The Union commerce ministry has decided to defer the implementation of recently announced import restrictions on laptops, personal computers (PC), tablets, and related items until October 31. In a notification issued on August 4.
The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) stated that import consignments can be cleared without a license for restricted imports until the specified date.
The government aims to allow a smooth transition period for manufacturers before enforcing the new norms, requiring a valid license for restricted imports starting from November 1.
Purpose of the Move:
The decision to delay the import curbs comes following concerns raised by manufacturers, including industry giants like Apple, Samsung Electronics, and HP Inc, who reportedly suspended new imports of laptops and tablets to India in response to the restrictions.
Union Minister of State for Electronics and IT, Rajeev Chandrasekhar, emphasized that the policy aims to ensure the use of “trusted hardware and systems” in the Indian tech ecosystem, reduce import dependence, and promote domestic manufacturing.
Industry Response and Impact:
Experts predict near-term price hikes for certain products, particularly for Apple, whose laptops are entirely import. However, Dell and HP, which already have manufacturing facilities in India, may benefit from the policy as it aligns with the ‘Make in India’ initiative.
The move could encourage increased domestic manufacturing in the long run. Aligning with the government’s longstanding push for the industry to manufacture in India.