15

FOREIGN TRADE
POLICY
For the sake of brevity, Foreign Trade Policy has been referred to as FTP at many places
in this Chapter.

LEARNING OUTCOMES

After studying this chapter, you would be able to:

 explain the legislation governing FTP, salient features of an
FTP, administration of FTP, contents of FTP and other
related provisions
 appreciate and explain the basic concepts relating to import
and export of goods under FTP
 analyse the basic concepts relating to export promotion
schemes provided under FTP namely, duty exemption and
remission schemes, reward schemes, EPCG, EOU, EHTP, STP
& BTP schemes, deemed exports and apply the same in
problem solving

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UNIT – I : INTRODUCTION TO FTP

1. INTRODUCTION
Foreign Trade Policy is a set of guidelines or instructions issued by the Central
Government in matters related to import and export of goods in India viz.,
foreign trade. In the era of globalization, foreign trade has become the
lifeline of any economy. Its primary purpose is not merely to earn foreign
exchange, but also to stimulate greater economic activity. International trade
not only enables a nation to specialize in the goods which it can produce most
cheaply and efficiently, but also to consume more than it would be able to
produce with its own resources. International trade enlarges the potential
markets for the goods of a particular economy.
Legislation governing foreign trade: In India, Ministry of Commerce and
Industry governs the affairs relating to the promotion and regulation of
foreign trade. The main legislation concerning foreign trade is the Foreign
Trade (Development and Regulation) Act, 1992 FT(D&R) Act. The FT(D&R)
Act provides for the development and regulation of foreign trade by
facilitating imports into, and augmenting exports from, India and for matters
connected therewith or incidental thereto. As per the provisions of the Act,
the Government:-
(i) may make provisions for facilitating and controlling foreign trade;
(ii) may prohibit, restrict and regulate exports and imports, in all or specified
cases as well as subject them to exemptions;
(iii) is authorised to formulate and announce an export and import policy and
also amend the same from time to time, by notification in the Official
Gazette;
(iv) is also authorised to appoint a 'Director General of Foreign Trade' for the
purpose of the Act, including formulation and implementation of the
export-import policy.
Foreign Trade Policy: In exercise of the powers conferred by the FT(D&R)
Act, the Union Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India
generally announces the integrated Foreign Trade Policy (FTP) every five
years with certain underlined objectives. The Foreign Trade Policy was earlier
called as Export Import policy i.e., EXIM Policy. However, export import policy
is now referred to as Foreign Trade Policy (FTP) of the country as it covers

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areas much beyond export and import. This policy is updated every year, in
addition to changes that are made throughout the year.
The FTP, in general, aims at developing export potential, improving export
performance, encouraging foreign trade and creating favorable balance of
payments position. The policies are driven by factors like export led growth,
improving efficiency and competitiveness of the Indian industries, ease of
doing business etc.

SALIENT FEATURES OF AN FTP

The following are some of the key attributes of the FTP:
♦ Export-Import of goods and services is generally free unless specifically
regulated by the provisions of the Policy or any other law for the time being
in force.
♦ Export and import goods are broadly categorized as – (a) Free (b) Restricted
(c) Prohibited.
♦ Some goods are ‘free’ for import and export but can be imported/exported
only through State Trading Enterprises (STE).
♦ There are restrictions on exports and imports for various strategic, health,
defence, environment, and other reasons. If the goods are restricted for
import/export but not prohibited, the Government can give a
permission/license for specific reasons.
♦ Exports are promoted through various promotional schemes.
♦ Goods and services are to be exported and not taxes. Hence, the taxes on
exports are either exempted or adjusted or refunded on both outputs and
inputs, through schemes of Duty Exemption, Duty Refund (Drawbacks and
Rebates).
♦ Capital goods can be imported at NIL duty for the purpose of exports under
the scheme of EPCG.
♦ For units undertaking to export all their production, there are special
schemes so that they can avoid taxes at every stage under the scheme of
EOU/SEZ.
♦ In certain cases imports get duty exemption/concession for certain special
purposes. In such cases, to enable domestic suppliers to compete with the
international suppliers, the supplies of domestic suppliers are treated as
deemed exports.

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 15.4 CUSTOMS & FTP

♦ Duty credit scrips Schemes are designed to promote exports of some

specified goods to specified markets and to promote export of specified
services.
Foreign Trade Policy 2015-2020 - The present Foreign Trade Policy, which
was announced on 01.04.2015, is an integrated policy for the period between
01.04.2015 and 31.03.2020.
Guiding principles: The guiding principles of FTP 2015-2020 are as follows –
♦ Generation of employment and increasing value addition in country, in
keeping with ‘Make in India’ vision.
♦ Focus on improving ‘ease of doing business’ and ‘trade facilitation’ by
simplifying procedures and extensive use of e-governance – move towards
paperless working.
♦ Encouraging e-commerce exports of specified products.
♦ Steps to encourage manufacture and export by SEZ, EOU, STP, EHTP and
BTP.
♦ Duty credit scrips to (a) encourage exports of specified products to
specified markets (b) export of services.
♦ Special efforts to resolve quality complaints and trade disputes.
The various measures taken in said direction include:
♦ The number of mandatory documents required for exports and imports of
goods from/into India have been reduced to 3 each..
♦ The facility of 24 X 7 Customs clearance for specified imports has been
made available at the 18 specified sea ports. The facility of 24 X 7 Customs
clearance for specified imports has also been made available at the 17
specified air cargo complexes.
♦ Single window scheme has been introduced to enable importer and
exporter to lodge their clearance documents at a single point thereby
providing a common platform to trade to meet requirements of all
regulatory agencies involved in exim trade.
♦ To facilitate processing of shipping bills before actual shipment, prior online
filing facility for shipping bills has been provided by the Customs - 7 days
for air shipments & ICDs and 14 days for shipments by sea.

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♦ DGFT under the EDI initiatives has provided the facility of on line filing of
applications to obtain Importer Exporter Code and various authorizations
/scrips.
Exports from and imports in India, need a lot of regulatory requirements to be
complied with at various stages. Yet if properly planned, exports and imports
can utilize a lot benefits that are available under various provisions of the FTP.
The policy not only prescribes the guidelines as to which goods and services
can be imported/exported and the relevant procedures thereto but also
provides a lot of benefits if properly planned.
Schemes like Duty Exemption Schemes, EPCG Schemes, Deemed Exports, etc.,
benefit exporters, importers and even defined domestic businesses thereby
assisting all businesses to reduce costs at every stage in the value chain. In
addition, exporters can avail other benefits under promotional schemes.

ADMINISTRATION OF THE FTP

The FTP is formulated, controlled and supervised by the office of the Director
General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), an attached office of the Ministry of
Commerce & Industry, Government of India. DGFT has several offices in
various parts of the country which work on the basis of the policy formed by
the headquarters at Delhi.
DGFT issues authorization (earlier called as licence) for import/export.
‘Authorization’ means a permission in terms of the FT(D&R) Act to import or
export. It also grants Importer Exporter Code (IEC) Number to importers and
exporters. Import and Export without IEC number is not permitted, unless
specifically exempted.
Decision of DGFT is final and binding in respect of interpretation of any
provision of foreign trade policy, classification of any item in ITC(HS), content
scope or issue of any authorization issued under the FTP.
Other authorities involved: Though the FTP is formulated by DGFT, it is
administered in close coordination with other agencies. Other important
authorities dealing with FTP are:
(1) Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC): CBIC comes
under Ministry of Finance and its two Departments namely, Customs and
GST facilitate in implementing the provisions of the FTP.
Customs Department is responsible for clearance of export and import goods
after their valuation and examination. Customs authorities follow the policy
formed by the DGFT while clearing the imported and export goods.

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Since there is Goods and Services Tax on almost all the goods and services
(except petroleum products, tobacco products and alcoholic liquor), Central
GST authorities need to be involved for all matters of exports, where goods
have to be cleared without payment of GST.
(2) Reserve Bank of India (RBI): RBI is the nodal bank in the country which
formulates the policies related to management of money, including payments
and receipts of foreign exchange. It also monitors the receipt and payments
for exports and imports. RBI works under the Ministry of Finance.
(3) State GST Departments: To avoid duel control, some taxable persons are
under jurisdiction of State GST authorities. In their case, State GST Authorities
are controlling authorities.

CONTENTS OF FOREIGN TRADE POLICY

The contents of the FTP 2015-2020 are as follows
(i) FTP 2015-2020: having 9 Chapters giving basic policy. This has been
notified by the Central Government on 01.04.2015. The policy is amended
normally in April every year and also during the year.
(ii) Handbook of Procedures 2015-2020: (HBP 2015-2020) containing 9
chapters, covering procedural aspects of policy. This has been notified by
Director General of Foreign Trade on 01.04.2015. It is amended from time to
time as per requirements.
(iii) Appendices and Aayat Niryat Forms (AANF): containing various
appendices and forms relating to import and export.
(iv) Standard Input-Output Norms: Standard Input-Output Norms (SION) of
various products are notified from time to time.. Based on SION, exporters are
provided the facility to make duty-free import of inputs required for
manufacture of export products under the Duty Exemption Schemes like
Advance Authorisation and DFIA.
(v) ITC(HS) Classification of Exports and Import Items: The Export Import
Policy regarding import or export of a specific item is given in the Indian Trade
Classification Code based on Harmonized System of Coding [ITC(HS)]. ITC-HS
Coding was adopted in India for import-export operations. Indian custom
uses eight digit ITC-HS Codes to suit the national trade requirements.
ITC-HS codes are divided into two schedules. ITC(HS) Import Schedule I
describe the rules and guidelines related to import policies where as Schedule
II describe the rules and regulation related to export policies. Presently, most
of the goods can be imported without any authorization. Schedule II contains

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very few products, where export is prohibited or restricted. Excluding those

items, export of all other goods is free.
Any changes or formulation or addition of new codes in ITC-HS Codes are
carried out by DGFT (Directorate General of Foreign Trade).
Foreign Trade Policy vis a vis tax laws: The Foreign Trade Policy is closely
knit with the Customs, GST Laws and Excise laws of India. However, the policy
provisions per-se do not override tax laws. The exemptions extended by FTP
are given effect to by issue of notifications under respective tax laws (e.g.,
Customs Tariff Act). Thus, actual benefit of the exemption depends on the
language of exemption notifications issued by the CBIC. In most of the cases
the exemption notifications refer to policy provisions for detailed conditions.
Ministry of Finance/ Tax Authorities cannot question the decision of
authorities under the Ministry of Commerce (so far as the issue of
authorization etc. is concerned).
FTP, Handbook of procedures under FTP, CGST Act, SGST Act, IGST Act, Central
Excise Act (for petroleum products and tobacco products), Customs Act and
notifications issued hereunder form an integrated scheme of indirect taxation.
All these statues have to be read as a whole and not in isolation, since they are
series of statues relating to related subject matter.

SCOPE OF FTP
The FTP covers the policies and regulations with respect to the following
matters:
(i) Legal framework and trade facilitation – Chapter 1
(ii) Policy for regulating import and export of goods and services – Chapter 2
(iii) Export Promotional Measures – Export from India Scheme – Chapter 3
(iv) Duty Remission and Duty Exemption Scheme for promotion of exports – AA
and DFIA and duty drawback – Chapter 4
(v) Export promotion Capital Goods (EPCG) Scheme – Chapter 5
(vi) Export Oriented Undertakings (EOU) / Electronic Hardware Technology Park
(EHTP) / Software Technology Park (STP) and Bio Technology Parks (BTU)
Schemes – Chapter 6
(vii) Deemed Exports – Chapter 7
(viii) Quality Complaints and Trade Disputes – Chapter 8

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(ix) Definitions – Chapter 9

Provisions relating to Special Economic Zone (SEZ) are contained in a separate
Act and are not part of FTP. However, provisions of SEZ are closely related to
Foreign Trade Policy.
Handbook of Procedures (HBP 2015-2020) has 9 corresponding chapters which
mainly deal with procedural aspects of the foreign trade policy.
Special Focus Initiatives: The FTP provides certain special focus initiatives for
Market Diversification, Technological Upgradation, Support to status holders,
Agriculture, Handlooms, Handicraft, Gems & Jewellery, Leather, Marine,
Electronics and IT Hardware Manufacturing Industries, Green products, Exports
of products from North-East, Sports Goods and Toys sectors wherein the
Government of India shall make concerted efforts to promote exports.
Board of Trade: Board of Trade (BOT) has been constituted to advise
Government on Policy measures for increasing exports, review export
performance, review policy and procedures for imports and exports and
examine issues relevant for promotion of India’s foreign trade. Commerce &
Industry Minister will be the Chairman of the BOT. Government shall also
nominate upto 25 persons, of whom at least 10 will be experts in trade policy.
In addition, Chairmen of recognized Export Promotion Councils (EPCs) and
President or Secretary-Generals of National Chambers of Commerce will be ex-
officio members. BOT will meet at least once every quarter.
Trade facilitation through EDI initiatives: DGFT has put in place a robust EDI
system for the purpose of export facilitation and good governance. DGFT has
set up a secured EDI message exchange system for various documentation
related activities including import and export authorizations established with
other administrative departments, namely, Customs, Banks and EPCs. This has
reduced the physical interface of exporters and importers with the
Government Departments and is a significant measure in the direction of
reduction of transaction cost. The endeavour of DGFT has been to enlarge the
scope of EDI to achieve higher level of integration with partner departments.
E-BRC (Electronic Bank Realisation Certificate) has enabled DGFT to capture
details of realisation of export proceeds directly from the banks through secured
electronic mode. Further, an online complaint registration and monitoring system
allows users to register complaint and receive status/ reply online.
DGCI&S Commercial Trade Data: DGCI&S has put in place a Data
Suppression Policy. Transaction level data would not be made publically
available to protect privacy. DGCI&S trade data shall be made available at

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aggregate level with a minimum possible time lag in a query based structured
format on commercial criteria.

2. PROVISIONS REGARDING IMPORTS AND

EXPORTS
A. GENERAL PROVISIONS APPLICABLE TO IMPORT AND
EXPORT OF GOODS
1. Exports and imports are free unless regulated: Exports and Imports
shall be free, except where regulated by FTP or any other law in force. The
item wise export and import policy shall be specified in ITC(HS) notified by
DGFT from time to time. These are classified as – (a) Free (b) Restricted (c)
Prohibited (d) Exclusive trading through State Trading Enterprise (STEs).
2. Compliance with laws: Every exporter or importer shall comply with the
provisions of the FT (D&R) Act, the rules and orders made there-under, the FTP
and terms and conditions of any authorization granted to him. All imported
goods shall also be subject to domestic laws, rules, orders, regulations,
technical specifications, environmental and safety norms as applicable to
domestically produced goods unless specifically exempted.
3. Interpretation of policy: If any question or doubt arises in respect of
interpretation of any provision, said question or doubt shall be referred to
DGFT whose decision thereon shall be final and binding.
4. Procedure: DGFT may specify procedure to be followed by an exporter
or importer or by any licencing or any other competent authority for the
purpose of implementing provisions of Foreign Trade Act, the rules and the
orders made there-under and FTP. Such procedures shall be published in Hand
Book of Procedures by means of a Public Notice, and may, in like manner, be
amended from time to time.
5. Exemption from Policy/Procedure: DGFT may pass such orders or grant
such relaxation or relief, as he may deem fit and proper, on grounds of
genuine hardship and adverse impact on trade. DGFT may, in public interest,
exempt any person or class or category of persons from any provision of FTP
or any procedure and may, while granting such exemption, impose such
conditions as he may deem fit.
6. Principles of Restriction: DGFT may, through a notification, adopt and
enforce any measure necessary for:

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(a) Protection of:-

(i) public morals.
(ii) human, animal or plant life or health.
(iii) patents, trademarks and copyrights and the prevention of deceptive
practices.
(iv) national treasures of artistic, historic or archaeological value
(v) trade of fissionable material or material from which they are derived
(b) Prevention of traffic in arms, ammunition and implements of war and use
of prison labour.
(c) Conservation of exhaustible natural resources.
7. Export/import of restricted goods/services: Any goods/services,
export or import of which is restricted under ITC(HS) may be exported or
imported only in accordance with an Authorization or in terms of a public
notice/notification issued in this regard.
8. Terms and Conditions of an authorization: Every Authorization shall be
valid for prescribed period of validity and shall, inter alia, include the following
terms and conditions (as applicable) in addition to such other conditions as
may be specified:
(a) Quantity, description and value of goods;
(b) Actual User condition;
(c) Export obligation;
(d) Minimum Value Addition to be achieved;
(e) Minimum export/ import price; and
(f) Bank Guarantee/ Legal Undertaking/ Bond with Customs Authority/ RA.
9. Authorization not a right: No person may claim an Authorization as a
right and DGFT or RA shall have power to refuse to grant or renew the same in
accordance with provisions of FT(D&R) Act, rules made there under and FTP.
10. Penalty: If an authorization holder violates any condition of such
authorization or fails to fulfill export obligation, he shall be liable for action in
accordance with FT (D&R) Act, the Rules and Orders made there under, FTP
and any other law for time being in force.

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11. State Trading Enterprises (STEs): STEs are governmental and non-
governmental enterprises, including marketing boards, which deal with goods for
export and/or import. Any goods, import or export of which is governed through
exclusive or special privileges granted to State Trading Enterprises [STE(s)], may
be imported or exported by STE(s) as per conditions specified in ITC(HS). DGFT
may, however, grant an authorization to any other person to import or export any
of these goods. Some items should be imported or exported only through State
Trading Enterprises.
12. Importer-Exporter Code (IEC): It is a unique 10 digit code issued by
DGFT to a person. IEC is mandatory to export any goods out of India or to
import any goods into India unless specifically exempt. Permanent Account
Number (PAN) is pre-requisite for grant of an IEC. Only one IEC can be issued
against a single PAN.
DGFT has decided to use income tax PAN as IEC number i.e., IEC will be
issued by DGFT with the difference that it will be alpha numeric (instead
of 10 digit numeric at present) and will be same as PAN of an entity.
With the introduction of GST, GSTIN would be used for purposes of
(i) credit flow of IGST on import of goods, and
(ii) refund or rebate of IGST related to export of goods.
In view of this, it has been decided that importer/exporter would need to
declare only GSTIN (wherever registered with GSTN) at the time of import
and export of goods. For residuary categories, UIN issued by GSTN and
authenticated by DGFT will be used. For others, common number will be
notified by DGFT.
An application for IEC /modification in IEC to be made only electronically by
applicants through digital signature (Class-II or Class-III). Further, only the
following are required to be uploaded/submitted along with the application
for IEC:
(a) Digital photograph of the signatory applicant;
(b) Copy of the PAN card of the business entity in whose name Import/Export
would be done (Applicant individual in case of Proprietorship firms);
(c) Cancelled cheque bearing entity’s pre-printed name or Bank certificate in
prescribed format ANF-2A(I).

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In case of STPI/ EHTP/ BTP units, the Regional Offices of the DGFT having
jurisdiction over the district in which the Registered/ Head Office of the STPI
unit is located shall issue or amend the IECs.
13. Trade with neighbouring countries: DGFT may issue instructions or
frame schemes as may be required to promote trade and strengthen economic
ties with neighbouring countries.
14. Transit facility: Transit of goods through India from/ or to countries
adjacent to India shall be regulated in accordance with bilateral treaties
between India and those countries and will be subject to such restrictions as
may be specified by DGFT in accordance with international conventions.
15. Mandatory documents for export/import of goods from/into India:
(a) Mandatory documents required for export of goods from India:
1. Bill of Lading/Airway Bill/Lorry Receipt/Railway Receipt/Postal Receipt
2. Commercial Invoice cum Packing List*
3. Shipping Bill/Bill of Export
(b) Mandatory documents required for import of goods into India
1. Bill of Lading/Airway Bill/Lorry Receipt/Railway Receipt/Postal Receipt
2. Commercial Invoice cum Packing List*
3. Bill of Entry
*Note: As per CBIC Circular No. 01/15-Customs dated 12/01/2015, separate
Commercial Invoice and Packing List would also be accepted.

B. PROVISIONS RELATING TO IMPORT OF GOODS

1. Actual user condition: Goods which are importable without any
restriction, may be imported by any person. However, if such imports require
an Authorization, actual user alone may import such goods unless actual user
condition is specifically dispensed with by DGFT.
2. Second hand goods: Import of second hand capital goods, including
refurbished/ re-conditioned spares shall be allowed freely. However, second
hand personal computers/ laptops, photocopier machines, air conditioners,
diesel generating sets will only be allowed against authorisation. Second hand
(used) goods, [except second hand capital goods], shall be restricted for
imports and may be imported only against Authorization.

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3. Removal of scrap/ waste from SEZ: Any waste or scrap or remnant

including any form of metallic waste & scrap generated during manufacturing
or processing activities of an SEZ Unit/ Developer/ Co-developer shall be
allowed to be disposed in DTA (Domestic Tariff Area) freely, subject to
payment of applicable customs duty.
4. Import of gifts and samples: Import of gifts shall be permitted where
such goods are otherwise freely importable under ITC(HS). In other cases, a
Customs Clearance Permit (CCP) shall be required from DGFT. Further, import
of samples shall be governed by the prescribed procedures. Authorisation for
import of samples is required only in case of vegetable seeds, bees and new
drugs. Samples of tea upto ` 2,000 (CIF) per consignment will be allowed
without authorization. Samples upto ` 3,00,000 can be imported by all
exporters without duty.
5. Passenger Baggage:
(a) Bonafide household goods and personal effects may be imported as part of
passenger baggage as per limits, terms and conditions thereof in the
Baggage Rules, 1998.
(b) Samples of such items that are otherwise freely importable under FTP may
also be imported as part of passenger baggage without an Authorization.
(c) Exporters coming from abroad are also allowed to import drawings,
patterns, labels, price tags, buttons, belts, trimming and embellishments
required for export, as part of their passenger baggage without an
Authorization.
Note: Baggage provisions have been discussed in detail in Chapter-5- Importation,
Exportation and Transportation of Goods.
6. Re-import of goods repaired abroad: Capital goods, equipments,
components, parts and accessories, whether imported or indigenous, except
those restricted under ITC(HS) may be sent abroad for repairs, testing, quality
improvement or upgradation or standardization of technology and re-
imported without an Authorization.
7. Import of goods used in projects abroad: After completion of projects
abroad, project contractors may import, without an Authorization, goods
including capital goods used in the project provided they have been used for
at least one year.
8. Sale on high seas: Sale of goods on high seas for import into India may
be made subject to FTP or any other law in force.

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9. Import under lease financing: It is freely permitted. Permission of

Regional Authority is not required for import of capital goods under lease
financing. However, RBI approval is required in some cases.
10. Clearance of goods from customs: Goods already imported/ shipped/
arrived, in advance, but not cleared from customs may also be cleared against
an Authorization issued subsequently. However, this facility will not be
available to restricted items or items traded through STEs.
11. Execution of BG/ LUT: Whenever goods are imported duty free or
otherwise specifically stated, importer shall execute prescribed LUT (Letter of
Undertaking)/ BG (Bank Guarantee)/ Bond with Customs Authority before
clearance of goods. In case of indigenous sourcing, Authorization holder shall
furnish LUT/ BG/ Bond to RA concerned before sourcing material from
indigenous supplier/ nominated agency as per the prescribed procedures.
12. Private/ public bonded warehouses for imports: Private/ public
bonded warehouses may be set up in DTA (Domestic Tariff Area) as per terms
and conditions of notification issued by DoR. Any person may import goods,
except prohibited items, arms and ammunition, hazardous waste and
chemicals and warehouse them in such bonded warehouses. Such goods may
be cleared for home consumption against authorisation, whenever required.
Customs duty as applicable shall be paid at the time of clearance of such
goods. If such goods are not cleared for home consumption within a period of
one year or such extended period as the custom authorities may permit,
importer of such goods shall re-export the goods.

C. PROVISIONS RELATING TO EXPORT OF GOODS

1. Free exports: All goods may be exported without any restriction except
to the extent that such export is regulated by ITC(HS) or any other provision of
FTP or any other law for the time being in force. DGFT may however, specify
through a public notice such terms and conditions according to which any
goods, not included in ITC(HS), may be exported without an Authorization.
2. Export of samples: Export of samples and free of charge goods shall be
governed by prescribed procedures. Export of bona fide trade and technical
samples of freely exportable item shall be allowed without any limit. In case of
restricted items, application should be made to DGFT. Such samples can be
exported as part of passenger baggage without an Authorisation.
3. Export of passenger baggage: Bonafide personal baggage may be
exported either along with passenger or, if unaccompanied, within one year
before or after passenger’s departure from India. However, items mentioned as

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restricted in ITC(HS) shall require an Authorization. Government of India

officials proceeding abroad on official postings shall, however, be permitted to
carry alongwith their personal baggage, food items (free, restricted or
prohibited) strictly for their personal consumption. Samples of such items that
are otherwise freely exportable under FTP may also be exported as part of
passenger baggage without an Authorisation.
4. Export of gifts: Goods, including edible items, of value not exceeding
`5,00,000 in a licensing year, may be exported as a gift. However, items
mentioned as restricted for exports in ITC(HS) shall not be exported as a gift,
without an Authorization. For export of samples/gifts/ spares/ replacement
goods (other than SCOMET items) in excess of ceiling/period, application can
be made to DGFT in form ANF-2Q.
5. Export of spares: Warranty spares (whether indigenous or imported) of
plant, equipment, machinery, automobiles or any other goods, [except those
restricted under ITC(HS)] may be exported along with main equipment or
subsequently, but within contracted warranty period of such goods subject to
approval of RBI.
6. Third party exports: Third-party exports means exports made by an
exporter or manufacturer on behalf of another exporter(s). In such cases,
export documents such as shipping bills shall indicate name of both
manufacturing exporter/manufacturer and third party exporter(s). BRC, GR
declaration, export order and invoice should be in the name of third party
exporter. Such third party exports shall be allowed under FTP.
Illustration
CD Corporation, a merchant exporter, procured order of goods from a customer
in USA. It approached AB Corporation, a manufacturer, for execution of the said
order. The shipping bills relating to the consignment bear the name of CD
Corporation. Bank Realization Certificate, export order and invoice are also in
the name of CD Corporation. Comment whether AB Corporation would be
deemed as the exporter under FTP.
Answer
The given scenario is a case of third-party exports.
Third-party exports means exports made by an exporter or manufacturer on
behalf of another exporter(s). The conditions for being allowed as third-party
exports under FTP are:

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(i) Export documents such as shipping bills shall indicate name of both
manufacturing exporter/manufacturer and third party exporter(s).
(ii) BRC, export order and invoice should be in the name of third party exporter.
In the above case, though BRC, export order and invoice are in the name of CD
Corporation (third party exporter), the shipping bill does not have the name of
AB Corporation (manufacturer). Therefore, AB Corporation will not be treated
as the exporter in this case 1.
7. Export of imported goods: Goods imported, in accordance with FTP,
may be exported in same or substantially the same form without an
Authorization, provided that an item to be imported or exported is not
restricted for import or export in ITC(HS).
Exports of such goods imported against payment in freely convertible currency
would be permitted provided export proceeds are realized in freely convertible
currency. However, export of such goods to notified countries will be
permitted in Indian rupees subject to at least 15% value addition. Such exports
shall not be eligible for any export incentives.
8. Export of replacement goods: Goods or parts thereof on being
exported and found defective/ damaged may be replaced free of charge by
the exporter and such goods shall be allowed clearance by customs
authorities, provided that replacement goods are not mentioned as restricted
items for exports in ITC(HS).
9. Export of repaired goods: Goods or parts exported and found defective,
damaged or otherwise unfit for use may be imported for repair and
subsequent re-export. Such goods shall be allowed clearance without an
Authorization and in accordance with customs notification.
However, re-export of such defective parts/spares by the Companies/firms and
Original Equipment Manufacturers shall not be mandatory if they are imported
exclusively for undertaking root cause analysis, testing and evaluation
purpose.
10. Private Bonded Warehouses for exports: Private bonded warehouses,
which are set up exclusively for exports shall be entitled to procure goods
from domestic manufacturers without payment of duty. Supplies made by a
domestic supplier to such notified warehouses shall be treated as physical
exports provided payments are made in free foreign exchange.

1
However, AB Corporation can supply goods without payment of GST under bond of
Merchant Exporter.

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 FOREIGN TRADE POLICY 15.17

11. Denomination of export contracts: All export contracts and invoices

shall be denominated either in freely convertible currency or Indian rupees but
export proceeds shall be realised in freely convertible currency. However,
export proceeds against specific exports may also be realized in rupees,
provided it is through a freely convertible Vostro account of a non resident
bank situated in any country other than a member country of Asian Clearing
Union (ACU) or Nepal or Bhutan. Additionally, rupee payment through Vostro
account must be against payment in free foreign currency by buyer in his non-
resident bank account.
Free foreign exchange remitted by buyer to his non-resident bank (after
deducting the bank service charges) on account of this transaction would be
taken as export realization under export promotion schemes of FTP. Contracts
for which payments are received through ACU shall be denominated in ACU
Dollar. Central Government may relax provisions in this regard in appropriate
cases. Export contracts and invoices can be denominated in Indian rupees
against EXIM Bank/ Government of India line of credit.
12. Non-realisation of export proceeds: If an exporter fails to realise
export proceeds within time specified by RBI, he shall, without prejudice to any
liability or penalty under any law in force, be liable to action in accordance
with provisions of FT(D&R) Act, rules and orders made thereunder and
provisions of FTP.
13. Free movement of export goods: Consignments of items meant for
exports shall not be withheld/ delayed for any reason by any agency of
Central/ State Government. In case of any doubt, authorities concerned may
ask for an undertaking from exporter and release such consignment.
14. No seizure of export related stock: No seizure of stock shall be made
by any agency so as to disrupt manufacturing activity and delivery schedule of
exports. In exceptional cases, concerned agency may seize the stock on basis
of prima facie evidence of serious irregularity. However, such seizure should be
lifted within 7 days unless the irregularities are substantiated.

D. PERSONAL HEARING BY DGFT FOR GRIEVANCE

REDRESSAL:
Government is committed to easy and speedy redressal of grievances from
Trade and Industry. As a last resort to redress grievances of Foreign Trade
players, DGFT may provide an opportunity for Personal hearing before Policy
Relaxation Committee (PRC) subject to fulfillment of certain conditions.

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 15.18 CUSTOMS & FTP

Export Promotion Councils: Basic objective of Export Promotion Councils

(EPCs) is to promote and develop Indian exports. Each Council is responsible
for promotion of a particular group of products, projects and services.
Registration-cum-Membership Certificate (RCMC): Any person, applying for
an Authorization to import/ export, or any other benefit or concession under
FTP shall be required to furnish on DGFT’s website in the Importer Exporter
profile, RCMC granted by competent authority. For instance, Certificate of
Registration as Exporter of Spices (CRES) issued by Spices Board shall be
treated as RCMC for the purposes under this Policy.

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 FOREIGN TRADE POLICY 15.19

UNIT – II : BASIC CONCEPTS RELATING TO EXPORT

PROMOTION SCHEMES UNDER FTP

Export promotion schemes

Exports of a country play an important role in the economy. Government
always endeavors to encourage exports by introducing various export
promotion schemes. Consequently, there are various promotional measures
under FTP and other schemes operated under Ministry of Commerce through
various Export Promotion Councils.
As per WTO, export incentives cannot be given to the exporters as such
otherwise there would be no free competition. Hence, all the export promotion
schemes in India are directed towards ensuring that the inputs as well as final
products are made tax-free.

1 DUTY EXEMPTION & REMISSION SCHEMES

The Duty Exemption and Remission Schemes are the most important schemes
in the Foreign Trade Policy, because they are most widely utilized and are
largely compatible with the provisions of the Agreement on Subsidies and
Countervailing Measures (ASCM) of the WTO.

Duty Duty
exemption remission
schemes Advance schemes
Duty Drawback
Authorization
(DBK) Scheme
Scheme

Duty Free
Duty remission
Import
schemes under
Authorization
GST Law
Scheme (DFIA)

(A) Duty exemption schemes: Under duty exemption schemes, exporter can
import the inputs duty free for export production. The two duty exemption
schemes are as follows:-
1. Advance Authorization Scheme
2. Duty Free Import Authorization Scheme (DFIA)

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(B) Duty remission schemes: Under duty remission scheme, duty on inputs
and input services used in the export product is either replenished or
remitted. Duty Drawback (DBK) Scheme is designed for this purpose. Duty
remission is also granted under GST Law.

Duty exemption schemes

1. ADVANCE AUTHORIZATION SCHEME

♦ Under advance authorization scheme, INPUTS which are used in the
export product can be imported without payment of customs duty 2.
IGST and GST Compensation Cess have been exempted upto
01.10.2018 on imports under Advance Authorisation for physical
exports.
♦ The goods imported are exempt from basic customs duty, additional
customs duty, education cess, anti-dumping duty and safeguard duty,
unless otherwise specified. The conditions for duty free imports
against physical exports are provided in notification issued under the
Customs law.
♦ Advance Authorisation shall be valid for 12 months from the date of
issue of such Authorisation. Advance Authorisation for Deemed Export
shall be co-terminus with contracted duration of project execution or
12 months from the date of issue of Authorisation, whichever is more.
♦ Period of fulfillment of export obligation under Advance Authorization
is 18 months from the date of issue of Authorization or as notified by
DGFT.
♦ Exports proceeds shall be realized in freely convertible currency except
otherwise specified.
(i) Basis of issuance of Advance Authorisation: Advance Authorisation is
issued for inputs in relation to resultant product, on the following basis:
(A) As per SION💡💡 notified (available in Hand Book of Procedures)
or

2
Supplies of goods by a registered person against advance authorization are ‘deemed
exports’ under GST - Notification No. 48/2017 CT dated 18-10-2017.

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 FOREIGN TRADE POLICY 15.21

(B) On the basis of self declaration Regional Authority may also issue
Advance Authorisation where there is no SION/valid Ad hoc
Norms for an export product or where SION / Ad hoc norms have
been notified / published but exporter intends to use additional
inputs in the manufacturing process, based on self-declaration by
applicant. Wastage so claimed shall be subject to wastage norms
as decided by Norms Committee. The applicant shall submit an
undertaking to abide by decision of Norms Committee.
or
(C) Applicant specific prior fixation of norm by the Norms Committee.
or
(D) On the basis of Self Ratification Scheme. Where there is no
SION/valid Adhoc Norms for an export product and where SION
has been notified but exporter intends to use additional inputs in
the manufacturing process, eligible exporter can apply for an
Advance Authorisation under this scheme on self-declaration and
self-ratification basis. RA may issue Advance Authorisations and
such cases need not be referred to Norms Committees for
ratification of norms. An exporter (manufacturer or merchant
exporter) who holds AEO (Authorised Economic Operator)
Certificate under Common Accreditation Programme of CBIC is
eligible to opt for the scheme.
💡💡
Standard Input Output Norms (SION) are standard norms which define
the amount of input(s) required to manufacture unit of output for export
purpose. SION is notified by DGFT on basis of recommendation of Norms
Committee.
(ii) Items which can be imported duty free against advance authorization:
♦ Inputs, which are physically incorporated in export product (making
normal allowance for wastage).
♦ Fuel, oil, catalysts which are consumed/utilised to obtain export
product.
♦ Mandatory spares which are required to be exported/supplied with
resultant product permitted upto 10% of CIF value of Authorization.
♦ Specified spices only when used for activities like crushing/ grinding

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/sterilization/ manufacture of oils or oleoresins and not for simply

cleaning, grading, re-packing etc.
However, items reserved for imports by STEs cannot be imported against
advance authorization.
(iii) Actual user condition for Advance Authorisation: Advance Authorization
and/ or materials imported thereunder will be with actual user condition. It
will not be transferable even after completion of export obligation.
However, Authorization holder will have an option to dispose off product
manufactured out of duty free inputs in DTA once export obligation is
completed.
Waste/scrap arising out of manufacturing process, as allowed, can be
disposed off on payment of applicable duty even before fulfillment of
export obligation.
(iv) Who are eligible for advance authorization: Advance Authorization can
be issued either to a manufacturer exporter or merchant exporter tied to
supporting manufacturer(s).
Such Authorization can also be issued for:
(1) Physical exports
(2) Intermediate supply
(3) Supplies made to specified categories of deemed exports
(4) Supply of ‘stores’ on board of foreign going vessel/aircraft provided
there is specific SION in respect of items supplied.
(v) Domestic sourcing of inputs: Holder of advance authorization has an
option to procure the materials/ inputs from indigenous manufacturer/STE
in lieu of direct import against Advance Release Order (ARO)/ Invalidation
letter/ Back to Back Inland Letter of Credit. However, Advance Authorisation
holder may obtain supplies from EOU/EHTP/BTP/STP/SEZ units, without
obtaining ARO or Invalidation letter.
(vi) Conditions for redeeming authorisation: It is necessary to establish that
inputs actually used in manufacture of the export product should only be
imported under the authorization and inputs actually imported must be
used in the export product, for redeeming the Authorisation. The
name/description of the input in the Authorisation must match exactly with
the name/description endorsed in the shipping bill.

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 FOREIGN TRADE POLICY 15.23

Further, quantity of input to be allowed under Advance Authorisation shall

be in proportion to the quantity of input actually used/ consumed in
production. If goods are imported against advance authorization but export
obligation is not fulfilled, duty and interest is payable.
Aforesaid provisions will also be applicable for supplies to SEZs and supplies
made under deemed exports.
(vii) Annual Advance authorization: Advance Authorization can be issued for
annual requirement also.
• Exporters having past export performance (in at least preceding two
financial years) shall be entitled for Advance Authorization for Annual
Requirement.
• Entitlement in terms of CIF value of imports shall be upto 300% of the
FOB value of physical export and/ or FOR value of deemed export in
preceding financial year or ` 1 crore, whichever is higher.
• Authorisation for Annual Requirement shall be issued only where
SIONs or valid Ad hoc norms exists on the date of issue of
Authorisation. It is not available on self-declaration basis.
(viii) Value addition (VA): will be calculated as follows (except for gem and
jewellery sector)–
VA = [(A-B) x 100]/B
A = FOB value of export realised/FOR value of supply received.
B = CIF value of inputs covered by authorisation plus any other imported
materials used on which benefit of duty drawback (DBK) is claimed or
intended to be claimed.
If some items are supplied free of cost by foreign buyer, its notional value
will be added in the CIF value of import and FOB value of export for
purpose of calculating value addition. Exports to SEZ Developers/ Co-
developers, irrespective of currency of realization, would also be covered.
Minimum value addition required to be achieved under Advance
Authorization is 15%, except for physical exports for which payments are
not received in freely convertible currency and some other specified export
products. For tea, minimum value addition required shall be 50%.

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(ix) Admissibility of drawback: Drawback as per rate determined and fixed by

Customs authority shall be available for duty paid imported or indigenous
inputs used in the export product.
Illustration
Answer the following questions with reference to the provisions of Foreign Trade
Policy:
(i) FIintex Manufacturers manufactures goods by using imported inputs and
supplies the same under Aid Programme of the United Nations. The payment
for such supply is received in free foreign exchange. Can FIintex
Manufacturers seek Advance Authorization for the supplies made by it?
(ii) XYZ Ltd. has imported inputs without payment of duty under Advance
Authorization. The CIF value of such inputs is ` 10,00,000. The inputs are
processed and the final product is exported. The exports made by XYZ Ltd.
are subject to general rate of value addition prescribed under Advance
Authorization Scheme. No other input is being used by XYZ Ltd. in the
processing. What should be the minimum FOB value of the exports made by
the XYZ Ltd. as per the provisions of Advance Authorization?
(iii) ‘A’ has used some duty paid inputs in its export products. However, for the
rest of the inputs, he wants to apply for the Advance Authorization. Can he
do so? Explain.
Answer
(i) Supply to goods to UN or international organisations for their official use or
supplied to projects financed by them are ‘deemed exports’. Advance
Authorization can be issued for supplies made to such ‘deemed exports’.
Therefore, Flintex Manufacturers can seek an Advance Authorization for the
supplies made by it.
(ii) Advance Authorization necessitates exports with a minimum of 15% value
addition (VA).
VA = [(A – B)/B x 100]
A = FOB value of export realized, B = CIF value of inputs covered by
authorization.
Therefore, the minimum FOB value of the exports made by XYZ Ltd. should
be ` 11,50,000.

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 FOREIGN TRADE POLICY 15.25

(iii) Yes, ‘A’ can do so. In case of part duty free and part duty paid imports, both
Advance Authorization and drawback will be available. Drawback can be
obtained for any duty paid material, whether imported or indigenous, used
in goods exported, as per drawback rate fixed by DoR, Ministry of Finance
(Directorate of Drawback). Advance Authorization can be used for
importing duty free material. Drawback allowed must be mentioned in the
application for Advance Authorization. In such case, All Industry Brand
Rates are not applicable. The manufacturer has to get specific brand rate
fixed from Commissioner for these exported goods.

2. DUTY FREE IMPORT AUTHORIZATION (DFIA) SCHEME

♦ Provisions applicable to Advanced Authorisation are broadly applicable in
case of DFIA. However, these Authorizations shall be issued only for
products for which Standard Input and Output Norms (SION) have been
notified. Duty Free Import Authorisation (DFIA) is issued to allow duty free
import of inputs. In addition, import of oil and catalyst which is consumed /
utilised in the process of production of export product, may also be allowed.
♦ The goods imported are exempt ONLY from basic customs duty.
♦ DFIA shall be exempted only from payment of Basic Customs Duty (BCD).
IGST will be payable on imports.
♦ DFIA shall be issued on post export basis for products for which SION have
been notified. Separate DFIA shall be issued for each SION and each port.
♦ The applicant shall file an online application to RA concerned before
starting exports under DFIA. Export shall be completed within 12 months
from the date of online filing of application and generation of file number.
While doing export/supply, applicant shall indicate file number on the
export documents.
♦ After completion of exports and realization of export proceeds, request for
issuance of transferable DFIA may be made to concerned RA within a period
of:
(a) 12 months from the date of export
or
(b) 6 months (or additional time allowed by RBI for realization) from the
date of realization of export proceeds,
whichever is later.

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♦ RA shall issue transferable DFIA with a validity of 12 months from the

date of issue.
♦ Exports proceeds shall be realized in freely convertible currency except
otherwise specified.
(i) No DFIA for ‘Actual User’ condition inputs: No DFIA shall be issued for an
export product where SION prescribes ‘Actual User’ condition for any input.
(ii) Domestic sourcing of inputs: Holder of DFIA has an option to procure the
materials/ inputs from indigenous manufacturer/STE in lieu of direct import
against Advance Release Order (ARO)/ Invalidation letter/ Back to Back
Inland Letter of Credit. DFIA holder may obtain supplies from
EOU/EHTP/BTP/STP/SEZ units, without obtaining ARO or Invalidation letter.
(iii) Conditions for redeeming authorisation: It is necessary to establish that
inputs actually used in manufacture of the export product should only be
imported under the authorization and inputs actually imported must be
used in the export product, for redeeming the DFIA. The name/description
of the input in the DFIA must match exactly with the name/description
endorsed in the shipping bill.
Further, quantity of input to be allowed under DFIA shall be in proportion to
the quantity of input actually used/ consumed in production.
If goods are imported against advance authorization but export obligation
is not fulfilled, duty and interest is payable.
Aforesaid provisions will also be applicable for supplies to SEZs and supplies
made under deemed exports.
(iv) Value addition (VA): will be calculated as follows (except for gem and
jewellery sector)–
VA = [(A-B) x 100]/B
A = FOB value of export realised/FOR value of supply received.
B = CIF value of inputs covered by authorisation plus any other imported
materials used on which benefit of duty drawback (DBK) is claimed or
intended to be claimed.
If some items are supplied free of cost by foreign buyer, its notional value
will be added in the CIF value of import and FOB value of export for
purpose of calculating value addition. Exports to SEZ Developers/ Co-
developers, irrespective of currency of realization, would also be covered.

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 FOREIGN TRADE POLICY 15.27

Minimum value addition required to be achieved under DFIA is 20%, except

for physical exports for which payments are not received in freely
convertible currency.
(v) Admissibility of drawback: Drawback as per rate determined and fixed by
Customs authority shall be available for duty paid imported or indigenous
inputs used in the export product.
Illustration
Discuss the similarities and differences between Advance Authorization and
DFIA (Duty Free Import Authorization) schemes.
Answer
In both DFIA and Advance Authorization schemes, import of inputs, oil and
catalyst which are required for export products are permitted without payment
of customs duty.
The differences between DFIA and Advance Authorisation schemes are as
follows -
(i) ‘Advance Authorisation’ is not transferable. DFIA is transferable after export
obligation is fulfilled.
(ii) Advance Authorisation scheme requires 15% value addition, while in case of
DFIA, minimum 20% value addition is required.
(iii) Advance Authorisation scheme is available to gem and jewellery sector but
not DFIA.
(iv) DFIA cannot be issued where SION (Standard Input Output Norms)
prescribes actual user condition [as the material is transferable after
fulfilment of export obligation].
(v) Advance Authorisation can be issued even if SION for that product is not
fixed. DFIA can be issued only if SION has been fixed for that product to be
exported.
(vi) IGST has been exempted on imports under Advance Authorisation
scheme upto 01-10-2018, but there is no such exemption available if
imports are under DFIA scheme

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Duty remission schemes

1. DUTY DRAWBACK (DBK) SCHEME
 Various schemes like EOU, SEZ, DFIA, Advance Authorisation,
manufacture under bond etc. are available to obtain inputs without
payment of customs duty or obtain refund of duty paid on inputs.
 Suppliers who are unable to avail any of these schemes can avail ‘duty
drawback’. Here, the customs duty paid on inputs is given back to the
exporter of finished product by way of ‘duty drawback’. Section 75 of
Customs Act, 1962 provide for drawback on materials used in
manufacture or processing of export product.
 It may be noted that duty drawback under section 75 is granted when
imported materials are used in the manufacture of goods which are
then exported, while duty drawback under section 74 is applicable
when imported goods are re-exported as it is, and article is easily
identifiable.
 As per rule 2(a) of the Customs and Central Excise Duties
Drawback Rules, 2017, drawback in relation to any goods
manufactured in India and exported, means the rebate of duty
excluding IGST and Compensation Cess, chargeable on any
imported materials or excisable materials used in the
manufacture of such goods.
 It is important to note that the duty drawback is only of customs
duty 3. There is no duty drawback in respect of GST.
2. DUTY REMISSION SCHEMES IN GST LAW
Duty remission/exemption is also granted under GST Law.

2. REWARD SCHEMES – MEIS, SEIS AND

STATUS HOLDERS
Reward schemes are the schemes which entitle the exporters to duty credit
scrips subject to various conditions. These scrips can be used for payment of
customs duties on import of inputs/goods including notified capital goods.

3
This scheme has been discussed in detail in Chapter-7-Duty Drawback

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These scrips are transferable, i.e. they can be sold in market, if the holder of
duty credit scrip does not intend to import goods against the scrips. Goods
imported under the scrip are also freely transferable.
Following are two schemes for exports of merchandise and services:
(i) Merchandise Exports from India Scheme (MEIS)
(ii) Service Exports from India Scheme (SEIS)

A MERCHANDISE EXPORTS FROM INDIA SCHEME (MEIS)

The objective of MEIS scheme is to promote the manufacture and export of
notified goods/ products.
(i) Reward under the scheme: Under MEIS, exports of notified
goods/products to notified markets shall be eligible for reward at the
specified rate(s). Unless otherwise specified, the basis of calculation of
reward would be:
(i) on realised FOB value of exports in free foreign exchange,
or
(ii) on FOB value of exports as given in the Shipping Bills in free foreign
exchange,
whichever is less.
(ii) Ineligible categories under MEIS: Some exports categories/sectors
ineligible for Duty Credit Scrip entitlement under MEIS are listed below:
 Supplies made from DTA units to SEZ units
 Exports through trans-shipment, i.e., exports that are originating
in third country but trans-shipped through India
 Deemed Exports
 SEZ/EOU/EHTP/BPT/FTWZ products exported through DTA units
 Export products which are subject to Minimum export price or
export duty
 Exports made by units in FTWZ.
(iii) Export of goods through courier/foreign post offices using e-
commerce*: Exports of handicraft items, handloom products,
books/periodicals, leather footwear, toys and tailor made fashion garments

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through courier or foreign post office using e-commerce of FOB value upto
` 25,000 per consignment shall be entitled for rewards under MEIS.
*E-commerce means buying and selling of goods and services, including
digital products, conducted over digital and electronic network. For the
purposes of Merchandise Exports from India Scheme (MEIS), e-commerce
shall mean the export of goods hosted on a website accessible through the
internet to a purchaser. While the dispatch of goods shall be made through
courier or postal mode, as specified under MEIS, the payment for goods
purchased on e-commerce platform shall be done through international
credit/debit cards and as per RBI Circular (RBI/2015-16/185) as amended
from time to time.

B SERVICE EXPORTS FROM INDIA SCHEME (SEIS)

The objective of SEIS scheme is to encourage export of notified services from
India. The scheme applies to export of services made on or after 01.04.2015.
(i) Eligible service providers: A service provider (with active IEC at the time of
rendering services) located in India, providing notified services 4 rendered in
the specified manner* shall be eligible for reward at the notified rate(s) on
net foreign exchange earned provided the minimum net free foreign
exchange earnings of such service provider in year of rendering service is:

individual service
providers and sole
proprietorship • US $ 10,000

other service
providers
• US $ 15,000
*Specified manner is supply of a ‘service’ from India to any other country;
(Mode 1- Cross border trade) and supply of a ‘service’ from India to service
consumer(s) of any other country in India; (Mode 2-Consumption abroad).

4
The list of services /rates is subject to review with effect from 01.04.2018. It is to
be notified separately.

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1. Net Foreign exchange earnings

= Gross Earnings of Foreign Exchange Minus Total expenses/
payment/ remittances of Foreign Exchange by the IEC holder, relating
to service sector in the financial year.
2. ‘Services’ include all tradable services covered under General
Agreement on Trade in Services (GATS) and earning foreign exchange.
3. ‘Service Provider’ means a person providing:
(i) Supply of a ‘service’ from India to any other country; (Mode1-
Cross border trade)
(ii) Supply of a ‘service’ from India to service consumer(s) of any
other country in India; (Mode 2- Consumption abroad)
(iii) Supply of a ‘service’ from India through commercial presence in
any other country. (Mode 3 – Commercial Presence)
(iv) Supply of a ‘service’ from India through the presence of natural
persons in any other country (Mode 4- Presence of natural
persons).
Payment in Indian Rupees for service charges earned on specified services,
shall be treated as receipt in deemed foreign exchange as per guidelines of
Reserve Bank of India.
(ii) Ineligible categories under SEIS:
(A) Foreign exchange remittances other than those earned for rendering
of notified services would not be counted for entitlement. Thus, other
sources of foreign exchange earnings such as equity or debt
participation, donations, receipts of repayment of loans etc. and any
other inflow of foreign exchange, unrelated to rendering of service,
would be ineligible.
(B) Following shall not be taken into account for calculation of
entitlement under the scheme:

(1) Foreign Exchange remittances

A. Related to Financial Services Sector:
♦ Raising of all types of foreign currency Loans
♦ Export proceeds realization of clients
♦ Issuance of Foreign Equity through ADRs/ GDRs or other

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similar instruments
♦ Issuance of foreign currency Bonds
♦ Sale of securities and other financial instruments
♦ Other receivables not connected with services rendered
by financial institutions.
B. Earned through contract/ regular employment abroad (e.g.
labour remittances)

(2) Payments for services received from EEFC Account

(3) Foreign exchange turnover by Healthcare Institutions like equity

participation, donations etc.

(4) Foreign exchange turnover by Educational Institutions like equity

participation, donations etc.

(5) Export turnover relating to services of units operating under EOU/

EHTP/ STPI/ BTP Schemes or supplies of services made to such
units

(6) Clubbing of turnover of services rendered by EOU/ EHTP/ STPI/

BTP units with turnover of DTA Service Providers

(7) Foreign Exchange earnings for services provided by Airlines,

Shipping lines service providers plying from any foreign country X
to any foreign country Y routes not touching India at all

(8) Service providers in Telecom Sector

Common Provisions for Exports from India Schemes (MEIS and SEIS)
(i) Drawback:
Basic Custom duty paid in cash or through debit under Duty Credit scrip
shall be adjusted for Duty Drawback as per DoR rules or notifications.
Duty credit scrip shall be permitted to be utilized for payment of
customs duty in case of import of capital goods under lease financing.
(ii) Transfer of export performance: Transfer of export performance from one
IEC holder to another IEC holder shall not be permitted. Thus, a shipping bill
containing name of applicant shall be counted in export performance /

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turnover of applicant only if export proceeds from overseas are realized in

applicant’s bank account and this shall be evidenced from e - BRC / FIRC.
However, MEIS rewards can be claimed either by the supporting
manufacturer (along with disclaimer from the company / firm who has
realized the foreign exchange directly from overseas) or by the company/
firm who has realized the foreign exchange directly from overseas.
(iii) Incentives of MEIS & SEIS are available to units located in SEZs also.
Illustration
Examine whether benefit of Service Exports from India Scheme (SEIS) can be
availed with respect to notified services provided by service providers located in
India in the current financial year in the following independent cases:
(i) Net Foreign exchange earned by Mr. Aniket, a service provider, in the year of
rendering service is USD 3,000.
(ii) X and Y Brothers, a firm of service providers, has earned net foreign exchange
to the tune of USD 16,500 in the year of rendering service.
(iii) Mr. Ishaan, a service provider, has earned net foreign exchange of USD 12,000
in the year of rendering service. Out of this, USD 3,000 has been paid to
Mr. Ishaan through the credit card of the foreign client.
Note: All the above service providers have an active IEC at the time of rendering
services.
Answer
In order to be eligible for duty credit scrip entitlement under SEIS:-
(a) Service provider must be located in India.
(b) It must provide only notified services in specified manner.
(c) It must have an active IEC at the time of rendering such services for which
rewards are claimed.
(d) An individual service provider/Sole-proprietorship should have minimum
net foreign exchange earnings of USD 10,000 and a service provider other
than individual/Sole-proprietorship should have minimum NFE of USD
15,000, in the year of rendering service.
Free foreign exchange earned through International Credit Cards and other
instruments as permitted by RBI for rendering of service are also be taken into
account for computation of NFE.

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In the light of the above provisions, the cases are examined as under:
(i) Mr. Aniket is not eligible for SEIS Scheme as his net foreign exchange
earnings are less than USD 10,000 (minimum limit for individuals).
(ii) X and Y Brothers are eligible for the Scheme as their net foreign exchange
earnings exceed the limit of USD 15,000 (minimum limit for firms).
(iii) Foreign exchange earned through credit cards is counted for the purpose of
computing the limit of minimum net foreign exchange required for being
eligible to SEIS Scheme. Thus, Mr. Ishaan is eligible for SEIS Scheme.

C STATUS HOLDER
Status Holders are business leaders who have excelled in international trade
and have successfully contributed to country’s foreign trade. All exporters of
goods, services and technology having an import-export code (IEC) number
shall be eligible for recognition as a status holder. Status recognition depends
upon export performance**.
An applicant shall be categorized as status holder upon achieving export
performance during current and previous three financial years*, as indicated
below:
*However, for Gems & Jewellery Sector, the performance during the current
and previous two financial years shall be considered for recognition as status
holder.

Export Performance
Status category [FOB/ FOR (as converted) Value ( in US $
million)) ]
One Star Export House 3
Two Star Export House 25
Three Star Export House 100
Four Star Export House 500
Five Star Export House 2,000

**Points which merit consideration while computing export performance for

grant of status:
(a) Export performance will be counted on the basis of FOB value of export
earnings in free foreign currencies.

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(b) For deemed export, FOR value of exports in Indian Rupees shall be
converted in US$ at the exchange rate notified by CBIC, as applicable on 1st
April of each Financial Year.
(c) For granting status, export performance is necessary in at least 2 out of 4
years.
(d) For calculating export performance for grant of One Star Export House
Status category, exports by IEC holders under the following categories shall
be granted double weightage:
(i) Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (MSME) as defined in Micro,
Small & Medium Enterprises Development (MSMED) Act 2006
(ii) Manufacturing units having ISO/BIS
(iii) Units located in North Eastern States including Sikkim and Jammu &
Kashmir
(iv) Units located in Agri Export Zones.
(e) Export performance of one IEC holder shall not be permitted to be
transferred to another IEC holder. Hence, calculation of exports performance
based on disclaimer shall not be allowed.
(f) Exports made on re-export basis shall not be counted for recognition.
(g) Export of items under authorization, including SCOMET items, would be
included for calculation of export performance.
Privileges of Status Holders: Status holders are granted certain benefits like:
(a) Authorisation and custom clearances for both imports and exports on self-
declaration basis.
(b) Fixation of Input Output Norms (SION) on priority i.e. within 60 days by
Norms Committee.
(c) Exemption from compulsory negotiation of documents through banks. The
remittance/ receipts, however, would continue to be received through
banking channels.
(d) Exemption from furnishing of Bank Guarantee in Schemes under FTP.
(e) Two Star Export Houses and above are permitted to establish export
warehouses.

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(f) Three Star and above Export House shall be entitled to get benefit of
Accredited Clients Programme (ACP) as per the guidelines of CBIC.
(g) Status holders shall be entitled to export freely exportable items (excluding
Gems and Jewellery, Articles of Gold and precious metals) on free of
cost basis for export promotion subject to an annual limit of ` 1 crore or 2%
of average annual export realization during preceding 3 licensing years,
whichever is lower.
For export of pharma products by pharmaceutical companies, the
annual limit would be 2%** of the average annual export realisation
during preceding 3 licensing years.
**8% in case supply of vaccines and lifesaving drugs to health
programmes of international agencies such as UN, WHO-PAHO and
Government health programmes.
Illustration
Two exporters namely, Red Sky Pvt. Ltd. and Black Night Pvt. Ltd. have achieved
the status of Status Holders (One Star Export House) in the current financial
year. Both the exporters have been regularly exporting goods (other than Gems
and Jewellery) every year. What would have been the minimum export
performance of the two exporters to achieve such status?
Both the exporters want to establish export warehouses in accordance with the
applicable guidelines. What should be their export turnover to enable them to
establish export warehouses?
Answer
Status Holders are business leaders who have excelled in international trade
and have successfully contributed to country’s foreign trade. All exporters of
goods, services and technology having an import-export code (IEC) number
shall be eligible for recognition as a status holder. Status recognition depends
upon export performance**.
In order to be categorized as One Star Export House, an exporter needs to
achieve the export performance of 3 million US $ million [FOB/ FOR (as
converted)] during current and previous three financial years. Thus, export
performance of Red Sky Pvt. Ltd. and Black Night Pvt. Ltd. would have been at
least 3 million US $ million [FOB/ FOR (as converted)] during current and
previous three financial years.
Further, Two Star Export Houses and above are permitted to establish export
warehouses. Therefore, Red Sky Pvt. Ltd. and Black Night Pvt. Ltd. can establish

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export warehouses in India only if they achieve the status of Two Star Export
House and above. In order to achieve said status, export performance of the
exporters during current and previous three financial years should be as
indicated below:

Status Category Export Performance [FOB/FOR (as

converted) value on US $ million

Two Star Export House 25

Three Star Export House 100

Four Star Export House 500

Five Star Export House 2,000

3. EXPORT PROMOTION CAPITAL GOODS

SCHEME (EPCG)
 Export Promotion Capital Goods Scheme (EPCG) permits exporters to
import capital goods for pre-production, production and post-
production at zero customs duty or procure them indigenously without
paying duty in the prescribed manner. In return, exporter is under an
obligation to fulfill the export obligation.
 Capital goods imported under EPCG Authorisation for physical
exports are also exempt from IGST and Compensation Cess upto
01.10.2018.
 Import under EPCG scheme shall be subject to an export obligation
equivalent to 6 times of duties, taxes and cess saved on capital goods
to be fulfilled in 6 years reckoned from the date of issue of authorization.
Authorisation shall be valid for 18 months from the date of issue of
Authorisation.
 Import of capital goods shall be subject to ‘Actual User’ condition till
export obligation is completed. After export obligation is completed,
capital goods can be sold or transferred.
 In case integrated tax and compensation cess are paid in cash on
imports under EPCG, incidence of the said integrated tax and

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compensation cess would not be taken for computation of net duty

saved provided input tax credit is not availed.
(i) Eligible exporters: Following are eligible for EPCG scheme:
♦ Manufacturer exporters with or without supporting manufacturer(s),
♦ Merchant exporters tied to supporting manufacturer(s), and
♦ Service providers including service providers designated as Common
Service Provider (CSP) subject to prescribed conditions.
(ii) Eligible capital goods:
 Capital Goods including capital goods in CKD/SKD condition
 Computer systems and software which are a part of the Capital
Goods being imported
 Spares, moulds, dies, jigs, fixtures, tools & refractories
 Catalysts for initial charge plus one subsequent charge
 Capital goods for Project Imports notified by CBIC.
(iii) Export Obligation: Export obligation means obligation to export product(s)
covered by Authorisation/permission in terms of quantity or value or both,
as may be prescribed/specified by Regional or competent authority.
Export obligation consists of average export obligation and specific export
obligation.

Specific export obligation (Specific EO) under EPCG scheme is equivalent

to 6 times of duty saved on capital goods imported under EPCG scheme, to
be fulfilled in 6 years reckoned from Authorization issue-date. Specific EO is
over and above the Average EO.
Note: In case of direct imports, EO shall be reckoned with reference to
actual duty saved amount. In case of domestic sourcing, EO shall be
reckoned with reference to notional Customs duties saved on FOR value.
Average export obligation (Average EO) under EPCG scheme is the
average level of exports made by the applicant in the preceding 3 licensing
years for the same and similar products. It has to be achieved within the
overall EO period (including extended period unless otherwise specified).
Conditions applicable to the fulfilment of the Export Obligation (EO):
(a) EO shall be fulfilled by the authorisation holder through export of

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goods which are manufactured by him or his supporting manufacturer

/ services rendered by him, for which the EPCG authorisation has been
granted.
(b) In case of indigeneous sourcing of capital goods, specific EO shall be
25% less than the EO mentioned above, i.e. EO will be 4.5 times (75%
of 6 times) of duty saved on such goods procured.
(c) Shipments under Advance Authorisation, DFIA, Drawback scheme, or
reward schemes; would also be counted for fulfilment of EO under EPCG
Scheme.
(d) EO can also be fulfilled by the supply of Information Technology
Agreement (ITA-1) items to DTA, provided realization is in free foreign
exchange.
(e) Both physical exports as well as specified deemed exports shall also be
counted towards fulfilment of export obligation.
(iv) Incentives for early fulfillment of export obligation
In cases where Authorization holder has fulfilled 75% or more of specific
export obligation and 100% of Average Export Obligation till date, if any, in
half or less than half the original export obligation period specified,
remaining export obligation shall be condoned and the Authorization
redeemed.
(v) Post Export EPCG Duty Credit Scrip(s)
Under this scheme, capital goods are imported on full payment of
applicable duties in cash. Later, basic customs duty paid on Capital Goods
is remitted in the form of freely transferable duty credit scrip(s) [similar to
the Reward schemes discussed earlier].
Salient features of the schemes are as follows:-
♦ Specific EO shall be 85% of the applicable specific EO stipulated under
EPCG scheme. Average EO remains unchanged.
♦ Duty remission shall be in proportion to the EO fulfilled.
♦ These Duty Credit Scrip(s) can be utilized in the similar manner as the
scrips issued under reward schemes can be utilised.

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(vi) Indigenous Sourcing of Capital Goods and benefits to Domestic

Supplier
A person holding an EPCG authorisation may source capital goods from
a domestic manufacturer. Such domestic manufacturer shall be eligible
for deemed export benefits under FTP and as may be provided under
GST Rules under the category of deemed exports. Such domestic
sourcing shall also be permitted from EOUs and these supplies shall be
counted for purpose of fulfilment of positive NFE by said EOU.
Illustration
XP Pvt. Ltd., a manufacturer, wants to import capital goods in CKD condition
from a foreign country and assemble the same in India. The import of the
capital goods will be under notified Project Imports. The capital goods will be
used for pre-production processes. The final products of XP Pvt. Ltd. would be
supplied in SEZ. XP Pvt. Ltd. wishes to sell the capital goods imported by it as
soon as the production process starts.
XP Pvt. Ltd. seeks your advice whether it can avail the benefit of EPCG Scheme
for importing the intended capital goods.
Note – Base your opinion on the facts given above assuming that all other
conditions required for being eligible to the EPCG Scheme are fulfilled in the
above case.
Answer
Export Promotion Capital Goods Scheme (EPCG) permits exporters to import
capital goods at zero customs duty or procure them indigenously without
paying duty in prescribed manner.
In return, exporter is under an obligation to fulfill the export obligation.
Export obligation means obligation to export product(s) covered by
Authorisation/permission in terms of quantity or value or both, as may be
prescribed/specified by Regional or competent authority. Exports to SEZ
unit/developer/co-developer will be considered for discharge of export
obligation of EPCG Authorization, irrespective of currency.
The authorisation holder can either procure the capital goods (whether used
for pre-production, production or post-production) from global market or
domestic market. The capital goods can also be imported in CKD/ SKD to be
assembled in India.

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 FOREIGN TRADE POLICY 15.41

An EPCG Authorization can also be issued for import of capital goods under
Scheme for Project Imports notified by CBIC. Export obligation for such EPCG
Authorizations would be 6 times of duty saved.
However, import of capital goods is subject to ‘Actual User’ condition till
export obligation is completed. After export obligation is completed, capital
goods can be sold or transferred.
Therefore, based on the above discussion, XP Pvt. Ltd. can import the capital
goods under EPCG Scheme. However, it has to make sure that it does not sell
the capital goods till the export obligation is completed.

4. EOU, EHTP, STP & BTP SCHEMES

Units under Export Oriented Unit (EOU) Scheme, Electronics Hardware
Technology Park (EHTP) Scheme, Software Technology Park (STP) Scheme or
Bio-Technology Park (BTP) Scheme:
 export their entire production of goods and services (except
permissible sales in DTA), and
 can import inputs and capital goods without payment of customs
duty.
STP/EHTP/BTP schemes are similar to EOU schemes and provisions are more/
less identical. EOU scheme is administered by Ministry of Commerce and
Industry, while STP/EHTP/BTP schemes are administered by their respective
administrative ministries.
Software Technology Park (STP) is set up for development of software exports.
Electronic Hardware Technology Park (EHTP) are for export of electronics
hardware and software. STP/EHTP Scheme is administered by Ministry of
Information Technology. Bio Technology Park (BTP) is established on the
recommendation of Department of Biotechnology.
(I) ELIGIBILITY
 Such units may be set up for manufacture of goods, including repair,
re-making, reconditioning, re-engineering, rendering of services,
development of software, agriculture.
 Trading units are not covered under these schemes.
 Only projects having a minimum investment of ` 1 crore in plant &
machinery shall be considered for establishment as EOUs. However,
this shall not apply to units in EHTP/ STP/ BTP, EOUs in Handicrafts/

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Agriculture/ Floriculture/ Aquaculture/ Animal Husbandry/ Information

Technology Services, Brass Hardware and Handmade jewellery sectors.
Board of Approvals (BoA) may also allow establishment of EOUs with a
lower investment criteria.
(II) NET FOREIGN EXCHANGE EARNINGS
 EOU/ EHTP/ STP/ BTP unit must be a positive net foreign exchange
earner. However, a higher value addition is specified for some sectors.
 How to compute NFE earnings?: NFE Earnings shall be calculated
cumulatively in blocks of 5 years, starting from commencement of
production.
In case unit is not able to achieve NFE due to:
(i) prohibition/ restriction imposed on export of any product, 5 years
block period may be extended suitably by BoA.
(ii) adverse market condition or any grounds of genuine hardship having
adverse impact on functioning of the unit, 5 year block is extendable
upto 1 year.
Who monitors NFE?: Performance of EOU/ EHTP/ STP/ BTP units shall be
monitored by Units Approval Committee as per prescribed guidelines.
Which supplies to DTA can be counted for positive NFE?: Following
supplies effected from EOU/ EHTP/ STP/ BTP units to DTA (Domestic Tariff
Area) will be counted for fulfillment of positive NFE:
(a) Supplies in DTA to holders of Advance Authorisation/ Advance
Authorisation for annual requirement/ DFIA under duty exemption/
remission scheme/ EPCG scheme subject to certain exceptions.
(b) Supplies affected in DTA against foreign exchange remittance received
from overseas.
(c) Supplies to other EOU/ EHTP/ STP/ BTP/ SEZ units, provided that such goods
are permissible for procurement in terms of relevant provisions of FTP.
(d) Supplies made to bonded warehouses set up under FTP and/ or under
section 65 of Customs Act and free trade and warehousing zones,
where payment is received in foreign exchange.
(e) Supplies of goods and services to such organizations which are
entitled for duty free import of such items in terms of general
exemption notification issued by MoF.

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(f) Supplies of Information Technology Agreement (ITA-1) items and

notified zero duty telecom/ electronics items.
(g) Supplies of items like tags, labels, printed bags, stickers, belts, buttons
or hangers to DTA unit for export.
(h) Supply of LPG produced in an EOU refinery to Public Sector domestic
oil companies for being supplied to household domestic consumers at
subsidized prices under the Public Distribution System (PDS) Kerosene
and Domestic LPG Subsidy Scheme, 2002, subject to specified
conditions.
(III) ENTITLEMENTS TO UNITS UNDER EOU, EHTP, STP AND BTP SCHEMES
(a) Entitlements for supplies from DTA
• Supplies from DTA to EOU/ EHTP/ STP/ BTP units will be
regarded as “deemed exports” and DTA supplier shall be
eligible for relevant entitlements for deemed exports, besides
discharge of export obligation, if any, on the supplier. The
refund of GST paid on such supply would be available to the
supplier subject to specified conditions and documentations
under GST law.
• In addition, EOU / EHTP / STP / BTP units shall be entitled to
following:-
 Imported goods are exempt from basic customs duty.
Further, IGST and GST compensation cess is exempt
upto 01-10-2018.
 Input Tax Credit of GST paid on inputs and capital
goods.
(b) Other Entitlements
• Units will be allowed to retain 100% of its export earnings in the
EEFC account.
• Unit will not be required to furnish bank guarantee at the time
of import or going for job work in DTA, subject to fulfillment of
required conditions.
• 100% FDI investment permitted through automatic route similar
to SEZ units.

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(IV) EXPORT AND IMPORT OF GOODS

Export : Following exports are permitted:
 all kinds of goods and services except items that are prohibited in
ITC(HS),
 Special Chemicals, Organisms, Materials, Equipment and Technologies
(SCOMET) subject to fulfillment of the conditions indicated in ITC (HS).
Import : Following imports are permitted:
1. Export promotion material upto a maximum value limit of 1.5% of FOB
value of previous years exports.
2. All types of goods, including capital goods, required for its activities,
from (i) DTA, (ii) bonded warehouses in DTA/ International
exhibition held in India, subject to ‘Actual User’ condition, provided
such goods are not prohibited items of import in the ITC (HS) subject
following conditions:
(a) The imports and/ or procurement from bonded warehouse in
DTA/International exhibition held in India shall be without
payment of basic customs duty. Such imports and/ or
procurements shall be made without payment of integrated
tax and GST compensation cess upto 01.10.2018.
(b) The procurement of goods covered under GST from DTA
would be on payment of applicable GST and compensation
cess. The refund of GST paid on such supply from DTA to
EOU would be available to the supplier subject to such
conditions and documentations as specified under GST law.
Goods including capital goods (on a self-certification basis) required
for approved activity, free of cost or on loan/ lease from clients,
subject to ‘Actual User’ condition are permitted to be imported.
3. Certain specified goods from DTA for creating a central facility,
with/without payment of duty/ taxes as provided in point 2(a)
and 2(b) above.
4. Second hand capital goods, without any age limit, with/without
payment of duty/ taxes as provided in point 2(a) above.

Procurement and export of spares/ components, upto 5% of FOB value of

exports, may be allowed to same consignee/ buyer of the export article,

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subject to the condition that it shall not count for NFE and direct tax
benefits.
(V) LEASING OF CAPITAL GOODS
 An EOU/EHTP/STP/BTP unit may, on the basis of a firm contract
between parties, source capital goods from a domestic/ foreign
leasing company with/without payment of duty/ taxes as
provided in point 2(a) and 2(b) of heading (IV) above. In such a
case, EOU/EHTP /STP / BTP unit and domestic/ foreign leasing
company shall jointly file documents to enable import/
procurement of capital goods.
 An EOU/ EHTP/ STP/ BTP unit may sell capital goods and lease back
the same from a Non Banking Financial Company (NBFC) subject to
fulfillment of specified conditions.
(VI) INTER UNIT TRANSFER
 Transfer of manufactured goods from one EOU / EHTP / STP / BTP unit
to another EOU / EHTP / STP / BTP unit is allowed on payment of
applicable GST and compensation cess with prior intimation to
concerned Development Commissioners of the transferor and
transferee units as well as concerned Customs authorities, following
the prescribed procedure.
 Capital goods may be transferred or given on loan to other EOU/
EHTP/ STP/ BTP/ SEZ units, with prior intimation to concerned DC and
Customs authorities on payment of applicable GST and
compensation cess. Such transferred goods may also be returned
by the second unit to the original unit in case of rejection or for
any reason on payment of applicable GST and compensation cess.

Note: Goods supplied by one unit of EOU/ EHTP/ STP/ BTP to another
unit shall be on payment of applicable GST and compensation cess
following the prescribed procedure.
(VII) SALE OF UNUTILIZED MATERIAL
 In case an EOU/ EHTP/ STP/ BTP unit is unable to utilize goods
(including capital goods and spares that have become
obsolete/surplus) and services, imported or procured from DTA, it may
be

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 transferred to another EOU/ EHTP/ STP/ BTP/ SEZ unit; or

 disposed off in DTA with intimation to Customs authorities on
payment of applicable duties and/ or taxes and compensation
cess. Further, exemption of basic customs duties availed, if
any, on the goods, at the time of import will also be payable
and submission of import Authorisation; or
 exported.
Such transfer from EOU/ EHTP/ STP/ BTP unit to another such unit
would be treated as import for receiving unit.
 In case of capital goods, benefit of depreciation, as applicable, will be
available in case of disposal in DTA only when the unit has achieved
positive NFE taking into consideration the depreciation allowed.
 No duty shall be payable other than the applicable taxes under GST
laws in case capital goods, raw material, consumables, spares, goods
manufactured, processed or packaged, and scrap/ waste/ remnants/
rejects are destroyed within unit after intimation to Customs
authorities or destroyed outside unit with permission of Customs
authorities.
 Disposal of used packing material will be allowed on payment of duty
on transaction value.
(VIII) DTA SALE OF FINISHED PRODUCTS/ REJECTS/ WASTE/ SCRAP/
REMNANTS AND BY-PRODUCTS
Entire production of EOU/ EHTP/ STP/ BTP units must be exported.
However, the following are allowed as exceptions subject to the conditions
specified:
(1) Sale of goods in DTA:
 Units (other than gem and jewellery units) will be permitted
to sell finished goods manufactured by them which are freely
importable under FTP in DTA, subject to fulfilment of
positive NFE, on payment of applicable GST and
compensation cess along with reversal** of basic customs
duty availed as exemption, if any on the inputs utilized for
the purpose of manufacturing of such finished goods.

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**on the basis of SION published by DGFT or norms approved

by Norms Committee of DGFT (when no SION is fixed)
 No DTA sale shall be permissible in respect of, pepper &
pepper products, marble and such other notified items as
also to units engaged in only packaging. Labelling,
refrigeration, pulverilasiton etc.
 Such DTA sale shall also be subject to refund of deemed
export benefits availed by the EOU/supplier as per FTP, on
the goods used for manufacture of the goods cleared into the
DTA.
 An amount equal to Anti-Dumping duty under section 9A of
the Customs Tariff Act, 1975 leviable at the time of import,
shall be payable on the goods used for the purpose of
manufacture or processing of the goods cleared into DTA
from the unit.
(2) Services provided in DTA: For services (including software units),
sale in DTA shall also be permissible up to 50% of FOB value of
exports and/ or 50% of foreign exchange earned, where payment of
such services is received in foreign exchange.
(3) Sale of rejects in DTA: Rejects may be sold in DTA on payment of
applicable GST and compensation cess along with reversal of
basic customs duty availed as exemption on inputs on prior
intimation to Customs authorities. Sale of rejects upto 5% of FOB
value of exports shall not be subject to achievement of NFE.
(4) Sale of scrap/ waste/ remnants, arising out of production, in DTA:
Scrap/ waste/ remnants arising out of production process or in
connection therewith may be sold in DTA, as per SION notified under
Duty Exemption Scheme, on payment of applicable duties and/ or
taxes and compensation cess. Such sales of scrap/ waste/ remnants
shall not be subject to achievement of positive NFE.
Scrap/waste/remnants may also be exported.
In case scrap/ waste/ remnants are destroyed with permission of
Customs authorities, no duties/ taxes payable on same. However, the
expression “no duties/ taxes” shall not include applicable taxes
and cess under the GST laws.

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(5) Sale of by-products in DTA: By-products may also be sold in DTA

subject to achievement of positive NFE, on payment of applicable
GST and compensation cess along with reversal of basic customs
duty availed as exemption on inputs.
(6) Procurement of spares / components, up to 2% of the value of
manufactured articles, cleared into DTA, during the preceding year,
may be allowed for supply to the same consignee / buyer for the
purpose of after-sale-service. The same can be cleared in DTA on
payment of applicable GST and compensation cess along with
reversal of basic customs duty availed as exemption on inputs.
(IX) EXPORT THROUGH OTHER EXPORTERS
An EOU/ EHTP/ STP/ BTP unit may export goods manufactured/ software
developed by it through another exporter or any other EOU/ EHTP/ STP/
SEZ unit subject to specified conditions
(X) EXIT FROM EOU SCHEME
With approval of DC, an EOU may opt out of scheme. Such exit shall be
subject to payment of applicable IGST/ CGST/ SGST/ UTGST and
compensation cess, if any, and industrial policy in force. If unit has not
achieved obligations, it shall also be liable to penalty at the time of exit.
(XI) CONVERSION
Existing DTA units may also apply for conversion into an EOU/ EHTP/ STP/
BTP unit. Existing EHTP / STP units, who have applied for conversion /
merger to EOU unit and vice-versa, can avail exemptions in duties and taxes
as applicable. Applications for conversion into an EOU / EHTP / STP /
BTP unit from existing DTA units, having an investment of ` 50 crores
and above in plant and machinery or exporting ` 50 crores and above
annually, shall be placed before BOA for a decision.

5. DEEMED EXPORTS
The objective of deemed exports is to ensure that the domestic suppliers are
not in disadvantageous position vis-à-vis foreign suppliers in terms of the
fiscal concessions. The underlying theory is that foreign exchange saved must
be treated at par with foreign exchange earned by placing Indian
manufacturers at par with foreign suppliers.

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 FOREIGN TRADE POLICY 15.49

Deemed Exports for the purpose of this FTP

It refers to those transactions in which goods supplied do not leave
country, and payment for such supplies is received either in Indian rupees
or in free foreign exchange. Supply of goods as specified in FTP shall be
regarded as “Deemed Exports” provided goods are manufactured in India.
Deemed Exports for the purpose of GST
It would include only the supplies notified under section 147 of the
CGST/SGST Act, on the recommendations of the GST Council. The benefits
of GST and conditions applicable for such benefits would be as specified
by the GST Council and as per relevant rules and notification.
We will restrict our discussion to ‘Deemed exports for the purpose for FTP’
in this chapter.
Deemed exports broadly cover three areas.
a. Supplies to domestic entities who can import their requirements duty free
or at reduced rates of duty.
b. Supplies to projects/ purposes that involve international competitive
bidding.
c. Supplies to infrastructure projects of national importance.
(I) CATEGORIES OF SUPPLIES CONSIDERED AS ‘DEEMED EXPORT’

Supply by manufacturer Supply by main/sub-contractors(s)

Supply of goods against Supply of goods to projects or turnkey

Advance Authorisation/ contracts financed by multilateral or
Advance Authorisation for bilateral agencies/Funds notified by
Annual Requirement/ DFIA Department of Economic Affairs (DEA),
under International Competitive Bidding.

Supply of goods to units Supply of goods to any project where

located in EOU/ STP/BTP/EHTP import is permitted at zero customs duty
as per customs Notification No. 50/2017-
Customs dated 30.6.2017, provided
supply is made against International
Competitive Bidding.

Supply of capital goods against Supply of goods to mega power projects

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 15.50 CUSTOMS & FTP

EPCG authorisation against International Competitive Bidding

(even if customs duty on imports made
by such project is not zero). The ICB
procedures should be followed. Supplier
is eligible for benefits as specified.
International Competitive Bidding (ICB) is
not mandatory for mega power projects
if requisite quantum of power has been
tied up through tariff based competitive
bidding or if project has been awarded
through tariff based competitive bidding.

Supply to goods to UN or international

organisations for their official use or
supplied to projects financed by them.

Supply of goods to nuclear projects

through competitive bidding (need not be
international competitive bidding).

(II) BENEFITS FOR DEEMED EXPORTS

Deemed exports shall be eligible for any/ all of following benefits in respect of
manufacture and supply of goods, qualifying as deemed exports, subject to
specified terms and conditions:
a. Advance Authorisation/ Advance Authorisation for Annual requirement/
DFIA
b. Deemed Export Drawback. The refund of drawback in the form of basic
customs duty of the inputs used in manufacture and supply under the
said category shall be given on brand rate basis upon submission of
documents evidencing actual payment of basic custom duties.
(III) COMMON CONDITIONS FOR DEEMED EXPORT BENEFITS
(i) Supplies shall be made directly to entities listed in the point (I) above. Third
party supply shall not be eligible for benefits/exemption.
(ii) In all cases, supplies shall be made directly to the designated
Projects/Agencies/Units/ Advance Authorisation/ EPCG Authorisation
holder. Sub-contractors may, however, make supplies to main contractor
instead of supplying directly to designated Projects/ Agencies. Payments in

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 FOREIGN TRADE POLICY 15.51

such cases shall be made to sub-contractor by main-contractor and not by

project Authority.
(iii) Supply of domestically manufactured goods by an Indian Sub-contractor to
any Indian or foreign main contractor, directly at the designated project’s/
Agency’s site, shall also be eligible for deemed export benefit provided
name of sub-contractor is indicated either originally or subsequently (but
before the date of supply of such goods) in the main contract. In such cases
payment shall be made directly to sub-contractor by the Project Authority.

6. PENALTIES
In case any exporter or importer in the country violates any provision of the
Foreign Trade Policy or for that matter any other law in force, like GST, Central
Excise or Customs or Foreign Exchange, his IEC number can be cancelled by
the office of DGFT and thereupon that exporter or importer would not be able
to transact any business in export or import. The premises where any violation
of the provisions of FTP has taken place or is expected to take place can be
searched and the suspicious material seized.
Violations would cover situations when import or export has been made by
unauthorized persons who are not legally allowed to carry out import or
export or when any person carries out or admits to carry out any import or
export in contravention of the basic FTP.

7. GLOSSARY (ACRONYMS)
Acronym Explanation
AA Advance Authorisation
ACC Assistant Commissioner of Customs
ANF Aayaat Niryaat Form
BG Bank Guarantee
BIFR Board of Industrial and Financial Reconstruction
BoA Board of Approval
BRC Bank Realisation Certificate
BTP Biotechnology Park
CBIC Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs

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 15.52 CUSTOMS & FTP

CCP Customs Clearance Permit

CEA Central Excise Authority
CEC Chartered Engineer Certificate
CIF Cost, Insurance & Freight
CVD Countervailing Duty
DC Development Commissioner
DFIA Duty Free Import Authorisation
DGCI&S Director General, Commercial Intelligence & Statistics.
DGFT Director General of Foreign Trade
DoR Department of Revenue
DTA Domestic Tariff Area
EDI Electronic Data Interchange
EEFC Exchange Earners’ Foreign Currency
EFC Exim Facilitation Committee
EFT Electronic Fund Transfer
EH Export House
EHTP Electronic Hardware Technology Park
EIC Export Inspection Council
EO Export Obligation
EOP Export Obligation Period
EOU Export Oriented Unit
EPC Export Promotion Council
EPCG Export Promotion Capital Goods
FDI Foreign Direct Investment
FIEO Federation of Indian Export Organisation
FOB Free On Board
FT (D&R) Act Foreign Trade (Development & Regulation) Act, 1992
FTP Foreign Trade Policy
GATS General Agreement on Trade in Services

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 FOREIGN TRADE POLICY 15.53

ICD Inland Container Depot

IEC Importer Exporter Code
ISO International Standards Organisation
ITC(HS) Indian Trade Classification (Harmonised System)

Classification for Export & Import Items

ITPO India Trade Promotion Organisation
LoC Line of Credit
LoI Letter of Intent
LoP Letter of Permit
LUT Legal Undertaking
MEA Ministry of External Affairs
MoD Ministry of Defence
MoF Ministry of Finance
NC Norms Committee
NFE Net Foreign Exchange
NOC No Objection Certificate
PSU Public Sector Undertaking
R&D Research and Development
RA Regional Authority
RBI Reserve Bank of India
RCMC Registration-cum-Membership Certificate
S/B Shipping Bill
SEZ Special Economic Zone
SION Standard Input Output Norms
SSI Small Scale Industry
STE State Trading Enterprise
STP Software Technology Park
TEE Towns of Export Excellence
VA Value Addition

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TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE

1. What do you understand by the term ‘Foreign Trade Policy’ (FTP)? Which is
the governing legislation for FTP? Which Government authorities administer
FTP in India?
2. Briefly explain as to how FTP is linked with customs laws.
3. Enumerate the various matters in respect of which policies and regulations
are framed under FTP.
4. With reference to the provisions of FTP 2015-2020, discuss giving reasons
whether the following statements are true or false:
(i) If any doubt arises in respect of interpretation of any provision of FTP,
the said doubt should be forwarded to CBIC, whose decision thereon
would be final and binding.
(ii) Authorization once claimed by an importer cannot be refused by DGFT.
(iii) IEC is a unique 12 digit PAN based alphanumeric code allotted to a
person for undertaking any export/ import activities.
(iv) Waste generated during manufacture in an SEZ Unit can be freely
disposed in DTA on payment of applicable customs duty, without any
authorization.
(v) A Customs Clearance Permit (CCP) is required from DGFT in certain
specific cases of import of gifts.
5. Mr. A wants to import by air a laptop from USA. Such laptop has been used
by Mr. B - the seller for few months there. Mr. A contends that he can freely
import such laptop without any restriction/ authorization. Examine the
correctness of Mr. A’s claim in the light of the provisions of FTP 2015-2020.
6. State in brief policy for import of samples.
7. State salient aspects of Advance authorisation for annual requirements to
exporters.
8. What are the salient features of Duty-Free Import Authorization Scheme
(DFIA)? Which duties are exempted under this scheme?
9. Answer the following questions with reference to the provisions of Duty Credit
Scrips under Export from India Schemes under FTP 2015-2020.
(i) Rishita provides services eligible for SEIS Scheme. She wants to sell SEIS

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 FOREIGN TRADE POLICY 15.55

scrips earned by her. Can she do so?

(ii) Can a manufacturer, instead of importing the inputs, source the same
indigenously without payment of GST?
(iii) An exporter was issued duty credit scrip dated 15.07.2015. What is the
period within which he must utilize the scrip?
(iv) An exporter exported leather footwears through courier using e-
commerce of value of ` 24,000. Can he apply for duty credit scrips
under Merchandise Exports from India Scheme (MEIS)?
10. Mention the reward scheme provided under FTP which aims to promote the
manufacture and export of notified goods/ products. Discuss the basis of
computation of reward under said scheme. How can the duty scrips issued
under the Scheme be utilized?
11. Explain salient features of post export EPCG scheme.
12. With reference to the provisions relating to EOU, EHTP, STP, BTP & SEZ
Schemes as contained in FTP, answer the following questions:
(i) A unit intending to trade in handicrafts wants to set up an EOU. Is it
allowed?
(ii) An EOU has started production after 4 years 10 months from the date of
grant of Letter of Permission (LoP)/ Letter of Intent (LoI). Is it correct?
(iii) A EOU wants to import a second hand capital goods which is prohibited
under ITC (HS). Can it do so?
13. List some supplies which are ‘deemed exports’ for purpose of benefits under
Foreign Trade Policy 2015-2020.
14. Explain the salient features of Foreign Trade Policy.
15. Write a short note on ‘Board of Trade’.
16. What are the features of Advance Authorization Scheme? Enlist the items
which can be and which cannot be imported against Advance Authorization.
17. Discuss the benefits granted under FTP to Status Holders.
18. Explain the significant features of EPCG Scheme. Which type of capital goods
cannot be imported under such Scheme?
19. Write short notes on the following with reference to the provisions relating to
EOU/EHTP/STP/BTP as contained in the FTP:

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 15.56 CUSTOMS & FTP

(i) Entitlement for supplies from DTA

(ii) Inter-unit transfer
(iii) Sale of unutilized material
(iv) Replacement/repair of imported/indigenous goods
(v) Exit from EOU Scheme
20. What is ‘deemed exports’? Which type of supplies are regarded as deemed
exports?

ANSWERS/ HINTS
1. Foreign Trade Policy is a set of guidelines or instructions issued by the
Central Government in matters related to import and export of goods in
India viz., foreign trade. The FTP, in general, aims at developing export
potential, improving export performance, encouraging foreign trade and
creating favorable balance of payments position.
In India, Ministry of Commerce and Industry governs the affairs relating to
the promotion and regulation of foreign trade. The main legislation
concerning foreign trade is the Foreign Trade (Development and
Regulation) Act, 1992 FT (D&R) Act.
In exercise of the powers conferred by the FT (D&R) Act, the Union Ministry
of Commerce and Industry, Government of India announces the integrated
Foreign Trade Policy (FTP) in every five years with certain underlined
objectives. This policy is generally updated every year in April, in addition
to changes that are made throughout the year.
The FTP is formulated, controlled and supervised by the office of the
Director General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), an attached office of the Ministry
of Commerce & Industry, Government of India. DGFT has several offices in
various parts of the country which work on the basis of the policy formed by
the headquarters at Delhi.
Though the FTP is formulated by DGFT, it is administered in close
coordination with other agencies. Other important authorities dealing with
FTP are:
(i) Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC)
(ii) Reserve Bank of India (RBI)

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 FOREIGN TRADE POLICY 15.57

(iii) State VAT Departments

2. The Foreign Trade Policy is closely knit with the Customs laws of India.
However, the policy provisions per-se do not override tax laws. The
exemptions extended by FTP are given effect to by issue of notifications
under respective tax laws (e.g., IGST Act, CGST Act, SGST/UTGST Act,
Customs Tariff Act, 1975, Central Excise Act, 1944, Customs Act, 1962 etc.).
Thus, actual benefit of the exemption depends on the language of
exemption notifications issued by the CBIC.
In most of the cases the exemption notifications refer to policy provisions
for detailed conditions. Ministry of Finance/ Tax Authorities cannot
question the decision of authorities under the Ministry of Commerce (so far
as the issue of authorization etc. is concerned).
Decision of Director General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) is final and binding in
respect of (a) Interpretation of any provision of foreign trade policy or
provision of Handbook of Procedures, Appendices, Aayat Niryat Forms (b)
Classification of any item in ITC(HS).
3. Following issues are covered under FTP 2015-2020 -
♦ General provisions regarding import and export of goods – Chapter 2
of FTP 2015-2020.
♦ Export From India Scheme [MEIS and SEIS] to encourage exports of
specified goods to specified countries and also export of services –
Chapter 3 of FTP 2015-2020.
♦ Duty Exemption and Remission Schemes [Advance Authorisation, DFIA
and Duty Drawback Scheme and duty remissions schemes under GST
law] to enable exporters to import inputs without payment of customs
duty – Chapter 4 of FTP 2015-2020.
♦ Export Promotion Capital Goods (EPCG) scheme [to obtain capital
goods without payment of customs duty] – Chapter 5 of FTP 2015-
2020.
♦ EOU/EHTP/STP and BTP schemes – Chapter 6 of FTP 2015-2020.
♦ Deemed Exports – Chapter 7 of FTP 2015-2020.
♦ Quality Complaints and Trade Disputes – Chapter 8 of FTP 2015-2020.
Policy in respect of Special Economic Zones [SEZ] is contained in SEZ Act,
2005 and Rules.

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 15.58 CUSTOMS & FTP

4. (i) False. If any question or doubt arises in respect of interpretation of

any provision of the FTP, said question or doubt ought to be referred
to DGFT whose decision thereon would be final and binding.
(ii) False. No person may claim an Authorization as a right and DGFT
shall have power to refuse to grant or renew the same in accordance
with provisions of FT(D&R) Act, rules made thereunder and FTP.
(iii) False. IEC is a unique 10 digit code allotted to a person for
undertaking export/ import activities.
(iv) True. Any waste or scrap or remnant including any form of metallic
waste & scrap generated during manufacturing or processing
activities of an SEZ Unit/ Developer/ Co-developer are allowed to be
disposed in DTA freely, without any authorization, subject to payment
of applicable customs duty.
(v) True. A Customs Clearance Permit (CCP) for import of gifts is not
required from DGFT if such goods are otherwise freely importable
under ITC(HS). Thus, only when the goods imported as gifts are not
freely importable under ITC(HS), a CCP is required.
5. Import of one laptop computer (notebook computer) is exempt from whole
of the customs duty. Further, Foreign Trade Policy 2015-2020 provides that
import of second hand laptop requires authorization.
In view of above, Mr. A’s claim is not correct as second hand laptops can be
imported only against an authorization.
6. No authorisation is required for import of bona fide technical and trade
samples. These are importable freely. Samples upto ` 3,00,000 can be
imported by all exporters without duty.
Authorisation for import of samples is required only in case of vegetable
seeds, bees and new drugs. Samples of tea upto ` 2,000 (CIF) per
consignment will be allowed without authorization.
7. Annual Advance authorisation would be issued to exporters having past
export performance for at least two financial years, to enable them to
import the inputs required by them on annual basis.
Advance authorization for Annual Basis can be only on basis of prescribed
manner and not on basis of ad hoc norms.

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Annual Advance Authorisation in terms of CIF value of imports will be

granted upto 300% of FOB value of physical exports in preceding financial
year and/or FOR value of deemed exports in preceding year or ` 1 crore,
whichever is higher.
8. DFIA is issued to allow duty free import of inputs, oil and catalyst which are
required for production of export product. The goods imported are exempt
ONLY from basic customs duty.
DFIA shall be issued on post export basis for products for which SION have
been notified. Separate DFIA shall be issued for each SION and each port.
No DFIA shall be issued for an export product where SION prescribes
‘Actual User’ condition for any input.
Holder of DFIA has an option to procure the materials/ inputs from
indigenous manufacturer/STE in lieu of direct import against Advance
Release Order (ARO)/ Invalidation letter/ Back to Back Inland Letter of
Credit. However, DFIA holder may obtain supplies from
EOU/EHTP/BTP/STP/SEZ units, without obtaining ARO or Invalidation letter.
Drawback as per rate determined and fixed by Customs authority shall be
available for duty paid inputs, whether imported or indigenous, used in the
export product.
DFIA or the inputs imported against it can be transferred after the
fulfillment of the export obligation. A minimum 20% value addition is
required for issuance of DFIA except for items in gems and jewellery sector.
9. (i) Yes. The duty credit scrips and goods imported or domestically
procured against them are freely transferable.
(ii) No. Utilization of duty credit scrip is not permitted for payment of
GST for procurement from domestic sources.
(iii) The duty credit scrip will be valid for 18 months from date of issue.
(iv) Yes. Exports of leather footwears through courier using e-commerce
of FOB value of ` 25,000 per consignment are eligible for MEIS.
10. The scheme is known as Merchandise Exports from India Scheme (MEIS).
The objective of MEIS scheme is to promote the manufacture and
export of notified goods/ products.

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Under MEIS, exports of notified goods/products to notified markets shall be

eligible for reward at the specified rate(s). Unless otherwise specified, the
basis of calculation of reward would be:
(i) on realised FOB value of exports in free foreign exchange,
or
(ii) on FOB value of exports as given in the Shipping Bills in free foreign
exchange,
whichever is less.
These scrips can be used for payment of customs duties on import of
inputs/goods including notified capital goods.
11. In EPCG scheme, first capital goods are imported without payment of
customs duty and then export obligation is fulfilled.
In case of post export EPCG scheme, the capital goods are imported on
full payment of applicable duties in cash. Later, basic customs duty paid
on Capital Goods shall be remitted in the form of freely transferable duty
credit scrips. Capital goods imported under EPCG Authorisation for
physical exports are also exempt from IGST and Compensation Cess
upto 01.10.2018.
In case integrated tax and compensation cess are paid in cash on
imports under EPCG, incidence of the said integrated tax and
compensation cess would not be taken for computation of net duty
saved provided input tax credit is not availed.
These Duty Credit Scrips can be used for payment of applicable custom
duties for imports. All other provisions of EPCG Scheme apply to post
export EPCG scheme also.
Specific Export Obligation under this Scheme shall be 85% of the applicable
specific EO [6 times of duties, taxes and cess saved on capital goods
imported under EPCG scheme to be fulfilled in 6 years reckoned from
authorization issue date]. Average EO remains unchanged.
Duty remission shall be in proportion to the Export Obligation fulfilled.
The advantage of the scheme is that the exporter does not have any specific
export obligation when he imports capital goods on payment of full
customs duty. Later, he gets remission on the basis of exports made by him.
12. (i) No. Units undertaking to export their entire production of goods and
services (except permissible sales in DTA), may be set up under the

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Export Oriented Unit (EOU) Scheme, Electronics Hardware Technology

Park (EHTP) Scheme, Software Technology Park (STP) Scheme or Bio-
Technology Park (BTP) Scheme for manufacture of goods, including
repair, re- making, reconditioning, re-engineering and rendering of
services. Trading units are not covered under these schemes.
(ii) No. EOU/ BTP/ EHTP/ STPs should start production within 2 years
from the date of grant of Letter of Permission (LoP)/ Letter of Intent
(LoI). In other words, LoP/ LoI have an initial validity of 2 years, by
which time unit should have commenced production. Its validity may
be extended further up to 2 years by competent authority. However,
proposals for extension beyond four years shall be considered in
exceptional circumstances, on a case to case basis by BoA.
(iii) No. Though an EOU is permitted to import duty free second hand
capital goods, without any age limit, it cannot import capital goods
that are prohibited items of import in the ITC(HS).
13. As per FTP 2015-2020, following are treated as deemed exports:
♦ Supplies against Advance Authorisation/DFIA
♦ Supplies to EOU/STP/EHTP/BTP
♦ Supplies against EPCG authorization
♦ Supply of marine freight containers by 100% EOU
♦ Supplies to projects against International Competitive Bidding
♦ Supplies to projects where imports permitted at zero customs duty
♦ Supply to mega power projects
♦ Supplies to UN or International Organizations for their official use.
♦ Supplies to nuclear projects
14. Refer para 1 of Unit I
15. Refer para 1 of Unit I
16. Refer para 1 of Unit II
17. Refer para 2 of Unit II
18. Refer para 3 of Unit II
19. Refer para 4 of Unit II
20. Refer para 5 of Unit II

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