufacturing facilities, warehouses and distribution centres. The ministry expects shorter inland transport distances, lower logistics costs and fewer delays. The changes remain at the proposal stage.

The proposed additions cover Inland Container Depots (ICDs), a Special Economic Zone (SEZ) and an airport across five states.

Noida International Airport is proposed for drug imports by air. The ministry also identified Dhannad and Tihi ICDs in Indore, Madhya Pradesh, as part of the existing authorised network.

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