Introduction: The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), under the Ministry of Commerce & Industry, Government of India, has issued Notification No. 54/2023 on 28th December, 2023. This notification brings about a significant extension in the “Free” Import Policy for Urad [Beans of the SPP Vigna Mungo (L.) Hepper] and Tur/Pigeon Peas (Cajanus Cajan) till 31st March 2025, as outlined in ITC (HS) 2022, Schedule — I.
Detailed Analysis: The extension in the Import Policy is a result of the powers conferred by Section 3 and Section 5 of the Foreign Trade (Development and Regulation) Act, 1992, read with the Foreign Trade Policy (FTP), 2023. The Central Government, in exercise of these powers, has amended the Import Policy Conditions for the specified commodities.
The specific ITC (HS) codes affected by this amendment are 07133110 for Urad and 07136000 for Tur/Pigeon Peas. The Import Policy for Urad, previously ‘Free’ up to 31st March 2024, has now been extended to 31st March 2025. Similarly, the ‘Free’ Import Policy for Tur/Pigeon Peas has also been extended till 31st March 2025. This extension is aimed at providing stability and continuity in trade activities related to these essential commodities.
The effect of this notification is clear — businesses and stakeholders involved in the import of Urad and Tur can continue their operations without any change in the import policy until the specified date. The decision to extend the Import Policy aligns with the government’s efforts to facilitate smooth trade and ensure a steady supply of these pulses in the domestic market.
The approval of the Minister of Commerce & Industry underscores the significance of this decision, emphasizing its alignment with broader trade and economic objectives. The role of the DGFT, as the authority responsible for regulating foreign trade, is pivotal in shaping policies that impact the import and export landscape.
Conclusion: In conclusion, DGFT Notification No. 54/2023 brings positive news for businesses involved in the import of Urad and Tur. The extension of the “Free” Import Policy till 31st March 2025 provides a clear regulatory framework, fostering an environment of predictability and continuity. Stakeholders are encouraged to stay informed about such regulatory updates to navigate the dynamic landscape of foreign trade effectively. This move by the Government of India reflects its commitment to supporting trade activities and ensuring a stable supply chain for essential commodities.
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Government of India
Ministry of Commerce & Industry
Department of Commerce
Directorate General of Foreign Trade
Notification No. 54/2023-DGFT | Dated: 28th December, 2023
Subject: Extension in “Free” Import Policy of Urad [Beans of the SPP Vigna Mungo (L.) Hepper] [ITC(HS) 0713 31 10] and Tur/Pigeon Peas (Cajanus Cajan) [ITC(HS) 0713 60 00] under ITC (HS) 2022, Schedule — I (Import Policy) till 31.03.2025
S.O.5478(E): In exercise of powers conferred by Section 3 read with Section 5 of the Foreign Trade (Development and Regulation) Act, 1992 (22 of 1992), read with paragraphs 1.02 and 2.01 of the Foreign Trade Policy (FTP), 2023, as amended from time to time, the Central Government hereby amends the Import Policy Conditions as under:
| ITC(HS) Code | Item Description | Import Policy | Existing Policy Condition | Revised Policy Condition |
| 07133110 | Urad [Beans of the SPP Vigna Mungo (L.) Hepper] | Free | Import is ‘Free’ up to 31.03.2024. | Import is ‘Free’ up to 31.03.2025. |
| 07136000 | Tur/Pigeon Peas (Cajanus Cajan) | Free | Import is ‘Free’ up to 31.03.2024. | Import is ‘Free’ up to 31.03.2025. |
Effect of the Notification: The “Free” Import Policy of Urad and Tur stands extended up to 31.03.2025.
This is issued with the approval of Minister of Commerce & Industry.
(Santosh Kumar Sarangi)
Director General of Foreign Trade &
Ex- officio Addl. Secretary to the Government of India
[File No. M-5012/300/2002/PC-2(A)/E-1657]
