Stricter export, import norms for dual-use tech

The government intends to tighten the data collection procedure for import and export of dual-use technology or special chemicals, organisms, materials, equipment and technologies (SCOMET) items.

The commerce ministry has asked the revenue department to ensure that export and import of these items be permitted only after manual or systemic verification of each product's code with its classification.

"We want to ensure total accuracy in data collection pertaining to dual-use items. This is also required under international conventions to which India is a signatory," an official said.

Officials said since the export and import of SCOMET items was limited to around 50, individual verification of the code with the product would not hold up trade in other items.

The government had last year introduced norms under which exporters that wanted a licence for export of dual-use technology items or SCOMET items were assessed for risk of these items falling into the hands of terrorists and non-state actors.

The assessed risk was part of the criteria notified by the commerce and industry ministry for examining application of such licences.

All applications for licences would have to be accompanied with certificates saying that the item would be used only for the purpose stated and that they would not be modified or replicated without the government's consent.