Public Notice No. 54/2025-26, Dated 30-03-2026
The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) has issued a public notice under Chapter 4 of HBP 2023, introducing one-time relaxation measures for the Gem & Jewellery sector to address disruptions arising from prevailing global conditions.
1. Automatic Extension of Timelines
The notice provides that where the timelines for:
- Re-export
- Export
- Re-import
are expiring between 01-03-2026 and 31-05-2026, such periods shall automatically stand extended by 30 days from their respective date of expiry.
2. Applicability Across HBP Provisions
The relaxation has been incorporated across specified paragraphs of HBP 2023, ensuring uniform applicability across relevant procedures governing the sector.
3. No Procedural Formalities Required
A key feature of this relaxation is that it:
- Operates automatically
- Does not require any application, fee, amendment, or endorsement
- Reduces compliance burden and administrative delays
4. Role of Customs Authorities
Customs Authorities are directed to:
- Permit export or import based on the extended timelines
- Conduct verification of relevant details where required
This ensures smooth implementation at the operational level.
5. Objective of the Relaxation
The measure aims to:
- Support exporters facing global trade disruptions
- Provide operational flexibility
- Ensure continuity in trade flows
6. Conclusion
The DGFT’s one-time relaxation offers timely and practical relief to the Gem & Jewellery sector by extending critical timelines without procedural hurdles, thereby facilitating smoother trade operations.
7. Note on Adjudication Context
Separately, it is noted that in certain cases, show-cause notices have been issued, and adjudication has resulted in confirmation of duty demands on multiple consignments, including past clearances.
These actions have primarily been based on:
- Country-of-origin certificates
- Perceived similarity with tested consignments
This highlights the continued importance of accurate documentation and compliance in customs matters.