DGFT Revises Import Policy for Roasted Areca Nuts

The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), under the Ministry of Commerce & Industry, has issued Notification No. 02/2025-26 dated 2nd April 2025, revising the import policy of Roasted Areca Nuts under the ITC (HS) Code 08028090 and 20081920. This amendment introduces a new condition and clarifies the classification and policy stance for roasted areca nut imports.

Key Changes Introduced:

Import Policy for ITC (HS) Code 08028090 – “Areca Nut – Other”:

The import of areca nuts under this code is now Prohibited.
However, imports are permitted (Free) if the CIF value is ₹351/- or above per kilogram.
Minimum Import Price (MIP) condition is not applicable for:
- 100% Export Oriented Units (EOUs)
- Units in Special Economic Zones (SEZs)
- Imports under the Advance Authorisation Scheme
This code now explicitly covers all kinds of processed Areca Nuts, including Roasted Areca Nuts.

Import Policy for ITC (HS) Code 20081920 – “Other Roasted Nuts and Seeds”:

The policy remains Free,
But now explicitly excludes Roasted Areca Nuts, as they are classified under 08028090.

Effect of the Notification:

The import of Roasted Areca Nuts is no longer considered free under the general category of roasted nuts and seeds.
A CIF threshold of ₹351/- per kg has been introduced as the benchmark for permitted imports.
Helps in preventing undervaluation and misuse of import classifications.
Aims to protect domestic growers and prevent market distortion caused by low-cost imports.

Legal Reference:

This notification is issued under:

Section 3 and Section 5 of the Foreign Trade (Development & Regulation) Act, 1992
Paragraphs 1.02 and 2.01 of the Foreign Trade Policy 2015-2020, as amended

FTP Para 1.02 Amendment to FTP Central Government, in exercise of powers conferred by Section 3 and Section 5 of FT (D&R) Act, 1992, as amended from time to time, reserves the right to make any amendment to the FTP, by means of notification, in public interest.

FTP Para 2.01- States that import and export of goods are regulated through policies notified by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT). These policies determine whether a product is Free, Restricted, Prohibited, or Canalised, and are governed under the Foreign Trade (Development & Regulation) Act, 1992. All imports and exports must comply with the ITC (HS) classification, applicable restrictions, conditions, and procedural requirements issued by the Government.

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Source: DGFT

DGFT NotificationDownload

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