The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) has amended the import policy for Areca Nuts by introducing a new policy condition that restricts the import of the product below a specific minimum import price (MIP). The measure is effective immediately from the date of the notification, October 15, 2025.
The Central Government, through the Directorate General of Foreign Trade, has added a new policy condition against two ITC (HS) Codes related to Areca Nuts: 08028090 (Other Areca Nut) and 20081991 (Roasted Areca Nuts). This measure is effective immediately from the date of the notification, October 15, 2025.
Import Policy Details
The new policy establishes a Minimum Import Price (MIP) of Rs 351 per kilogram to regulate imports:
- Unroasted Areca Nut (ITC (HS) Code 08028090): The import policy remains “Prohibited,” but import is now allowed if the CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight) value is Rs 351 and above per Kilogram.
- Roasted Areca Nuts (ITC (HS) Code 20081991): Import of Roasted Areca Nuts having a CIF value less than Rs 351 per Kilogram is “Prohibited”. The import of all other roasted nuts and seeds remains “Free”.
Exemptions from the MIP Condition
The MIP condition will not be applicable for imports conducted under certain categories, ensuring that the restriction does not impede export-oriented manufacturing and trade facilitation schemes:
- 100 percent Export Oriented Units (EOUs).
- Units located in Special Economic Zones (SEZ).
- Imports conducted under the Advance Authorization Scheme.
This notification effectively restricts the import of Areca Nuts and Roasted Areca Nuts below the specified price threshold to support domestic producers and stabilize market pricing.