WPC-ETA Certification and EPR Authorization for Importers - A Compliance Checklist

1. WPC-ETA Certification and EPR Authorization for Importers: A Compliance Checklist To have a product sold legally in many of the expanding Indian markets of electronic and wireless goods, one thing is necessary: compliance with certain regulations. Importers, for instance, have to navigate the intricate world of necessary certifications like WPC-ETA Certification and EPR Authorization in India. This article will provide a complete compliance checklist for importers involved in the import of wireless and electronic goods in terms of WPC Approval in India and EPR Authorization. Getting the Basics Right What Is WPC-ETA Certification? WPC-ETA Certification is the type of approval granted as Equipment Type Approval (ETA) to any device by the Wireless Planning and Coordination (WPC) Wing of the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), India. This certification is mandatory for all wireless devices operating in those de-licensed frequency bands such as Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, RFID, and Zigbee. What is EPR Authorization? EPR Authorization in India is given by the CPCB under the E-Waste Management Rules to make responsible the producers, importers, and brand owners for the actual end-of-life collection and disposal of electronic products in which they introduce them into the market. These two certifications ensure that the imported electronic devices comply with the regulations and environment set by the Indian government. Why Importers Should Obtain Both WPC and EPR Compliance For importing wireless-enabled electronic devices, WPC Approval in India is mandatory to prove radio frequency compliance and getting EPR Authorization in India fulfills e-waste management obligations. Failure to comply may result in severe penalties, including confiscation of goods and shutdown of business.

2. Compliance Checklist for Importers 1. Ascertain Product Type and Frequency Usage • Find out whether your approved product uses de-licensed frequency bands (2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, etc.). • If it does, then WPC-ETA Certification is mandatory. • For all electronics, including wireless devices, EPR Authorization may be required under e- waste rules. 2. Get Radio Frequency Test Reports • Obtain test reports on an accredited foreign or Indian lab for your wireless product. • Such reports must demonstrate the device operates within permissible frequency limits and power levels as per Indian standards. 3. Apply for WPC-ETA Certification • Online applications are submitted to the WPC Wing using Saral Sanchar. • Technical test reports and the specifications of the device should be attached. • WPC Approval in India is generally granted within 15-30 working-days after complete documentation is submitted. 4. Category EEE for EPR Authorization • Determine the category of your product under the E-Waste (Management) Rules. • Popular categories are laptops, mobile phones, routers, and consumer electronics. 5. Create an EPR Plan • Draft a comprehensive EPR plan about how the company intends to collect and dispose of end-of-life products. • Include the engaged authorized recyclers and the collection centers. 6. Apply for EPR Authorization • File the EPR plan online along with company KYC, IEC, and GST details with the CPCB. • EPR Authorization in India approval usually takes approximately 30–45 working days. 7. Labeling and Documentation • Ensure WPC-ETA Certification quoting and related e-waste disposal instruction is available on your product label. • Keep licenses from imports, BIS certifications (where required), and invoices for ad hoc inspections. 8. Annual Reporting and Renewals • File regular returns with CPCB to prove that e-waste collection and recycling take place.

3. • Track the validity of the ETA and ensure no change occurs in product specifications post- approval. Key Documents Required For WPC Approval in India: • RF Test Report • Technical specifications of the product, user manual • Authorization letter from the OEM (if applicable) For EPR Authorization in India: • Company PAN, GST, and IEC • EPR plan with recycler agreements • List of the product categories and quantities Conclusion Importers in the Indian market cannot afford to ignore compliance with WPC-ETA Certification and EPR Authorization in India. Doing everything as set forth in the above checklist will lead to smooth customs clearance as well as marketing and distribution of wireless and electronic products. In obtaining WPC Approval in India and meeting EPR obligations, importers not only shield their investment but also contribute to responsible practices toward the environment in the booming electronics sector within India. Contact Us To hire professional assistance on WPC Approval, WPC-ETA Certification, or EPR Authorization in India, contact our compliance experts at: Fusion Compliance Services Website: https://fusioncomplianceservices.com Email: info@fusioncomplianceservices.com Phone: +91-97170-47807 Location: New Delhi, India