DGFT Strengthens Rules to Prevent Misuse of Duty-Free Precious Metal Imports

The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) has released Public Notice No. 28/2025-26, introducing stricter timelines for exporters utilizing duty-free imports of gold, silver, and platinum under the Advance Authorisation Scheme. The revision aims to prevent diversion or misuse of imported precious metals intended exclusively for export manufacturing.

Under the updated guidelines, exporters must now fulfil their export obligations within 120 days from the date of import for each consignment. For findings, mountings, and similar components made of gold, silver, or platinum used in jewellery exports, the obligation period is set at 180 days.

The DGFT has explicitly stated that no extensions will be allowed beyond these specified deadlines. Exporters who have already met their obligations may continue to import gold as replenishment in accordance with existing provisions.

This amendment aligns the scheme with the Foreign Trade Policy (FTP) 2023, underscoring the government’s emphasis on tightened compliance, accountability, and ensuring that duty-free imports are strictly utilized for export production.