Patanjali files court case against 13 businesses “illegally” exporting its goods

By

Isabelle Crossley

Published
Mar 6, 2019

The Ayurvedic personal care and lifestyle brand Patanjali has filed cases against 13 businesses in New Delhi and accuses them of illegally exporting its products for sale overseas.

A source close to the case told ET Bureau that Patanjali has moved the Delhi High Court against 13 exporters in the area for allegedly selling its products, intended only for domestic retail, in other countries including Canada, Australia, and the Middle East. The brand argued that this amounts to illegal exportation of goods.

The source told ET Bureau about what Patanjali argues the 13 businesses did: “Their modus operandi is they would repack products as if they have FDA approvals from that country… It’s not only illegal, but also unethical.”

The products have rupee prices stickers but they were covered to make the products look like they were intended for international sale, according to Patanjali. 

“Patanjali wants to ensure that the Customs do not allow exports of such items,” said another source.

Towards this aim, Patanjali has involved the Customs Department. The case, which was heard in Delhi High Court on Wednesday, Could set a precedent for similar cases concerning exports.