How to Import Pure Shilajit from India: Documents, Licences, Customs & Requirements
India is an important sourcing destination for Shilajit, attracting international businesses looking to purchase raw Shilajit, purified Shilajit resin, powder and finished formulations for their markets.
However, importing Shilajit from India involves more than finding a manufacturer and arranging international shipping. Buyers must understand whether the product is permitted in their destination country, which regulatory requirements apply, what documents they need and how customs clearance works.
The requirements can vary depending on the destination country and whether Shilajit is imported as a raw material, a food supplement ingredient or a finished Ayurvedic formulation.
If you are a distributor, wholesaler, supplement brand, private-label business or bulk buyer planning to import Shilajit from India, this guide explains the key steps, documentation, regulatory considerations and quality checks you should complete before placing an order.
Understanding these requirements in advance can help prevent shipment delays, customs complications, unexpected costs and potential product rejection.
1. Understand Shilajit Product Classification Before Importing
Before importing Shilajit from India, the first step is to understand how your product will be classified in the destination country. Shilajit is available in different forms, and each form may be subject to different regulatory requirements.
Common Shilajit products imported by international businesses include:
Raw Shilajit: Unprocessed or minimally processed material sourced for further purification or manufacturing.
Purified Shilajit Resin: Processed Shilajit in resin form, commonly purchased by supplement brands, distributors and wholesalers.
Shilajit Powder: A dried or processed form used as an ingredient in different supplement formulations.
Shilajit Extract: An extracted and processed ingredient used in capsules, tablets and other formulations.
Finished Shilajit Supplements: Ready-to-sell products such as capsules, tablets and other consumer formulations.
If you are deciding which form to source, understanding the differences between Shilajit resin, powder and capsules can help you select the right product for your business requirements.
The regulatory classification depends on the product's composition, intended use, presentation and marketing claims.
For example, Shilajit imported as a food supplement ingredient may be subject to food safety regulations, whereas a product marketed for medicinal purposes may fall under a different regulatory framework.
Before placing an order, international buyers should verify:
Whether Shilajit is permitted in their destination country.
Whether the ingredient is accepted for the intended use.
Whether the product requires registration or regulatory approval.
Whether there are restrictions on its composition or permitted dosage.
Whether additional testing or documentation is required.
Whether the proposed product claims are legally permitted.
Importers should not assume that a product legally manufactured in India is automatically approved for sale in every international market.
2. What Licences and Approvals Are Required to Import Shilajit?
Import licence and regulatory requirements depend on the country where Shilajit will be imported.
Unlike manufacturers and exporters in India, international buyers must comply with the import regulations applicable in their own countries.The following are some important areas importers should investigate.
A. Importer Registration and Import Licence
Some countries require businesses to register as food importers, obtain a customs importer identification number or hold specific licences before importing food and dietary supplement products.
Depending on the jurisdiction, importers may need:
Business registration.
Customs importer identification.
Food business registration.
Import permits, where applicable.
Registration with the relevant regulatory authority.
The requirements should be verified before the shipment is dispatched from India.
B. Food or Dietary Supplement Registration
If Shilajit is imported as a food supplement or ingredient, the importer may need to comply with the destination country's food safety regulations.
Some markets require product notification, registration or additional ingredient assessments.
The importer should check whether Shilajit is accepted as an ingredient under the applicable food or supplement framework.
C. Product-Specific Regulatory Approval
Not all Shilajit products are regulated in the same way.
The regulatory treatment may depend on:
Product composition.
Intended use.
Form of the product.
Manufacturing process.
Dosage and presentation.
Health or medicinal claims.
For example, a finished supplement marketed with therapeutic claims may face different requirements from Shilajit resin sold as a food supplement ingredient.
D. Importer of Record Responsibilities
The Importer of Record (IOR) is the party responsible for ensuring that imported goods meet the applicable customs and import requirements.
Depending on the country and transaction structure, the importer or its authorised customs representative may be responsible for:
Submitting customs declarations.
Providing supporting documents.
Declaring the correct product classification.
Paying applicable duties and taxes.
Responding to customs or regulatory queries.
Ensuring compliance with applicable import regulations.
International buyers should clarify who will act as the Importer of Record before finalising shipping arrangements.
E. Country-Specific Regulatory Considerations
United States: Depending on product classification, food imports may involve FDA requirements, including applicable facility registration, prior notice and Foreign Supplier Verification Program (FSVP) obligations. Importers should verify whether exemptions or modified requirements apply.
United Kingdom: Importers should check applicable food supplement, food safety and labelling requirements. Products marketed for medicinal purposes may fall under separate MHRA requirements.
European Union: Importers should consider applicable food safety legislation, ingredient eligibility, food supplement requirements and country-specific rules. Certain ingredients may require additional assessment under novel food regulations.
Canada: Products may be classified as foods, natural health products or other regulated categories. The applicable import requirements depend on that classification.
Australia: Importers should determine whether the product falls under food or therapeutic goods regulation and check applicable requirements before shipment.
These are regulatory starting points, not confirmation that every Shilajit product is permitted in these markets.
3. Documents Required to Import Shilajit from India
Documentation is one of the most important parts of importing Shilajit successfully.
International buyers need to obtain the correct documents from their Indian manufacturer and prepare the documents required by their own customs and regulatory authorities. The following documents are commonly relevant to international Shilajit shipments.
Document | Who generally provides it? | Purpose |
Commercial Invoice | Indian supplier | Declares product details and transaction value |
Packing List | Indian supplier | Specifies package count, weight and dimensions |
Certificate of Analysis (COA) | Manufacturer or laboratory | Provides batch-specific quality results |
Product Specification Sheet | Manufacturer | Describes product composition and specifications |
Certificate of Origin | Authorised issuing body | Establishes country of origin |
Manufacturing Licence | Manufacturer | Supports verification of manufacturing authorisation |
GMP Certificate, where applicable | Manufacturer or certifying body | Provides evidence of relevant manufacturing standards |
Bill of Lading / Airway Bill | Shipping carrier | Confirms transportation details |
Import Declaration | Importer or customs broker | Supports customs clearance |
Import Permit, where applicable | Relevant authority | Provides required import authorisation |
Documents Provided by the Indian Manufacturer
Before confirming an order, international buyers should request the following from their supplier:
Commercial invoice.
Packing list.
Batch-specific Certificate of Analysis.
Product specification sheet.
Relevant manufacturing licences.
Applicable quality certifications.
Certificate of Origin, where required.
Product photographs and packaging details.
These documents help the importer verify the supplier, understand the product and prepare for customs clearance.
Documents Arranged by the Importer
Depending on the destination country, the buyer may also need:
Import licence or permit.
Customs registration or importer identification.
Product registration or notification.
Customs declaration.
Applicable food safety documentation.
Customs duty and tax payment records.
Additional certificates requested by the relevant authority.
Not every shipment requires every document. Requirements should be confirmed based on product classification and destination-country regulations.
Why Is a Batch-Specific COA Important When Importing Shilajit?
A Certificate of Analysis is an important quality document when purchasing Shilajit in bulk.
It provides laboratory results for a particular product batch and helps the importer evaluate whether the material meets the agreed specifications.
Importers should also understand the importance of Shilajit batch standardization, especially when sourcing products for regular commercial supply.
Before approving a shipment, importers should check:
Whether the COA matches the actual shipment batch.
Whether the laboratory is credible and appropriately qualified.
Heavy metal test results, including lead, arsenic, mercury and cadmium.
Microbiological test results.
Product identity and authenticity.
Fulvic acid content, if included in the agreed specification.
Whether the test methods and limits meet the destination country's requirements.
A COA should not be treated as a universal import permit or a guarantee of regulatory approval. It is one part of the product quality and compliance documentation.
4. Step-by-Step Process to Import Shilajit from India
Importing Shilajit involves coordination between the international buyer, Indian manufacturer, shipping company and customs authorities. Following a structured process can help avoid unnecessary delays and expenses.
Step 1: Check Whether Shilajit Can Be Imported into Your Country
Before approaching suppliers or placing a bulk order, verify the import regulations in your destination country.
Check:
Product admissibility.
Ingredient restrictions.
Food or supplement classification.
Import permits and registration requirements.
Testing requirements.
Packaging and labelling regulations.
Any restrictions on medicinal claims.
This step is especially important because regulatory requirements can differ significantly between countries.
Step 2: Find a Reliable Shilajit Manufacturer in India
Once you understand the regulatory requirements, identify a suitable Indian Shilajit manufacturer.
Look for a supplier who can provide:
Relevant manufacturing licences.
Product specifications.
Batch-specific COAs.
Manufacturing and traceability information.
Appropriate quality certifications.
Export-ready packaging.
Documentation support.
For international buyers, the ability to provide consistent product quality and reliable documentation is just as important as the product price.
Step 3: Finalise Product Specifications and Place a Purchase Order
Before placing an order, clearly define the specifications of the Shilajit you intend to import.
Important considerations include:
Product form: resin, powder, extract or finished formulation.
Purity and composition requirements.
Heavy metal limits.
Microbiological specifications.
Packaging size.
Minimum Order Quantity (MOQ).
Shelf life.
Batch acceptance criteria.
Private-label requirements, if applicable.
Make sure the agreed specifications are compatible with the applicable regulations in your destination country. A written purchase order should clearly mention the product specifications, quantity, pricing, payment terms, delivery schedule and agreed shipping terms.
Step 4: Confirm HS Code, Import Duties and Taxes
Every international shipment must be declared under an appropriate customs classification.
The importer should verify the correct Harmonized System (HS) classification for the specific Shilajit product in the destination country. Different product forms and intended uses may require different classifications.
Before shipment, confirm:
Applicable HS code.
Import duty.
Applicable VAT, GST or other taxes.
Customs valuation requirements.
Any additional inspection or clearance charges.
Preferential tariff treatment, if applicable.
Do not assume that one HS code or duty rate applies to all Shilajit products. A customs broker or qualified trade professional can help verify the correct classification.
Step 5: Arrange Shipping and Import Documentation
After confirming the purchase, coordinate with the Indian manufacturer to arrange the shipment.
The importer should verify:
Commercial invoice.
Packing list.
Product specifications.
Batch-specific COA.
Certificate of Origin, where applicable.
Bill of Lading or Airway Bill.
Required permits and declarations.
The buyer and supplier should also agree on shipping terms such as EXW, FOB or CIF.
These terms determine how transportation, insurance, export clearance and other responsibilities are allocated between the parties.
Step 6: Customs Clearance and Final Delivery
When the shipment reaches the destination country, the importer or appointed customs broker must complete the applicable clearance procedures.
The process may include:
Submission of the import declaration.
Providing supporting commercial and regulatory documents.
Payment of applicable customs duties and taxes.
Responding to customs or regulatory queries.
Arranging inspection or laboratory testing, if required.
Obtaining shipment release.
Arranging final delivery to the warehouse.
Incomplete documentation, incorrect product classification or regulatory non-compliance can lead to delays, detention, additional costs or shipment rejection.
5. How to Verify Shilajit Quality Before Importing from India
Product quality is a major consideration when sourcing Shilajit internationally. Importers should work with manufacturers who follow appropriate sourcing, purification, processing, testing and packaging practices.
A. Raw Material Sourcing and Traceability
Shilajit is a naturally occurring mineral-rich substance collected from mountainous regions. Its composition and quality can vary depending on its source and processing.
International buyers should ask manufacturers about:
Raw material sourcing practices.
Supplier verification.
Traceability records.
Raw material inspection.
Quality acceptance procedures.
Traceability is important because it helps establish where the raw material originated and how it was handled before processing.
B. Purification and Processing
Raw Shilajit may contain unwanted impurities and environmental contaminants. A suitable purification and processing system is therefore important for producing Shilajit intended for commercial use.
Buyers should understand:
How raw material is cleaned.
What purification methods are used.
How unwanted impurities are removed.
Whether processing is documented.
How finished product batches are checked.
Manufacturers should be able to explain their processing procedures and provide relevant quality documentation.
C. Laboratory Testing and Quality Verification
Laboratory testing helps evaluate the identity, purity and safety of Shilajit.
Depending on the product and market requirements, testing may cover:
Heavy metals.
Microbiological contamination.
Product identity.
Moisture content.
Fulvic acid content, where relevant.
Other agreed quality parameters.
One particularly important consideration is heavy metal contamination. Buyers should understand the importance of heavy metal testing in Shilajit and request appropriate batch-specific test reports.
Importers should also understand how to evaluate fulvic acid content and verify Shilajit suppliers before committing to bulk purchases. Third-party testing can also be arranged where required.
D. Packaging, Labelling and Storage
Packaging is important for maintaining product quality during international transportation and storage.
Before approving production, buyers should confirm:
Suitable food-grade packaging, where applicable.
Appropriate sealing.
Protection against moisture and contamination.
Batch identification.
Manufacturing and expiry details.
Storage instructions.
Destination-country labelling requirements.
For finished consumer products, labels may need to include ingredients, net quantity, responsible business details, warnings, usage instructions and other declarations required by local law.
Shelf life is another important consideration for international buyers, particularly businesses purchasing inventory for distribution or private-label products. Understanding Shilajit shelf life and storage requirements for supplement brands can help importers plan inventory, packaging and product distribution. Importers should approve the final label before manufacturing or dispatch.
6. How to Choose a Reliable Shilajit Supplier in India for Import
Selecting the right manufacturer is one of the most important decisions when importing Shilajit.
A reliable supplier should be able to provide consistent quality, transparent documentation and support with international sourcing requirements.
Before finalising a supplier, ask the following questions:
1. Can You Provide the Relevant Manufacturing Licences?
Verify the manufacturer's applicable Indian manufacturing licences and registrations.
For example, food products and Ayurvedic medicines may fall under different Indian regulatory frameworks.
2. Can You Provide Batch-Specific COAs?
Ask for laboratory reports corresponding to the actual product batch.
Verify the testing parameters, results and laboratory details.
3. Can You Customise Product Specifications?
Different international markets may have different product specifications and quality requirements.
Choose a manufacturer who can discuss product composition, packaging and agreed quality parameters.
4. Can You Provide Export-Ready Packaging?
Packaging should protect the product during transportation and meet the agreed destination-market requirements. If you are developing your own brand, ask about private-label packaging and customisation.
5. Can You Support Third-Party Testing?
A manufacturer should be willing to facilitate additional testing or inspections where required.
6. What Are Your MOQ and Production Lead Times?
Understand the shilajit minimum order quantity, production schedule, sample availability and delivery timelines before placing a commercial order.
7. Can You Support International Shipping Arrangements?
Discuss shipping options, export documentation and Incoterms such as FOB and CIF.
8. Can You Provide Product Traceability?
A reliable supplier should be able to explain its sourcing, processing, batch identification and quality verification practices.
Businesses planning to launch their own supplement brands can also explore Shilajit resin manufacturing solutions for supplement brands.
For companies looking for an Indian manufacturing partner, Aveda Ayur offers Shilajit resin manufacturing and sourcing solutions for businesses interested in bulk supply and private-label requirements.
7. Common Mistakes to Avoid When Importing Shilajit from India
First-time importers can face several challenges when sourcing Shilajit internationally. Avoiding the following mistakes can make the importing process more manageable.
Common mistake | What importers should do instead |
Ordering before checking import regulations | Verify product eligibility first |
Assuming Indian licences guarantee overseas approval | Check destination-country requirements |
Using an incorrect HS code | Confirm classification with a customs professional |
Accepting generic COAs | Request batch-specific laboratory reports |
Ignoring heavy metal testing | Verify applicable safety limits |
Overlooking product labelling | Approve destination-compliant labels before production |
Ignoring import duties and taxes | Calculate landed cost before ordering |
Choosing suppliers only by price | Evaluate quality, documentation and traceability |
Not defining shipping responsibilities | Agree on Incoterms before placing an order |
Not accounting for customs delays | Allow sufficient time for clearance |
The most important precaution is to verify the regulatory requirements before making a commercial purchase. This can help prevent situations where a product is manufactured and shipped successfully from India but cannot be cleared or legally marketed in the destination country.
8. How Much Does It Cost to Import Shilajit from India?
The total cost of importing Shilajit depends on several factors, including product specifications, order quantity, shipping method and destination-country import regulations. Importers should calculate the complete landed cost instead of comparing only the manufacturer's quoted price.
Common cost components include:
Cost component | Description |
Product cost | Price charged by the Indian manufacturer |
Packaging | Bulk or private-label packaging |
Laboratory testing | Additional testing, if required |
Inland transportation | Movement of goods within India |
Export documentation | Applicable documentation and handling costs |
International freight | Air or sea transportation |
Insurance | Shipment insurance, where arranged |
Customs duty | Import duty applicable in the destination country |
Taxes | Applicable VAT, GST or other taxes |
Customs clearance | Broker and handling charges |
Final delivery | Transportation to the buyer's warehouse |
The final landed cost will depend on the shipment value, product classification, country of origin, destination country and agreed shipping terms. Before placing an order, request a detailed quotation from the supplier and obtain an estimate of destination-country customs and clearance expenses.
9. FOB vs CIF vs EXW: Shipping Terms Importers Should Understand
International buyers should understand shipping terms before confirming a purchase with an Indian manufacturer. Three commonly encountered Incoterms are EXW, FOB and CIF.
EXW (Ex Works)
Under EXW, the seller generally makes the goods available at its premises or another agreed location.
The buyer takes on significant responsibility for collection and transportation, including export-related arrangements as allocated by the agreed term. Importers should confirm whether they have the necessary arrangements to manage these responsibilities.
FOB (Free on Board)
Under FOB, the seller delivers the goods on board the vessel at the agreed port of shipment. The buyer generally arranges the main international freight and insurance. FOB is intended for sea and inland waterway transport.
CIF (Cost, Insurance and Freight)
Under CIF, the seller arranges and pays for the cost, insurance and freight to the agreed destination port.
However, the risk generally transfers to the buyer when the goods are loaded on board the vessel at the port of shipment.
CIF is also intended for sea and inland waterway transport.
Before choosing a shipping term, discuss:
Export clearance responsibilities.
International freight.
Insurance coverage.
Import clearance.
Customs duties and taxes.
Final delivery arrangements.
Clearly defining these responsibilities in the purchase agreement helps avoid unexpected expenses and misunderstandings.
10. Country-Specific Import Requirements for Shilajit
Importing Shilajit from India involves different regulatory considerations depending on the destination market. The following overview highlights some important areas international buyers should investigate.
Importing Shilajit into the USA
Businesses importing Shilajit into the United States should first determine whether the product is classified as a conventional food, dietary supplement, ingredient or another regulated product.
Depending on the classification and circumstances, relevant requirements may include:
FDA food facility registration, where applicable.
FDA Prior Notice for imported food.
Applicable Foreign Supplier Verification Program (FSVP) obligations.
Food safety requirements.
Dietary supplement manufacturing and labelling regulations, where applicable.
Customs entry and product declaration requirements.
Importers should review official FDA and US Customs and Border Protection requirements before shipment.
Official resources:
FDA food import guidance
FDA FSVP
US Customs
Importing Shilajit into the UK
Businesses importing Shilajit into the United Kingdom should determine whether the product is regulated as a food supplement or medicinal product.
Relevant considerations include:
Food safety requirements.
Food supplement regulations.
Product composition and ingredient eligibility.
Labelling requirements.
Importer responsibilities.
Applicable MHRA requirements if the product is classified as a medicine.
Official resources:
Importing Shilajit into the European Union
Importers supplying Shilajit to European Union markets should consider:
EU food safety legislation.
Ingredient eligibility.
Applicable novel food requirements.
Food supplement regulations.
Heavy metal and contaminant limits.
Consumer labelling requirements.
National requirements in the relevant member state.
A product's acceptance in one EU market should not automatically be interpreted as confirmation that all formulations or intended uses are permitted throughout the EU.
Official resources:
European Commission Food Safety
EU Access2Markets
Importing Shilajit into Canada
Canadian importers should first determine whether the product falls under the food or Natural Health Product framework.
Depending on its classification, requirements may include:
Applicable food import requirements.
Natural Health Product licensing.
Importer licensing, where required.
Product-specific approvals.
Labelling and safety requirements.
Official resources:
Health Canada
Canadian Food Inspection Agency
Importing Shilajit into Australia
Importers should determine whether the product is regulated as food or a therapeutic good.
Relevant requirements may include:
Australian food safety regulations.
Imported food inspection requirements.
Biosecurity requirements, where applicable.
Therapeutic goods regulations, if the product is classified as a therapeutic good.
Applicable labelling and ingredient requirements.
Official resources:
Australian Department of Agriculture
Food Standards Australia New Zealand
Therapeutic Goods Administration
Important: This country overview is intended as a starting point for regulatory research, not a confirmation that Shilajit is approved for import or sale in any particular market. Importers should obtain product-specific regulatory advice and verify current requirements with the relevant authorities before shipment.
11. Import Checklist: What to Verify Before Importing Shilajit from India
Before placing a bulk Shilajit order, international buyers should complete the following checklist.
Confirm that Shilajit is permitted in the destination country.
Verify the product's regulatory classification and intended use.
Check import licence and registration requirements.
Identify the Importer of Record.
Select a reliable Indian manufacturer.
Verify the manufacturer's relevant licences.
Obtain product specifications.
Request a batch-specific COA.
Verify heavy metal and microbiological test results.
Confirm destination-country labelling requirements.
Verify the applicable HS code.
Calculate customs duties and taxes.
Agree on MOQ, pricing and payment terms.
Finalise Incoterms and shipping arrangements.
Verify the commercial invoice and packing list.
Arrange customs clearance and final delivery.
Completing these checks before dispatch can help reduce regulatory, documentation and shipping-related problems.
Conclusion: Import Shilajit from India with the Right Supplier
Importing Shilajit from India can be a valuable sourcing opportunity for international distributors, wholesalers, supplement brands and private-label businesses.
However, a successful import involves more than selecting a manufacturer and arranging international transportation. Buyers must understand their destination country's import regulations, verify product classification, arrange the required documentation and ensure that the Shilajit meets applicable quality and safety standards.
Working with an experienced Indian manufacturer can make the sourcing process easier by providing product specifications, batch-specific COAs, relevant manufacturing documentation and support with export arrangements.
Aveda Ayur works with businesses looking to source Shilajit from India, including bulk supply and private-label manufacturing requirements.
International buyers can explore Aveda Ayur's Shilajit resin manufacturing solutions and discuss product specifications, quality documentation, packaging preferences and manufacturing requirements before confirming an order.
Looking for a Shilajit manufacturer in India? Contact Aveda Ayur to discuss bulk Shilajit sourcing, product specifications and private-label manufacturing opportunities.
The key to a successful Shilajit import is simple: verify regulatory requirements before purchasing, select a reliable manufacturer, check product quality and plan customs clearance in advance.
Disclaimer: Import requirements vary depending on the destination country, product classification, intended use and applicable regulations. The information in this article is for general educational purposes and should not be considered legal, customs or regulatory advice. Always verify the latest requirements with the relevant customs and food or medicine regulatory authorities before importing.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I import Shilajit from India?
Yes, businesses can source Shilajit from Indian manufacturers for international markets, subject to the importing country's regulations. Buyers should verify product admissibility, ingredient requirements and applicable import procedures before placing an order.
2. What documents are required to import Shilajit from India?
Commonly required commercial and supporting documents include a commercial invoice, packing list, Certificate of Analysis (COA), product specification sheet, Certificate of Origin where applicable, and Bill of Lading or Airway Bill. Additional documents, permits and declarations depend on the destination country and product category.
3. Do I need an import licence to import Shilajit?
Import licence requirements depend on the destination country and how Shilajit is classified. Some countries require importer registration, food business registration or product-specific approvals, while others may have different requirements.
4. Is Shilajit allowed to be imported as a dietary supplement?
This depends on the importing country's food and supplement regulations. Buyers should verify whether Shilajit is an acceptable ingredient, whether its intended use is permitted and whether additional approvals or restrictions apply.
5. How can I verify the quality of Shilajit before importing?
Request a batch-specific Certificate of Analysis, product specifications, relevant heavy metal and microbiological test results, manufacturing information and traceability records. Independent laboratory testing can also be arranged where necessary.
6. How much does it cost to import Shilajit from India?
The total importing cost depends on the order quantity, product specifications, manufacturing price, packaging, international freight, insurance, customs duties, taxes and clearance charges. Importers should calculate the complete landed cost before confirming their purchase.
7. Can I import bulk Shilajit resin from India for my own brand?
Yes, subject to applicable destination-country regulations. Many businesses explore bulk sourcing and private-label manufacturing to develop their own Shilajit product lines. Buyers should finalise product specifications, packaging, labelling and regulatory compliance before production.
8. How do I find a reliable Shilajit manufacturer in India?
Look for manufacturers with appropriate licences, transparent sourcing practices, documented purification processes, batch-specific testing, product traceability and the ability to provide export documentation. Always verify relevant certificates and product documents before placing a bulk order.
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