Centre Directs All Pan Masala Packs to Display Retail Price, Regardless of Size

New Delhi, Dec 4: The Centre announced on Wednesday that all pan masala packs, irrespective of size or weight, must display the Retail Sale Price (RSP) starting 1 February 2026.

The Department of Consumer Affairs issued the Legal Metrology (Packaged Commodities) Second (Amendment) Rules, 2025 through G.S.R. 881(E), mandating that every pan masala pack carry the RSP along with all other declarations required under the Legal Metrology (Packaged Commodities) Rules, 2011.

The notification, issued by Anupam Mishra, Joint Secretary of the Department of Consumer Affairs, clarifies that even small packs weighing 10 grams or less, previously exempt from certain declarations, must now display the retail price. The amendment withdraws the earlier provision under Rule 26(a) and introduces a new proviso specifically for pan masala.

Consumer Protection and GST Compliance
The new rules are designed to strengthen consumer protection by ensuring transparent pricing across all pack sizes, preventing misleading or deceptive price information, and helping buyers make informed decisions.

Additionally, standardizing RSP display will support GST compliance, allowing for accurate tax assessment and revenue collection for all pan masala packs, including smaller units. The amendment also facilitates the seamless implementation of GST Council decisions and ensures effective monitoring of revenue.

Manufacturers, packers, and importers of pan masala are required to comply fully with the new rules by the deadline of 1 February 2026.