New Import Policy for Areca Nuts Notified by DGFT

The Government of India has recently introduced significant amendments to the import policy for Areca Nuts through Notification No. 43/2025-26, issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) under the Ministry of Commerce & Industry. This notification, dated October 15, 2025, outlines changes to the import conditions for Areca Nuts falling under ITC (HS) Codes 08028090 and 20081991. Here’s a detailed look at the new policy and its implications.

Key Highlights of the Notification

Amendments to ITC (HS) Code 08028090 (Areca Nut – Other):
- Policy: Prohibited.
- Policy Condition:
  - Import is allowed if the Cost, Insurance, and Freight (CIF) value is Rs. 351/- or above per kilogram.
  - The Minimum Import Price (MIP) condition does not apply to:
    - 100% Export Oriented Units (EOUs),
    - Units in Special Economic Zones (SEZs),
    - Imports under the Advance Authorization Scheme.
Amendments to ITC (HS) Code 20081991 (Roasted Areca Nuts):
- Policy: Free.
- Policy Condition:
  - Import of Roasted Areca Nuts with a CIF value of less than Rs. 351/- per kilogram is prohibited.
  - Import of all other roasted nuts and seeds remains free.
  - The MIP condition for Roasted Areca Nuts does not apply to:
    - 100% Export Oriented Units (EOUs),
    - Units in Special Economic Zones (SEZs),
    - Imports under the Advance Authorization Scheme.

Effect of the Notification 

The notification explicitly prohibits the import of Roasted Areca Nuts (ITC HS Code 20081991) with a CIF value below Rs. 351/- per kilogram. This move aims to regulate the import of low-value Areca Nuts while ensuring that high-value imports and imports by specific entities such as EOUs, SEZs, and those under the Advance Authorization Scheme remain unaffected.

Implications of the Policy Change

Support for Domestic Producers: The prohibition on low-value Areca Nut imports is likely to protect domestic Areca Nut farmers and producers from competition posed by cheaper imports.
Encouragement for High-Value Imports: By allowing imports above the specified CIF value, the government ensures that only high-quality Areca Nuts enter the Indian market, promoting quality standards.
Exemptions for EOUs and SEZs: The exemptions for 100% EOUs, SEZs, and imports under the Advance Authorization Scheme provide flexibility for businesses engaged in export-oriented production, ensuring their operations remain unaffected.
Impact on Importers: Importers dealing in low-value Areca Nuts will need to reassess their sourcing strategies to comply with the new MIP conditions.

Conclusion

The revised import policy for Areca Nuts reflects the government’s commitment to balancing the interests of domestic producers with the need for high-quality imports. By setting Minimum Import Price thresholds and providing exemptions for specific entities, the policy aims to regulate the market effectively while supporting economic growth.

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Source: DGFT

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