The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) on Thursday restricted import of certain laptops, tablets and personal computers under HSN 8471 with immediate effect.

In its notification, it was stated that the import of restricted items will be allowed only against a valid license meant for restricted imports.

And it further clarified that it does not applicable to imports under Baggage rules.

“Exemption from import licensing is allowed for one laptop, tablet, all-in-one Personal Computer or Ultra small form factor Computer, including those purchased from e-commerce portals, through post or courier, subject to applicable duty payment," said the notification issued by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Department of Commerce, Government of India.

India's licensing requirement for imports of laptops, tablets and personal computers will ensure security of its citizens, a source familiar with the matter told Reuters on Thursday, adding the decision was in compliance with the World Trade Organization's requirements.

As per the notification, the exemption from import licence is provided for up to 20 such items per consignment for the purpose of R&D (research and development), testing, benchmarking and evaluation, repair and re-export, and product development purposes."

The notification also said that the "given imports shall be allowed subject to the condition that the imported goods shall be used for the stated purposes only and will not be sold. Further, after the intended purpose, the products would either be destroyed beyond use or re-exported."

The government clarified that the items being re-imported after being repaired abroad, licence for Restricted Imports of such goods will not be needed.

The order further stated, “Laptops, Tablets, All-in-one Personal Computers and Ultra small factor Computers and Servers which are an essential part of a Capital Good shall be exempted from the import licencing requirements."

The curbs on import will gove opportunity and boost to local manufacturers of various electronic items.

Source-Mint