DGFT extends free import of laptop, PCs, tablets till December 31

The DGFT on September 24, released a circular extending the import management system for laptops

The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) on September 24 released a circular notifying the extension of the existing import management system (IMS) for PCs, laptops, tablets till December 31, 2024.

The IMS allows free import of such items. However, from the period starting from January 1, 2025, importers will have to apply for fresh authorisations, and the DGFT will release detailed directions in that regard, the circular said.

"Importers would be required to apply for fresh authorisations for the period of 01.01.2025 subject to detailed guidance to be provided shortly," the circular accessed by Moneycontrol read.

As Moneycontrol had earlier reported, manufacturers who have already received authorisations for imports, but whose validity was scheduled to end on September 30, will now be valid till the year-end, the circular added.

Before the issuance of this circular, the system that allows free import of such items was scheduled to end on September 30.

The industry, which includes laptop, and personal computer (PC) manufacturers, has been "waiting with trepidation" for an update on the way ahead.

American tech companies raised concerns that going back to the government’s initial proposal of licensing norms for the PC ecosystem would spell the death knell for India's tech dreams.

In a statement to the publication, Kumar Deep Banerjee, Country Director ITI Council said “ We thank the government for extending the current import management system. However, industry needs more clarity on the proposed new import authorisation scheme, set to be in place from January 2025. We expect a robust stakeholder consultation before implementing any new requirements."

ITI Council's members include laptop, tablet and PC makers such as Apple, Microsoft, Dell, Lenovo and others.

In August 2023, the government announced restrictions on the free import of laptops, tablets, personal computers and similar products, requiring companies to obtain licences for these imports.

The move was aimed at boosting opportunities for domestic manufacturers and ensuring a trusted supply chain, as India remains heavily reliant on imports for such electronics.

The policy, however, faced strong opposition from global tech giants such as Dell, Acer, Samsung, Panasonic, Apple, Lenovo and HP, who argued it would disrupt their operations.

The government rolled back the restrictions the following month, extending the free import window by a year to September 2024.