In response to persistent global economic headwinds and the resulting pressures on India’s export sector, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has rolled out a set of comprehensive trade relief measures. Announced on November 14, 2025, these initiatives aim to ease liquidity constraints, support exporters facing shipment delays, and provide temporary breathing space to industries most affected by international trade disruptions. The measures—introduced through amendments to FEMA regulations and the RBI’s Trade Relief Measures Directions, 2025—are expected to significantly help businesses navigate the challenging external environment.
Extended Timelines for Export Realisation and Shipments
One of the most notable components of the relief package is the revision of export realisation norms. Exporters now have 15 months, instead of the earlier 9 months, to realise and repatriate export proceeds. This extension is particularly beneficial for sectors where payments are delayed due to weakened global demand, supply chain bottlenecks, or geopolitical uncertainties.
Alongside this, exporters receiving advance payments for goods now have up to three years to complete shipment—triple the previous one-year limit. This move acknowledges the unpredictable nature of current logistics cycles and allows businesses to better manage production, inventory, and shipping schedules without the fear of regulatory non-compliance.
Easing Debt Repayment for Impacted Sectors
Recognising that several industries are grappling with cash-flow stress, the RBI has introduced a temporary moratorium on loan repayments. Term loan instalments and interest on working capital facilities falling due between September 1 and December 31, 2025 may now be deferred. This intervention offers companies much-needed relief during a period of volatile global demand.
Further helping lenders and borrowers collaborate more flexibly, banks have been allowed to reassess or reduce margins while calculating drawing power for working capital loans. This regulatory leniency enables better access to funds at a time when businesses may be operating with reduced turnover or inventory levels.
Enhanced Support for Export Credit
To strengthen trade financing further, the RBI has extended the maximum permissible duration for pre-shipment and post-shipment export credit to 450 days for loans disbursed until March 31, 2026. Exporters often rely heavily on these credit lines to fund production and shipping activities; thus, the extended repayment window provides crucial operational stability.
In addition, lenders may now liquidate packing credit facilities—specifically those granted on or before August 31, 2025—even when shipments could not be executed. Repayment can be made through legitimate alternative sources such as domestic sales proceeds or funds from substitute export orders. This measure ensures that exporters are not penalized for circumstances beyond their control, such as abrupt cancellations or transportation challenges.
A Timely and Strategic Policy Response
Taken together, these measures reflect a proactive stance by the RBI to safeguard the export ecosystem during a turbulent global period. By enhancing flexibility, easing compliance timelines, and supporting liquidity, the central bank aims to help Indian exporters maintain competitiveness and continuity in global markets. With these guidelines coming into force immediately, businesses can begin leveraging the relief initiatives to stabilize operations and plan ahead with greater confidence.