DGFT Extends STE Status for Indian Potash Limited to Import Urea

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Dated: 30.03.2026

DGFT Extends STE Status for Indian Potash Limited to Import Urea

The Government of India has issued Notification No. 68/2025-26, dated March 27, 2026, announcing an amendment to the import policy condition for Urea under Exim Code 31021010 in the ITC (HS) 2022, Schedule-I (Import Policy). This notification, issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) under the Ministry of Commerce & Industry, extends the State Trading Enterprise (STE) status of Indian Potash Limited (IPL) for the import of Urea on Government account until March 31, 2027.

Key Highlights of the Notification:

Extension of STE Status for IPL:
- Indian Potash Limited (IPL) will continue to hold the STE status for importing Urea (Agricultural grade) on Government account.
- The extension is valid until March 31, 2027.
Legal Framework:
- The notification is issued under the powers conferred by Section 3 and Section 5 of the Foreign Trade (Development & Regulation) Act, 1992.
- It is also aligned with Paragraphs 1.02 and 2.01 of the Foreign Trade Policy (FTP) 2023, which governs imports by State Trading Enterprises.
Continuity of Previous Notifications:
- This notification builds upon and continues the provisions outlined in previous notifications, including:
  - Notification No. 54/2015-20 dated February 24, 2023
  - Notification No. 61/2015-20 dated March 22, 2023
  - Notification No. 79/2023 dated March 18, 2024
  - Notification No. 65/2024-25 dated March 18, 2025
- All other terms and conditions remain unchanged from Notification No. 79/2023 dated March 18, 2024.
Import Policy Condition:
- The import of Urea (Agricultural grade) on Government account will be carried out exclusively through Indian Potash Limited (IPL).
- This is subject to compliance with Paragraph 2.21 of FTP 2023, which governs imports by State Trading Enterprises.

Effect of the Notification:

The extension of STE status for IPL ensures that the import of Urea for agricultural purposes will continue to be streamlined and managed efficiently under Government oversight. This move is expected to support India’s agricultural sector by ensuring the availability of Urea, a critical fertilizer, through a trusted and established entity like IPL.

Background:

Indian Potash Limited (IPL) has been a key player in the import and distribution of fertilizers in India. By granting STE status to IPL, the Government ensures that Urea imports are conducted in a controlled and regulated manner, maintaining quality standards and meeting the demands of the agricultural sector.

The Foreign Trade Policy (FTP) 2023 provides the framework for imports by State Trading Enterprises, ensuring transparency and efficiency in the import process. The extension of IPL’s STE status aligns with the Government’s commitment to supporting agriculture and ensuring food security in the country.

Conclusion:

The extension of the STE status for Indian Potash Limited (IPL) until March 31, 2027, is a significant step by the Government of India to ensure the uninterrupted supply of Urea for agricultural purposes. By leveraging the expertise and infrastructure of IPL, the Government aims to meet the growing demand for fertilizers in the country while maintaining strict regulatory oversight. This decision underscores the importance of sustainable agricultural practices and the role of policy in supporting India’s farmers and agricultural economy.

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Source: DGFT

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