DGFT Restricts Import of Cabinet Hinges Valued Below ₹280/kg

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Dated: 28.05.2025

DGFT Restricts Import of Cabinet Hinges Valued Below ₹280/kg

The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) has issued Notification No. 14/2025-26 dated 5th June 2025, amending the import policy for various types of cabinet hinges and furniture fittings classified under Chapter 83 of the ITC (HS), 2022 – Schedule I (Import Policy). This notification introduces a CIF value threshold restriction for cabinet hinges to ensure quality control and prevent undervalued imports.

Key Highlights of Notification No. 14/2025-26

HS Codes Affected:

ITC (HS) Code	Product Description	Previous Import Policy	Revised Import Policy Condition
83021010	Hinges – Of steel	Free	Restricted if CIF < ₹280/kg
83021090	Hinges – Other	Free	Restricted if CIF < ₹280/kg
83024200	Other fittings suitable for furniture	Free	Restricted if CIF < ₹280/kg
83024900	Other mountings and fittings for furniture	Free	Restricted if CIF < ₹280/kg

Effect of the Notification

Cabinet hinges and related hardware fittings with CIF value below ₹280 per kilogram now fall under the “Restricted” category.
Such imports will require DGFT’s import authorization.
This move is aimed at:
- Curbing the dumping of low-grade hardware into Indian markets.
- Protecting domestic manufacturers from unfair price undercutting.
- Ensuring higher standards in furniture hardware components used across industries.

Impact on Stakeholders

Importers

Must now verify invoice CIF values and apply for DGFT import licenses if the declared price falls below ₹280/kg.

Furniture Manufacturers and OEMs

Should expect adjustments in sourcing timelines and possibly higher input costs where hinges are sourced from low-cost foreign suppliers.

Domestic Industry

Stands to benefit from reduced price pressure and greater demand for higher-quality, compliant indigenous products.

Legal Authority and Compliance

The Notification has been issued under:

Section 3 & Section 5 of the Foreign Trade (Development & Regulation) Act, 1992
Paragraphs 1.02 and 2.01 of the Foreign Trade Policy (FTP) 2023

Next Steps for Compliance

Review CIF Value: Before placing or clearing shipments, verify whether your cabinet hinges fall under the restricted threshold.
Apply for DGFT License: For affected products with CIF < ₹280/kg, file an import license application via DGFT portal.
Update Procurement Contracts: Communicate the policy change to international suppliers to ensure adjusted pricing and documentation.
Avoid Clearance Delays: Declare accurate CIF values and policy compliance to Customs to prevent detention or seizure.

Conclusion

DGFT’s Notification No. 14/2025-26 introduces a value-based import restriction to balance quality assurance with domestic market protection. Stakeholders involved in furniture hardware, interior fittings, and mechanical linkages must immediately align their procurement and compliance strategies with the revised import policy framework.

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Source: DGFT

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