Public Notice No. 45/2025-26, Dated 23-01-2026
1. Introduction: DGFT Issues Public Notice on Gold TRQ Allocation
The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) has issued Public Notice No. 45/2025-26 dated 23 January 2026, notifying the procedure for the second round of allocation of Tariff Rate Quota (TRQ) for gold imports under tariff head 7108. The allocation is being undertaken pursuant to the India–UAE Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement for the financial year 2025–26.
2. Scope and Quantity of Second Round Allocation
As per the public notice, the second round of Gold TRQ allocation will be conducted through a competitive bidding or tender process. The total quantity available for allocation in this round has been fixed at 80 metric tonnes. The detailed tender procedure has been prescribed in the tender document provided in Annexure I and is hosted on the MSTC portal.
3. Eligibility Expansion and MSME Participation
In compliance with the directions of the Hon’ble High Court of Delhi, DGFT has broadened the eligibility criteria for participation in the second round. Applicants fulfilling the conditions specified in Annexure IV of Appendix 2A, including first-time applicants, are now eligible to apply. However, specified maximum allocation limits have been prescribed separately for Micro, Small, Medium Enterprises and other units.
4. Participation Rules and Validity of Authorisation
The public notice clarifies that participants from the first round of allocation are also eligible to participate in the second round. The quantity limits applicable to this round are in addition to the quantities already allocated earlier. TRQ authorisations issued under this round will be valid for a period of six months from the date of issuance. Participation is restricted to one registered MSTC user per IEC, and specific documentary requirements must be fulfilled during the technical bid stage.
5. Conclusion: Strengthening Transparency in Gold Import Allocations
The DGFT’s notification provides a transparent and structured framework for the second round of Gold TRQ allocation under the India–UAE CEPA. By expanding eligibility, defining clear bidding procedures, and prescribing strict compliance requirements, the public notice aims to ensure fair access, regulatory discipline, and efficient utilisation of the allocated gold import quota.
