The Indian government has announced a delay in the implementation of the new licensing regime for imports of laptops, tablets, and personal computers. The government will provide a transition period of about three months before the new licensing requirement comes into effect. Import consignments can be cleared till October 31 without a license, and a government permit will be required for clearance of imports from November 1 onwards.
The move comes as a partial reversal from the previous decision to impose the licensing requirement with immediate effect, which had prompted calls for a delay. The government’s action was aimed at addressing the trade imbalance with China and promoting local manufacturing of technology products.To apply for the licenses, companies will have to provide information on consignment origin, number of pieces, and past import history. The government has assured that it will issue licenses promptly and will not create supply gaps in the market. Licenses can be obtained online.
This delay in the implementation of import restrictions provides some relief to technology companies that import laptops and tablets into India. However, it remains important for companies to prepare for the new licensing requirement once it comes into effect on November 1.