Insights & Expertise

DGFT Restricted Imports Authorisation in India: Complete Step-by-Step Guide (2026)

Importing restricted items into India is governed by strict regulations issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT). Any importer dealing with restricted goods must obtain prior DGFT Authorisation, failing which Customs clearance will not be permitted.

This detailed guide explains the DGFT Restricted Imports Authorisation process, eligibility, fees, validity, amendments, revalidation, and common mistakes — helping importers avoid delays and rejections.

India TRQ List 2026 : Sri Lanka, Mauritius CECPA, MERCOSUR & Australia ECTA

The Tariff Rate Quota (TRQ) provisions under the India–Sri Lanka TRQ, India–Mauritius CECPA TRQ, India–MERCOSUR Preferential Trade Agreement, and India–Australia ECTA TRQ allow eligible goods to be imported at concessional  customs duty within a pre-defined TRQ quota limit. Once the TRQ quantity is exhausted, standard customs duties become applicable. 

Trq scheme and India fta list 2026

In the competitive landscape of international trade, high customs duties often act as the biggest barrier to profitability. For Indian importers, two powerful government mechanisms exist to legally slash these costs: Tariff Rate Quotas (TRQ) and Free Trade Agreements (FTAs).

TRQ is a quota-based system that allows you to import specific "sensitive" commodities—such as Gold, Corn, or Polymers—at a significantly lower duty rate, up to a fixed quantity limit. Once the quota is full, higher standard duties apply, making timely application crucial.

FTAs, such as the India-UAE CEPA or India-ASEAN pacts, are broader agreements that eliminate or reduce duties on thousands of products, provided you meet the "Rules of Origin" criteria.

Demystifying SIIB in Indian Customs: A Guide for Importers & Exporters

SIIB Customs Investigation: Meaning, Full Form & Advisory Guide

What is SIIB in Indian Customs? Learn the full form, why investigations happen, and what to do if your import/export shipment is stuck.

New Interest Subvention Scheme 2026: 2.75% Relief for MSME Exporters

DGFT has launched the new Interest Subvention Scheme under Niryat Prothsahan 2026. MSME Exporters can now avail 2.75% interest relief up to ₹50 Lakhs/year. Read the full details here.

The Complete Checklist of Documents Required for Sugar Export (2025 Edition)

Exporting sugar (HS Code 1701) is profitable, but it is also one of the most regulated trades in the world. Unlike general goods, sugar is often considered an "Essential Commodity," meaning governments tightly control its movement to ensure domestic availability.

For a new exporter, a single missing document can lead to your container getting stuck at the port, resulting in massive demurrage charges (port rental fees) and a cancelled contract.

This guide provides the ultimate checklist of documents you need to clear customs and get paid safely.