CBN and PHARMEXCIL sign MoU to regulate pharmaceutical exports

The Central Bureau of Narcotics (CBN) and the Pharmaceuticals Export Promotion Council of India (PHARMEXCIL) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to regulate controlled substances in pharmaceutical exports. The agreement aims to promote legitimate exports while preventing the diversion of essential chemical inputs, such as compounds, solvents, and catalysts, for illicit use.

As a major global supplier of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs), bulk drugs, and biologics, India seeks to safeguard its supply chain. The framework integrates voluntary compliance mechanisms into the export ecosystem and aligns with the Government of India’s National Roadmap of Ease of Doing Business. The CBN remains responsible for enforcing the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985, which includes supervising opium poppy cultivation and authorizing the import and export of narcotic drugs.