Laptop Imports Restricted from 1st November 2023

The Import Policy in respect of few goods viz. laptops etc. falling under Heading 8471 of ITC (HS) Import Policy was amended from “Free” to Restricted w.e.f. 3 August 2023 Vide Notification No. 23/2023 dated 3 August 2023. Consequently, for import of these items required an import authorization from DGFT.

Now, the GOI has issued the Notification dated 4 August 2023, amending the Notification dated 3 August 2023.  As per the amendment, restriction imposed on 3 August 2023 will be given effect from 1 November 2023.

 

No import authorization is required for Laptops, Tablets, All-in-one Personal Computers, and Ultra small form factor Computers and Servers imported and cleared till 31 October 2023.

 

From 1 November 2023, the import clearance of these goods can be made only against a valid import authorization. Thus, the Notification dated 3 August 2023 imposing restrictions on import of laptop etc. has been deferred till 31 October 2023.

 

The emphasis in the amending notification is on “import clearance from 1 November 2023”, which means the transitional provisions contained in para 1.05 of the Foreign Trade Policy may not apply.

 

The laptops etc. deposited in customs bonded warehouse up to 31 October 2023, can be cleared for home consumption till 31 October 2023. Any clearance of these goods from the customs bonded warehouse will require import authorization. This is so, even for clearances from SEZ/FTWZ.

 

The imports from 1 November 2023 against an import authorization will be subject to actual user condition, unless dispensed with by the DGFT.

 

~dgft.gov.in