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Transformation of the FMCG Industry

This sector is currently in a state of transformation, with recent trends indicating a growing demand for health and wellness FMCG products, the adoption of sustainable practices and eco-friendly packaging and increased reliance on data-driven decision-making. Globally, there is a push for greater investment and sustainability initiatives to improve efficiency. In India, policy initiatives like GST, PLI schemes for the food processing industry and relaxed FDI rules have created significant opportunities. This growth brings fierce competition, driving heavy investment in marketing and brand loyalty. Expert legal guidance is crucial for navigating complex advertising and consumer protection laws, along with addressing regulatory issues related to product labelling and safety standards.

Our FMCG Sector Expertise

We have experience collaborating with stakeholders across the entire FMCG sector, from brand owners, licensees, manufacturers, distributors, wholesalers, to retailers and clients in packaging, marketing and advertising. We have catered to businesses in various areas, including

  • Supply Chain and Distribution

  • Consumer Disputes

  • Regulatory and BIS Compliance

  • Product Labelling and Packaging

  • Brand Protection

  • Consumer Law

  • Food Safety and Standards Law

  • Legal Metrology

  • Tax Laws

  • Intellectual Property Laws

  • Company Laws

  • Investment Laws

  • Labour Laws

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    How We Support the FMCG Industry

    Commercial Contracts

    We draft, review and negotiate contracts, including manufacturing, supply, co-packing, distribution, franchising agreements, as well as operational contracts like lease agreements, privacy policies and terms of service.

    Advertising and Marketing

    We provide advice on Advertising Standards Council of India (ASCI) guidelines, review marketing materials for legal adherence and help navigate laws related to misleading claims and consumer protection.

    Legal Metrology Compliance

    We ensure adherence to legal metrology laws by providing guidance on compliance with standards for weights and measures.

    Food Safety & Standards

    We assist in obtaining necessary food licenses and advising on labelling, packaging and quality control requirements under the relevant regulations.

    Personal Care & Cosmetics

    We assist with contract drafting, regulatory compliance with applicable laws like the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, obtaining licenses and approvals for product formulations and securing and managing IP.

    Dispute Resolution

    We assist in litigation and disputes by representing clients in legal proceedings, managing consumer complaints and resolving contractual conflicts to protect client interests.

    Tax Advisory

    Our services include full-spectrum advice on direct and indirect tax regulations. We ensure proper tax planning and help navigate GST obligations, including the classification of goods under HSN.

    Intellectual Property

    We advise on the strategic use of IP rights, trademark and patent registration, pre-filing searches, brand protection, enforcement of rights and drafting commercial agreements to enhance product portfolios.

    Investments & Finance

    We simplify the FDI regulatory framework, Foreign Exchange Management laws, structure investments to optimise tax implications and negotiate terms in joint ventures or partnerships.

    Competition Law

    We advise on anti-competitive practices and ensure compliance with the Competition Commission of India (CCI) regulations while mitigating risks in product pricing, market strategies and supply chain arrangements.

    Mergers & Acquisitions

    We provide 360-degree M&A support by conducting due diligence, negotiating deal terms and ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements to streamline the transaction process.

    Customs & Trade

    Given the global nature of the FMCG supply chain, we provide specialised guidance on customs regulations, goods classification, import-export duties and trade compliance, thereby mitigating risks related to cross-border transactions.

    Labour & Employment

    In a sector that relies on large workforces, we assist with labour law compliance, including employment contracts, workplace safety and dispute resolution under the labour codes.

    Market Entry

    We assist foreign FMCG companies looking to set up local subsidiaries and joint ventures in India by securing necessary approvals, providing corporate structuring advisory and developing investment strategies.

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