Annual registration required for IT hardware importers under new system

This policy change comes against the backdrop of proposed import curbs on laptops and IT hardware, slated to take effect from 1 November

Importers of laptops, tablets, and other IT hardware will need to apply for fresh registration annually as part of the government’s new import monitoring system, according to industry sources.

The monitoring system, which is already live, aims to gather advance information about imports, including the country of origin. Importers can apply for registration via the existing DGFT (Directorate General of Foreign Trade) portal. These issues were discussed during a recent stakeholder consultation between the DGFT, the Ministry of Electronics and Information (MeitY), and the industry.

Government officials have clarified that the approval for import is expected to be granted within 24-72 hours. The only reason for application rejection would be inadequate information provided during the registration process, according to inputs from the IT industry body Nasscom.

This development follows proposed import curbs on laptops, other personal computers, and related IT hardware. These import restrictions, the government earlier said, are set to be implemented from November 1.

This move, which meant that such items would be subject to an import licensing regime, raised concerns in the ICT (information and communication technology) industry and among India’s key trading partners, such as the US and the European Union.

The government, it is learnt, has seemingly softened its stance by doing away with any import “restriction”. It is unlikely to use the word “licence” henceforth in this connection and shall only ensure that it has advance information about IT hardware items reaching Indian shores.

“The industry has received a major indication about relaxation from the government, as officials have clarified that there will be no restriction on imports. Items imported in special economic zones and software technology parks of India will not require separate registration,” said an industry executive.

Business Standard earlier reported that the government has assured that the “import management system” will have enough flexibility to review norms in case of sudden supply-chain disruption or high and unanticipated requirement of these products.

Lastly, the government has made it clear that it encourages companies to diversify their imports of these products from various regions and states rather than risk domination by one country.

ON THE CARDS
 

> Firms need to register on Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT)'s existing portal to import laptop, PCs, and other hardware devices

> Decision on application to be conveyed within 24-72 hours  

> Rejection of application only in case of inadequate information

> Part of recent discussions between DGFT, MeitY, and industry stakeholders