Packaged Commodities Rules Relaxed Amid GST Revision: Old Wrappers Allowed Till March 2026

In view of the imminent GST rate changes effective from 22 September 2025, the government has relaxed rules under the Legal Metrology (Packaged Commodities) Regulations for pre-packaged goods. Specifically, manufacturers, importers, or packers are permitted to continue using old wrappers (with older price stickers or labels reflecting pre-GST 2.0 rates) for unsold stock until March 2026. This measure aims to ease the compliance transition for FMCG and other packaged goods industries, avoid wastage of pre-printed packaging material, and reduce immediate logistical challenges. It provides breathing space for businesses to adjust packaging, pricing, and inventory systems.