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India-UK Trade Deal: Luxury Cars and EVs Are Getting Cheaper!

The Indian government (Directorate General of Foreign Trade) has just rolled out a new Tariff Rate Quota (TRQ) system under the India-UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA).

In plain English? A set number of British cars can now enter India every year at massive tax discounts.

· The Big Tax Cuts

Luxury Petrol & Diesel Cars: High-end, large-engine vehicles will see import taxes plummet from a base rate of customs duty of 110% down to just 10% over the next 5 years.

Electric & Hybrid Vehicles: Premium UK-made electric cars (valued over £40,000) will see duties slashed to as low as 10% or even 0% depending on the timeline.

Commercial Goods Vehicles: Cargo trucks will also enjoy a reduced in-quota duty of 8.8% (down from 44%).

· How the Quota System Works

Authorized Sellers Only: Only Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) or their authorized dealers can apply for these tax breaks.

Proof of Origin: Importers must show a valid Certificate of Origin to prove the vehicle was built in the UK.

Savings Passed to You: The policy explicitly states that importers should pass these concessional customs duty savings directly to the final buyer.

Why CETA Quota System is Important

The CETA Quota System is important for vehicle importers because it helps reduce customs duty on eligible UK-origin vehicles. However, the benefit is available only within the approved TRQ quota limit. Therefore, importers should check eligibility, HS code, Certificate of Origin, DGFT process, and required documents before applying. Proper planning can help businesses save import costs and complete customs clearance smoothly.

CETA Quota System helps eligible importers claim TRQ benefits on UK-origin vehicles. Under the CETA Quota System, importers must follow DGFT rules, quota limits, and customs documentation requirements.

· The Bottom Line

This deal is a major win for car enthusiasts. Expect a wider variety of premium British cars, luxury SUVs, and advanced electric vehicles on Indian roads at much more competitive prices.

Which British car brand are you most excited to see at a lower price? Let us know in the comments below!

EPCG Scheme Guide: Simple Explanation for Exporters

Many exporters want to import machinery for production, but high customs duty can increase the cost. This is where the EPCG Scheme helps.

· EPCG stands for Export Promotion Capital Goods Scheme.

Under this scheme, exporters can import capital goods like machinery, equipment, tools, moulds, dies, and production-related machines at zero customs duty, subject to certain conditions.

· But there is one important point:

Exporter must complete Export Obligation within the prescribed time period.

In simple words, if an exporter saves duty by importing machinery under EPCG, then the exporter has to make exports as per DGFT rules.

· Benefits of EPCG Scheme:

1) It helps reduce machinery import cost. 2) It supports business expansion. 3) It improves production capacity. 4) It helps exporters become more competitive in the global market.

· Conclusion:

EPCG Scheme is a useful facility for exporters who want to upgrade machinery and grow their export business. However, proper documentation and timely export obligation compliance are very important.

For exporters, understanding EPCG before importing machinery can save cost and avoid future compliance issues.

Advance Authorization: Invalidation Letter vs ARO Guide

June 9, 2026

Advance Authorization in India: Invalidation Letter vs ARO Explained with Simple Examples

If you are an exporter in India, you may already be using the Advance Authorization (AA) scheme. This scheme allows you to import raw materials without paying customs duty, as long as you use those materials to make export products.

But here is something many exporters do not know:

You do not always need to import. You can also buy from Indian suppliers and still get the same benefit.

For this, the government provides two options under the Directorate General of Foreign Trade system:

Invalidation Letter

Advance Release Order (ARO)

This blog explains both in very simple language with examples.

What is Advance Authorization?

An Invalidation Letter is used when your Indian supplier needs to import raw materials to manufacture the product you require.

In simple words, you transfer the duty-free import benefit attached to your Advance Authorization to your supplier.

Example

Suppose you export office chairs and require specialized fabric.

A Surat-based fabric manufacturer can produce the fabric for you, but they need to import premium yarn from abroad.

Instead of importing the yarn yourself, you obtain an Invalidation Letter from DGFT.

Your supplier uses that letter to import the yarn duty-free, manufactures the fabric, and supplies it to you.

Best suited when the supplier needs to import inputs to fulfill your order.

What Is an Advance Release Order (ARO)?

An ARO is generally used when you purchase goods from an Indian supplier and the supplier wants to claim benefits available under the deemed exports provisions.

Scenario 1: Supplier Uses Imported Inputs

The supplier has imported raw materials, paid duties, and manufactures goods for you.

In this case, the supplier may claim eligible duty and tax benefits as permitted under the scheme.

Example: A packaging manufacturer imports special plastic granules, pays customs duty, manufactures export packaging, and supplies it to you under ARO.

Scenario 2: Supplier Uses Only Indian Inputs

The supplier manufactures the product entirely from locally sourced materials.

Since no imported inputs are involved, customs duty benefits do not arise. However, GST-related deemed export benefits may still be available.

Example: A box manufacturer in Ahmedabad supplies export packaging cartons made entirely from Indian paper and board.

Under ARO, they may claim applicable GST-related benefits.

The Simplest Way to Decide

Ask your supplier one question:

“Do you need to import raw materials to make my order, or are the goods already available?”

If the supplier needs to import inputs duty-free → Invalidation Letter

If the supplier wants to claim deemed export benefits on local supply → ARO

Why Exporters Prefer These Options

Faster procurement compared to direct imports

Lower freight and logistics costs

Reduced supply chain complexity

Better support for Indian manufacturers

Continued eligibility for Advance Authorization benefits

Final Takeaway

Many exporters automatically think of importing under Advance Authorization. However, local procurement through an Invalidation Letter or ARO can often be more efficient and cost-effective.

Understanding the difference can save time, reduce compliance risks, and help you choose the right DGFT route for

Preferential vs Non-Preferential Certificate of Origin: Key Differences

July 7, 2026

What is a Certificate of Origin (COO)?

A Certificate of Origin (COO) is an important export-import document that certifies the country where goods are manufactured, produced, or processed. It helps customs authorities identify the origin of the goods and apply the correct customs duty, trade rules, or import restrictions.

COO is commonly required during international trade, customs clearance, import licensing, duty benefit claims, and trade compliance. It also helps importers prove the origin of goods to banks, customs departments, buyers, and government authorities.

In simple words, a Certificate of Origin works as proof that the exported goods belong to a particular country. It plays an important role in smooth shipment clearance and proper documentation in global trade.

There are two types of Certificate of Origin:

1. Preferential Certificate of Origin

A Preferential Certificate of Origin is issued under a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) or Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA). It allows importers to claim reduced or zero customs duty, provided the goods meet the applicable Rules of Origin.

Benefits:

Reduced or zero import duty

Lower import cost

Better export competitiveness

2. Non-Preferential Certificate of Origin

A Non-Preferential Certificate of Origin confirms the country of origin but does not provide any customs duty benefit. It is mainly required for customs clearance, import licensing, and trade compliance.

Choosing the correct Certificate of Origin is important for smooth exports and imports. A Preferential Certificate of Origin helps importers save customs duty under eligible trade agreements, while a Non-Preferential Certificate of Origin serves as proof of the product’s origin for regulatory and customs purpose

DGFT Initiates Review of Wheat Flour Export Quota: What Exporters Need to Know

The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) has issued Trade Notice No. 10/2026-27 dated 1 July 2026, announcing a review of the allocated export quota for wheat flour and related products. The purpose of this exercise is to evaluate the utilization of existing quotas and reallocate any unutilized quantity to eligible exporters, ensuring efficient use of India's export quota.

Latest DGFT Update on Wheat Flour Export Quota

All exporters who have received DGFT authorization for the export of wheat flour and related products must submit updated utilization details for review.

Documents to Submit

Submit a CA Utilization Certificate confirming exports completed up to 30 June 2026.

Provide Shipping Bill details.

Specify any additional quota requirement or the surrender of unutilized quota.

Attach valid export contracts or purchase orders, wherever applicable.

Important Deadline

Exporters must submit the required information to DGFT on or before 10 July 2026. DGFT may not consider requests for additional allocation if exporters submit them after the deadline or without the prescribed documents.

Key Highlights of the Trade Notice

Exporters who have utilized more than 50% of their allocated quota may be considered for additional quota allocation.

Where utilization is below 50%, the unutilized quantity may be shifted to the common pool for reallocation unless supported by valid export contracts or purchase orders.

The Director General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) will decide the final reallocation based on the documents submitted by applicants.

Failure to submit the required information within the prescribed timeline may lead to reallocation of the unused quota and may also affect eligibility for future restricted export authorizations.

Why This Update is Important

This review helps maximize India's wheat flour export quota by transferring unused quantities to exporters with genuine export demand. Exporters should complete the documentation process within the stipulated timeline to protect their existing allocation and increase their chances of obtaining additional quota.

Conclusion

The DGFT Wheat Flour Export Quota Review requires all authorized exporters to comply with the latest DGFT guidelines. Businesses should promptly submit their CA Utilization Certificate, Shipping Bill details, and other supporting documents before 10 July 2026. Timely submission will help them retain their allocated quota and remain eligible for future allocations.

DGFT Extends Gold Import TRQ Authorisation Validity under India-UAE CEPA Until 30 September 2026

The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) has issued Public Notice No. 18/2026-27 dated 1 July 2026, extending the validity of Gold Import Tariff Rate Quota (TRQ) Authorisations under the India-UAE Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA).

This extension benefits importers who received Gold Import TRQ Authorisations during FY 2025-26 by providing additional time to utilize their approved import quota without completing any extra formalities.

What Has Changed?

The validity of Gold Import TRQ Authorisations (CTH 7108), which was originally set to expire on 30 June 2026, has now been extended until 30 September 2026.

The extension is automatic, meaning eligible importers are not required to:

Submit a fresh application.

Pay any additional fee.

Obtain an amendment or endorsement to their existing authorisation.

Key Highlights

Gold Import TRQ Authorisations issued during FY 2025-26 are now valid until 30 September 2026.

Applicable to Gold Imports (CTH 7108) under the India-UAE CEPA.

The validity extension takes effect automatically without additional documentation.

Provides importers with more time to plan shipments and complete customs clearance efficiently.

Why This Update Is Important

The extended validity offers much-needed flexibility to businesses importing gold under the India-UAE CEPA. Importers can now utilize their allocated TRQ more effectively without facing unnecessary compliance procedures or administrative delays. The amendment also supports smoother import planning, improved supply chain management, and timely customs clearance.

Conclusion

The latest DGFT notification provides a practical relief for importers holding Gold Import TRQ Authorisations issued during FY 2025-26. With the validity now extended until 30 September 2026, businesses have additional time to complete eligible imports under the India-UAE CEPA. Importers should take advantage of this extended period to optimize their import schedules, fully utilize their TRQ allocations, and continue complying with DGFT regulations.

DGFT Relaxes NFMIMS Registration Timeline for Copper & Aluminium Importers

The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) has simplified the NFMIMS Registration process for importers of Copper and Aluminium through Notification No. 22/2026-27 dated 30 June 2026.

What's New?

Earlier, NFMIMS Registration had to be completed before the import shipment arrived in India. Under the revised rule, importers can now complete the registration any time before Customs grants the "Out of Charge" order.

Key Benefits

More flexibility for importers.

Reduced compliance pressure before shipment arrival.

Smoother Customs clearance with fewer documentation delays.

Better plan

Important Points

NFMIMS Registration remains mandatory.

Registration must be completed before the "Out of Charge" order is issued by Customs.

Registration can still be filed up to 60 days before the expected arrival date and remains valid for 75 days.

Conclusion

This amendment is a welcome relief for Copper and Aluminium importers. While the registration requirement continues, the extended timeline makes compliance easier and helps avoid unnecessary delays during Customs clearance.

Advance Authorisation Norm: Made Simple for Exporters

If you're an exporter using the Advance Authorisation Scheme, you've likely come across terms such as SION, Net-to-Net, Adhoc Norms, and Self Declaration. While these terms may seem technical, they simply determine how much duty-free raw material you can import for manufacturing export products.

Understanding the correct Advance Authorisation norms helps exporters obtain approvals faster, remain compliant with DGFT regulations, and successfully fulfil their Export Obligation.

What Are Advance Authorisation Norms?

Under the Advance Authorisation Scheme, the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) specifies the quantity of inputs that can be imported duty-free for manufacturing export products. These input-output ratios are known as Norms.

Depending on your product and manufacturing process, one of the following norm categories will apply.

1. SION (Standard Input Output Norms)

SION (Standard Input Output Norms) are pre-approved norms notified by DGFT for thousands of export products.

These norms specify the exact quantity of raw materials, components, and consumables required to manufacture one unit of the export product. Since they are already approved, exporters can obtain an Advance Authorisation quickly without applying for separate norm fixation.

Best for: Products already covered under the DGFT SION schedule.

2. Net-to-Net Norms

Net-to-Net norms are applicable when imported components are directly incorporated into the exported product without any manufacturing loss or wastage.

The imported component retains its identity in the finished product, making this method common in electronics, engineering products, machinery, and assembly-based industries.

Best for: Assembly operations where imported components are used on a one-to-one basis.

3. Adhoc Norms

If your export product is new, innovative, or not covered under SION, and you are not eligible for Self Ratification or Self Declaration, you must apply for Adhoc Norms.

The exporter submits a detailed application to the DGFT Norms Committee, including the manufacturing process, technical specifications, and input consumption details. After examination, DGFT fixes product-specific norms before issuing the Advance Authorisation.

Best for: New products without existing DGFT norms.

4. Self Declaration

Under the Self Declaration route, there are no pre-fixed norms.

The exporter declares their own input-output consumption while applying for the Advance Authorisation. The authorisation is issued based on this declaration, and the proposed norms are later examined and approved by the DGFT Norms Committee during the redemption process.

Best for: Products where no standard norms exist and self-declared consumption is appropriate under DGFT provisions.

Which Norm Should You Choose?

The applicable norm depends on your export product and manufacturing process:

SION – When DGFT has already notified standard norms.

Net-to-Net – When imported components are directly incorporated into the exported product.

Adhoc Norms – When no SION exists and prior DGFT approval is required.

Self Declaration – When exporters declare their own consumption norms, subject to approval during redemption.

Conclusion

Selecting the correct Advance Authorisation Norm is essential for smooth imports, timely exports, and hassle-free DGFT compliance. Whether your product falls under SION, Net-to-Net, Adhoc Norms, or Self Declaration, understanding the applicable route can save both time and cost while ensuring successful redemption of your Advance Authorisation.

If you need expert assistance with Advance Authorisation, Norms Fixation, DGFT Licensing, or Export Obligation Compliance, our team is here to help.

Advance Authorisation Norm: Made Simple for Exporters

Understanding the correct Advance Authorisation norms helps exporters obtain approvals faster, remain compliant with DGFT regulations, and successfully fulfil their Export Obligation.

What Are Advance Authorisation Norms?

Depending on your product and manufacturing process, one of the following norm categories will apply.

1. SION (Standard Input Output Norms)

SION (Standard Input Output Norms) are pre-approved norms notified by DGFT for thousands of export products.

Best for: Products already covered under the DGFT SION schedule.

2. Net-to-Net Norms

Net-to-Net norms are applicable when imported components are directly incorporated into the exported product without any manufacturing loss or wastage.

The imported component retains its identity in the finished product, making this method common in electronics, engineering products, machinery, and assembly-based industries.

Best for: Assembly operations where imported components are used on a one-to-one basis.

3. Adhoc Norms

If your export product is new, innovative, or not covered under SION, and you are not eligible for Self Ratification or Self Declaration, you must apply for Adhoc Norms.

Best for: New products without existing DGFT norms.

4. Self Declaration

Under the Self Declaration route, there are no pre-fixed norms.

Best for: Products where no standard norms exist and self-declared consumption is appropriate under DGFT provisions.

Which Norm Should You Choose?

The applicable norm depends on your export product and manufacturing process:

SION – When DGFT has already notified standard norms.

Net-to-Net – When imported components are directly incorporated into the exported product.

Adhoc Norms – When no SION exists and prior DGFT approval is required.

Self Declaration – When exporters declare their own consumption norms, subject to approval during redemption.

Conclusion

If you need expert assistance with Advance Authorisation, Norms Fixation, DGFT Licensing, or Export Obligation Compliance, our team is here to help.

Export Obligation Calculation under Advance Authorisation: Quantity & Value Addition Explained

What is Export Obligation (EO)?

Under the Advance Authorisation Scheme, exporters can import eligible raw materials without paying customs duty. In return, they must fulfil an Export Obligation (EO) by exporting the specified finished goods within the prescribed period.

Many exporters think EO is simply based on the import value. However, DGFT calculates Export Obligation based on both quantity and value addition.

1. Export Obligation Based on Quantity

DGFT determines how much finished product can be manufactured from the imported inputs using Standard Input Output Norms (SION) or approved consumption norms.

Example:

Imported Copper Wire = 1,000 Kg

Approved Norm: 10 Kg Copper Wire → 8 Kg Finished Product

Therefore, the exporter must export 800 Kg of the finished product.

2. Export Obligation Based on Value Addition

DGFT also requires exporters to achieve the prescribed minimum Value Addition (VA).

Formula:

Value Addition (%) = (FOB Export Value − CIF Import Value) × 100 ÷ CIF Import Value

Example:

CIF Value of Imports = ₹20,00,000

Minimum Value Addition = 15%

Minimum Export Value required:

₹20,00,000 + 15% = ₹23,00,000

Therefore, exports must have an FOB value of at least ₹23 lakh.

Conclusion

Export Obligation under the Advance Authorisation Scheme is determined by both the quantity of finished goods to be exported and the minimum value addition required by DGFT. Understanding these requirements helps exporters remain compliant, avoid penalties, and maximize the benefits of duty-free imports.

Advance Authorisation for First-Time Exporters: A Beginner’s Roadmap

Introduction

For first-time exporters, controlling cost is very important. Import duty on raw materials can increase product cost and reduce profit margin. Advance Authorisation helps exporters import eligible inputs without paying customs duty, if those inputs are used for manufacturing export goods.

What is Advance Authorisation?

Advance Authorisation is a DGFT export benefit scheme that allows exporters to import raw materials, components, consumables, and packing materials duty-free for export production.

This scheme is useful for manufacturer exporters and merchant exporters with supporting manufacturers.

Simple Example

Suppose an exporter has an export order of ₹50 lakh.

Raw material imports value = ₹20 lakh Customs duty = 20% Duty payable without scheme = ₹4 lakh

With duty-free import under Advance Authorisation, customs duty can be saved.

Total saving = ₹4 lakh

This improves pricing, profit margin, and cash flow.

Key Benefits

Saves customs duty

Reduces export product cost

Improves cash flow

Helps offer competitive export pricing

Supports regular export orders

Who Can Apply?

The following exporters can apply:

Manufacturer exporters

Merchant exporters with supporting manufacturers

Exporters having confirmed export orders

Businesses using imported inputs for export production

Basic Documents Required

IEC Certificate

GST Certificate

Export Order

Input and export product details

Manufacturing process

RCMC, if applicable

Digital Signature Certificate

Beginner’s Roadmap

Check export product eligibility

Identify imported inputs

Check SION/input-output norms

File online application on DGFT portal

Get Advance Authorisation approval

Import inputs duty-free

Manufacture and export finished goods

Complete export obligation and closure

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Wrong product description

Incorrect input quantity

Not checking SION

Delay in export obligation

Poor documentation

Importing unapproved items

India's export-import regulatory framework has witnessed an important update with DGFT Public Notice No. 11/2025-27, introducing stricter conditions for gold imports under the Advance Authorization (AA) Scheme.

What Has Changed?

The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) has inserted five new notes under SION M-1 to M-8 (Gems & Jewelry Product Group) to strengthen monitoring and compliance of gold imports.

Maximum Gold Import Limit Advance Authorizations for gold imports will now be issued subject to a maximum limit of 100 kilograms.

Mandatory Physical Inspection First-time applicants seeking Advance Authorization for gold imports must undergo a physical inspection of their manufacturing facility by the concerned Regional Authority.

50% Export Obligation Requirement Subsequent authorizations will only be granted after fulfilling at least 50% of the export obligation under previous authorizations.

Fortnightly CA-Certified Reporting Authorization holders must submit a fortnightly performance report certified by an independent Chartered Accountant detailing gold imports and exports.

Enhanced DGFT Monitoring Regional Authorities will submit monthly consolidated reports to DGFT Headquarters for centralized monitoring and policy oversight.

Why Is This Important?

The new measures aim to:

Improve transparency in gold imports

Strengthen compliance under the Advance Authorization Scheme

Prevent misuse of import benefits

Enhance monitoring of the Gems & Jewellery sector

Businesses involved in gold imports and jewellery exports should review these changes carefully to ensure full compliance with the updated DGFT regulations.

What impact do you think these stricter gold import monitoring measures will have on India's Gems & Jewellery export sector?

India Bans Sugar Exports Till September 30, 2026 – What Exporters Need to Know

The Government of India has issued DGFT Notification No. 16/2026-27, introducing a major change in the country's sugar export policy. Under this notification, exports of Raw Sugar, White Sugar, and Refined Sugar classified under ITC (HS) Codes 1701 14 90 and 1701 99 90 have been moved from Restricted to Prohibited status with immediate effect until 30 September 2026 or until further orders.

Sugar Export Ban Implemented

The export policy for sugar has been changed from Restricted to Prohibited, impacting exporters across India.

Exceptions to the Ban

The prohibition does not apply to:

Exports to the EU and USA under CXL and TRQ Quotas

Exports under the Advance Authorization Scheme (AAS)

Government-to-Government exports for food security requirements

Consignments already in the export pipeline meeting specified conditions

Transitional Relief Available

Certain shipments may still be exported if loading, shipping bill filing, or customs handover occurred before the notification's publication date.

Why This Matters for Exporters

The decision aims to ensure domestic sugar availability and strengthen food security. Exporters, sugar mills, customs brokers, and international buyers should immediately review pending shipments and contractual obligations to avoid compliance issues.

Conclusion The latest DGFT Notification No. 16/2026-27 marks a significant shift in India's sugar trade policy. Exporters should carefully assess the notification's provisions and ensure compliance with the revised regulations to avoid disruptions in international trade.

Amendment in Para 2.88 – What Exporters Need to Know

India's export policy framework has been updated through an important amendment to Para 2.88 of the Foreign Trade Policy, impacting exports covered under Appendix 2B of ITC(HS). Exporters dealing with regulated products must carefully review the revised provisions to ensure compliance and avoid shipment delays.

Key Update

As per the latest policy amendment, exports of items covered under Para 2.51 to 2.73 and 2.75 of Appendix 2B of ITC(HS) shall be treated as "Free" exports, subject to compliance with the specific policy conditions applicable to the respective products.

This clarification simplifies the export process while maintaining regulatory oversight for sensitive goods.

Why This Amendment Matters

Easier export procedures for eligible products

Greater clarity in export classification

Reduced compliance confusion for exporters

Better alignment with India's foreign trade regulations

Improved export planning and documentation

Action Points for Exporters

Review the updated Para 2.88 Amendment

Verify applicable policy conditions for your product category

Ensure documentation compliance before shipment

Consult DGFT experts for classification-related queries

Conclusion

The revised provision under Para 2.88 is a significant step toward streamlining export operations while ensuring regulatory compliance. Exporters should stay updated and align their processes with the latest DGFT notifications to avoid disruptions.

Cow Dung Dhoop Sticks: A Natural Way to Purify Your Home and Enhance Spiritual Well-Being

Looking for an eco-friendly and traditional alternative to chemical-based incense? Cow Dung Dhoop Sticks are gaining popularity for their natural fragrance, spiritual significance, and environmental benefits.

Why Are Cow Dung Dhoop Sticks So Popular?

Made from pure cow dung and natural ingredients, these dhoop sticks are widely used during pooja, meditation, yoga sessions, and daily prayers. They create a calming atmosphere while helping to purify the surroundings.

Key Benefits of Cow Dung Dhoop Sticks

100% Natural & Organic – Free from harmful chemicals and artificial fragrances.

Eco-Friendly Incense Solution – Supports sustainable and environmentally responsible living.

Pleasant & Soothing Aroma – Creates a peaceful environment for worship and relaxation.

Ideal for Meditation and Spiritual Practices – Enhances focus, positivity, and mindfulness.

Traditional Ayurvedic Benefits – Used in Indian culture for centuries to cleanse and purify spaces.

How to Use Cow Dung Dhoop Sticks?

Simply light one end of the dhoop stick and allow it to smolder. Place it safely in a holder and let the natural fragrance spread throughout your home, temple, office, or meditation room.

Why Choose Natural Dhoop Over Chemical Incense?

Many commercial incense products contain synthetic fragrances that may cause irritation. Cow Dung Dhoop Sticks offer a safer, natural alternative that aligns with traditional Indian practices and promotes a healthier environment.

Final Thoughts

If you're searching for a sustainable, spiritual, and natural incense option, Cow Dung Dhoop Sticks are an excellent choice. They combine tradition, purity, and environmental responsibility while creating a serene and positive atmosphere.

DGFT Import License for Silver Now Mandatory in India? (New Notification 19/2026-27)

If you are an importer, jeweler, or trade consultant dealing with silver in India, the regulatory landscape just shifted dramatically.

On June 2, 2026, the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) issued Notification No. 19/2026-27, bringing immediate and sweeping amendments to the import policy conditions for specific ITC HS codes under Chapter 71 (Schedule - I).

Here is a layman’s breakdown of what has changed, which HS codes are affected, and how this impacts your trade operations.

What is the Major Change?

Previously, nominated agencies (notified by the RBI and DGFT) and qualified jewelers (notified by the IFSCA via the India International Bullion Exchange - IIBX) could import specified silver items under restricted but direct pathways.

The New Rule: Under the revised policy, imports through these nominated banks, agencies, or the IIBX shall be permitted only against a valid DGFT Import License for Silver (Import Authorization).

Essentially, an extra layer of strict regulatory approval has been mandated with immediate effect.

Affected ITC HS Codes & Item Descriptions

The amendment specifically targets unwrought silver, powder, and grains under the following codes:

ITC (HS) Code

Item Description

New Policy Condition

7106 10 00

Silver Powder

Imports by RBI-notified banks or DGFT-notified agencies now strictly require a DGFT Import License for Silver.

7106 91 10

Silver Grains

Imports via nominated agencies or qualified jewelers through the IIBX now require a valid DGFT Import Authorization.

7106 91 20

Containing 99.9% or more by weight of silver

Imports via nominated agencies, banks, or qualified jewelers through the IIBX are restricted without a valid DGFT Authorization.

7106 91 90

Other Unwrought Silver

Imports via RBI/DGFT nominated agencies are permitted only against a valid Import Authorization issued by the DGFT.

Note on Silver Dore: The policy for Silver Dore remains largely unchanged in its core requirement—it can still be imported by refineries against a license with an Actual User (AU) Condition.

The Bottom Line for Importers

The government is tightening its grip on precious metal inflows to better monitor trade balances and streamline compliance. If you have consignments in the pipeline or are planning future shipments under Chapter 71, you must immediately factor in the processing time for securing a DGFT Import License for Silver. Operating under old assumptions will lead to customs delays or transitions being flagged at port.

What are your thoughts on this sudden move by the Ministry of Commerce & Industry? Do you think this will heavily impact domestic silver prices or jewelry manufacturing timelines? Let’s discuss in the comments below!

Notification No. 19/2026-27, issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade, Department of Commerce, India.

Enhancing India’s Global Export Footprint: Meet the 40 Non-Official Members Driving the Board of Trade

Introduction

India's trade ecosystem is gearing up for a monumental shift. In a major move to streamline export strategies and inject fresh perspective into international commerce, the Ministry of Commerce and Industry's Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) has officially reconstituted its advisory framework. Through Notification No. 18/2026-2027, issued on June 2, 2026, the government has expanded its roster to nominate 40 distinguished Board of Trade Non-Official Members.

This panel supersedes the previous 2022 notification that nominated 29 members. It draws heavily from top-tier corporate leaders, industry champions, financial experts, and trade body representatives to fuel India’s vision of becoming a global trade powerhouse.

Who are the New Board of Trade Non-Official Members?

The newly nominated members represent a diverse mix of sectors, including technology, manufacturing, banking, agriculture, and logistics. This ensure a comprehensive approach to tackling trade barriers. Notable names among the 40 corporate and industry stalwarts include:

Shri C. S. Setty (Chairman, SBI)

Shri Virat Bhatia (MD, Apple India)

Shri Anish Shah (MD, Mahindra & Mahindra)

Shri Shridhar Vembu (Co-founder, Zoho Corporation)

Shri Satish Reddy (Chairperson, Dr. Reddy's Laboratories Ltd.)

Shri Jayen Mehta (Chairman, GCMMF / Amul)

Shri Rajiv Mamani (Chairman and CEO, EY India)

The list also prominently features the Presidents of premier professional bodies, including the ICAI, ICSI, and ICMAI, ensuring that compliance, financial auditing, and cost-competitiveness are factored directly into India's long-term export strategies.

What is the Role of These Members?

The Board of Trade (BOT)—which was originally formed by merging the Council for Trade Development and Promotion with the old Board of Trade—acts as a vital bridge between the Government of India, State Governments, Union Territories, and private industry players.

The extensive Terms of Reference outline precisely what these Board of Trade Non-Official Members are tasked to do:

State & District Level Synergy: Providing a dedicated platform for State Governments and UTs to voice trade-specific perspectives and acting as facilitators for the implementation of localized District Export Hub initiatives.

Strategic Advisory: Advising the Indian Government on short-term and long-term policy formulation to significantly boost export volumes.

Infrastructure Optimization: Identifying existing logistical bottlenecks and infrastructure gaps that actively hinder India’s export capacity, while establishing clear mechanisms to optimize current trade infrastructure.

Global Competitiveness: Reviewing current import-export frameworks and procedures to minimize bureaucratic red tape, streamline operations, and enhance the international competitiveness of Indian goods and services.

The Bottom Line

By bringing together the finest minds from tech conglomerates, automotive giants, agricultural cooperatives, and premium consulting groups, India is signaling a hyper-collaborative approach to foreign trade. With the guidance of these 40 Board of Trade Non-Official Members, the country is well-positioned to navigate changing international trade dynamics, address infrastructure gaps, and robustly drive its national export agenda.

What do you think is the biggest hurdle these new members need to address for Indian exporters? Let’s discuss in the comments below!

How can Indian exporters benefit from the new India-Oman CEPA, and what is the latest DGFT update regarding it?

If you are an Indian exporter eyeing the Middle Eastern market, the Ministry of Commerce and Industry just handed you a massive advantage.

On June 2, 2026, the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) issued Public Notice No. 16/2026-27, which officially streamlines the process for businesses to claim preferential tariff benefits under the newly minted India-Oman trade deal.

Here is a breakdown of what changed and how it impacts your business.

What is the New DGFT Update?

The DGFT has amended Para 2.88 of the Handbook of Procedures (HBP) 2023. Specifically, a new entry (serial no. xvi) has been inserted to officially include the India-Oman Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (India-Oman CEPA) into the recognized list of Free Trade Agreements (FTAs).

Why This Matters: The India-Oman CEPA Certificate of Origin

To enjoy the duty-free or reduced-tariff access promised under a trade agreement, exporters must prove their goods actually originated in India. This is done via a Certificate of Origin (Coo).

With this amendment, the DGFT has integrated the India-Oman CEPA Certificate of Origin into the common digital platform.

The Big Benefit: Exporters can now seamlessly apply for and obtain their Coo under the India-Oman CEPA through authorized government agencies online. This eliminates bureaucratic red tape, reduces processing times, and ensures your shipments clear Omani customs without a hitch.

Key Takeaways for Exporters

Official Directive: Public Notice No. 16/2026-27, issued by DGFT Chief Lav Agarwal.

The Goal: To facilitate swift, digital issuance of the India-Oman CEPA Certificate of Origin to boost bilateral trade.

Action Item: If you are exporting to Oman, ensure your product lines comply with the specific Rules of Origin (Roo) outlined in the CEPA so you can leverage the online Coo system immediately.

This move is a massive step toward making Indian exports more competitive in the Gulf region.

Are you planning to export to Oman under this new framework? Drop your questions below, and let’s discuss the compliance rules!

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