Govt move comes amid slow compliance, industry concerns
MAPUSA
Amid slow compliance and growing resistance from sections of industry, the Goa government has extended the registration deadline for Producers, Importers and Brand Owners (PIBOs) under the proposed Deposit Refund Scheme (DRS) to March 15.
The earlier deadline for mandatory registration was February 28. Officials, however, confirmed that the extension was granted after several manufacturers and traders failed to complete the process within the stipulated timeframe.
The DRS, slated to be rolled out from April 1, will require PIBOs dealing in non-biodegradable beverage containers — including glass bottles, cans and certain plastic packaging — to register with the designated authority and comply with collection and refund mechanisms under the new framework.
While the government has maintained that the extension is intended to facilitate smoother onboarding and ensure wider participation, industry sources say the move reflects deeper operational and structural concerns surrounding the scheme. “The response has been slower than expected because many stakeholders are still seeking clarity on compliance procedures, financial liabilities and the tax treatment of the refundable deposit component,” said a senior official associated with the implementation process. “The extension is intended to ensure that no eligible entity is left out.”
However, traders argue that the delay signals that the rollout is facing hurdles. “If everything were in place, the registration would have been completed on time. There is confusion at multiple levels,” said a manufacturer who did not wish to be named. “Many smaller players are unsure about the documentation requirements and the financial implications of the deposit system.”
The government has been facing criticism from sections of the liquor and beverage industry, which have questioned the legal and logistical framework of the DRS. Concerns have also been raised about whether the additional refundable deposit collected from consumers would complicate pricing structures and compliance filings.
Despite the pushback, officials have reiterated that the April 1 implementation date remains unchanged. They said awareness drives and stakeholder meetings are being intensified to address grievances and streamline the registration process.
