The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has notified Navi Mumbai Airport as an authorised port for the import of drugs under the Drugs Rules, 1945, expanding India’s regulated pharmaceutical logistics network. The amendment to Rule 43A was issued after consultation with the Drugs Technical Advisory Board, the country’s top technical body on drug regulation.
Boost for pharma supply chain
The move is aimed at improving the flow of pharmaceutical shipments into the country and strengthening supply chain efficiency. It is also expected to offer importers an additional regulated gateway, which can help reduce congestion at existing entry points and improve cargo handling.
More flexibility for importers
With Navi Mumbai Airport now included in the list of approved entry points, pharmaceutical companies gain more flexibility in choosing import routes for drugs and related consignments. Industry observers expect the change to support smoother customs clearance, faster movement of goods and better logistics planning for medicine imports.
Wider trade and logistics impact
The addition of the airport increases the number of notified ports of entry across air, sea, rail and road to 42. The development is also seen as part of broader efforts to improve ease of doing business and strengthen India’s pharmaceutical trade infrastructure.
Support for healthcare logistics
By adding a new air gateway for drug imports, the government has taken a step that could improve resilience in the healthcare supply chain. The decision may be particularly useful for companies handling urgent or high-value pharmaceutical shipments that depend on efficient air cargo connectivity.
