Govt Relieves Manufacturers: No Mandatory Price Stickers On Unsold Goods Made Before Sept 22

The Ministry of Consumer Affairs has announced a significant relief for manufacturers, packers, and importers. In its latest clarification, the government stated that there will be no requirement to affix revised price stickers on unsold pre packaged goods manufactured before September 22, 2025, even after the revision in Goods and Services Tax (GST) rates.

This decision comes after industry bodies and trade associations raised concerns about the compliance challenges posed by earlier guidelines. The fresh advisory supersedes the September 9 notification and makes compliance simpler for businesses, while still ensuring consumer awareness.

Key Highlights of the New Rules

1. No Mandatory Price Stickers

Companies are not obligated to stick revised MRPs on unsold goods made before September 22, 2025. However, they may voluntarily affix updated stickers as long as the original MRP remains visible.

2. Advertising Rules Relaxed

Previously, Rule 18(3) of the Legal Metrology (Packaged Commodities) Rules, 2011 required companies to publish revised prices in at least two newspapers. The government has now removed this requirement. Instead, businesses only need to:

• Notify wholesalers and retailers directly.
• Send copies of the price change notifications to the Director of Legal Metrology (Centre) and the Controllers of Legal Metrology in states and UTs.

3. Consumer Awareness Still Mandatory

Even though newspaper ads are no longer required, companies must actively inform consumers about revised GST linked prices. This should be done through electronic, print, and social media channels to ensure transparency.

4. Use of Old Packaging Allowed

Manufacturers can continue using packaging material printed with old MRPs until March 31, 2026, or until stocks are exhausted, whichever is earlier. Any corrections to the retail price must be made through stamping, stickers, or online printing.

Read More: When Will GST Rate Cut Be Effective?

Conclusion

The government’s clarification provides much needed flexibility for companies dealing with unsold inventory. By removing the mandatory requirement of re-stickering and newspaper ads, compliance costs will reduce significantly. At the same time, businesses are still required to keep wholesalers, retailers, and consumers informed, ensuring transparency in the pricing system.

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