DGFT's new rules for AC imports: Right move with little impact, say experts

While companies cannot import gas-filled AC units, there are no curbs on importing similar AC units without refrigerant

The latest rules for importing AC units issued by the Director General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) is in line with the government's stated objective of making India self-reliant. However, its actual impact could be insignificant.

The DGFT has now prohibited import of air conditioning units that are filled with 'refrigerants'. The refrigerant or cooling agents are gases that fall in the category of Hydrochloroflurocarbon (HCFC) and hydroflurocarbon (HFC). Some of the most common varieties that can be found in Indian households are R22 (HCFC) and R410A (HFC).

While the new rules prohibit companies from importing gas filled AC units, there are no