The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) has issued Public Notice No. 28/2025-26, tightening timelines for exporters availing of duty-free imports of precious metals under the Advance Authorisation scheme. The move aims to curb misuse of imported gold, silver, and platinum meant for export manufacturing.
The policy amendment stipulates that exporters must now complete their export obligations within 120 days from the date of import for each consignment. The obligation period has been fixed at 180 days for findings, mountings, and similar components made of gold, silver, or platinum used in jewellery exports.
The DGFT has made it clear that no extensions will be granted beyond these timelines. Exporters who have fulfilled their export commitments may, however, import gold as replenishment as per existing norms.
The amendment brings the policy in line with the Foreign Trade Policy (FTP) 2023, reinforcing the government’s focus on tightening compliance and ensuring that duty-free imports are used strictly for export production.