Centre Slashes Import Duty on Crude Edible Oils to Combat Soaring Prices
The Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution has announced a reduction in the Basic Customs Duty (BCD) on major imported crude edible oils. The duty on crude sunflower, soybean, and palm oils has been cut from 20% to 10%.
India Prohibits All Imports and Transit of Goods from Pakistan
The Government of India, under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, has announced an immediate prohibition on the import and transit of all goods originating in or exported from Pakistan. This notification issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) on May 2, 2025 was published on May 26, 2025. It inserts a new Para 2.20A into the Foreign Trade Policy (FTP) 2023.
DGFT Removes Port Restrictions and Testing Requirements for Leather Exports
The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) has announced the immediate removal of port restrictions and mandatory testing requirements for various types of finished and semi-finished leather. This is a move aimed at boosting leather exports.
Restoration of RoDTEP Benefits for Advance Authorization Holders
The restoration of RoDTEP benefits will reduce the cost of exported goods, making Indian products more competitive in international markets.
Implementation of Agreement Between India and Bhutan to Streamline Food Imports
For imported food consignments from approved Bhutanese manufacturers, if accompanied by the prescribed Health Certificate duly issued by the BFDA Competent Authority, a No Objection Certificate (NOC) may be granted based on the compliant Health Certificate.
India Imposes Port Restrictions on Imports from Bangladesh
The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) has issued a notification imposing port restrictions on the import of several categories of goods from Bangladesh into India. The directive, effective immediately from May 17, 2025, aims to regulate the entry points for specific commodities.
India Bans All Imports from Pakistan Citing National Security
The Indian government has announced an immediate ban on the import of all goods originating from or exported by Pakistan. The notification explicitly prohibits both direct and indirect import, as well as the transit of all goods originating in or exported from Pakistan, regardless of whether those goods were previously freely importable or otherwise permitted.
India Bans The Fishy Business Of Growth-Promoting Antibiotics In Seafood Exports
The Ministry of Commerce and Industry has issued an order dated May 1, 2025, imposing stricter regulations on the use of antimicrobial substances in the aquaculture industry. The Central Government has explicitly prohibited the use of any antimicrobial medicinal product aimed at promoting growth or increasing yield in fish and fishery products intended for export.
Government Extends Validity of Tobacco Grower Registrations and Barn Licenses to 3 Years
The Government of India has decided to extend the validity of the Certificate of Registration for Virginia tobacco growers and the License for operation of a barn from the current one year to three years to ease the burden on tobacco farmers and promote ease of doing business.
DGFT Launches ‘Global Tariff and Trade Helpdesk’ to Assist Exporters and Importers Amid Evolving Trade Landscape
In response to the dynamic global trade environment marked by tariff changes, import surges, and export challenges, the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) has launched a dedicated “Global Tariff and Trade Helpdesk.” This initiative aims to provide crucial support to Indian exporters and importers navigating the complexities of international trade.
