Major Amendments to Customs Tariffs and Import Regulations

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Dated: 13.05.2026

Major Amendments to Customs Tariffs and Import Regulations

The Government of India has issued Notification No. 16/2026-Customs, introducing significant changes to customs tariffs and import regulations for specific goods. These amendments, effective from May 13, 2026, aim to streamline import procedures, adjust duty rates, and clarify exemptions for precious metals and related products.

Key Highlights of the Notification

Expanded Coverage of Precious Metals
- The notification broadens the scope of goods under customs headings, now including 7107, 7108, 7109, 7111, and 7112. This expansion ensures more comprehensive regulation of precious metals such as gold, silver, platinum, and their derivatives.
Revised Duty Rates for Precious Metal Imports
- Several entries in previous notifications have been amended to update customs duty rates:
  - Spent catalyst or ash containing precious metals (Heading 7112): Duty set at 4.35%, provided importers follow the Customs (Import of Goods at Concessional Rate of Duty or for Specified End Use) Rules, 2022, and obtain clearance from the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.
  - Other goods under Heading 7112: Duty set at 5%.
  - Gold, silver, and platinum findings (Heading 7113): Duty rates are 5% for gold and silver findings, and 5.4% for platinum findings. Findings refer to small components used in jewellery, such as hooks, clasps, and pins.
  - All goods under Heading 7118: Duty set at 5%.
  - All goods under Headings 7107 00 00 and 7109 00 00: Duty set at 5%.
  - All goods under Heading 7111 00 00: Duty set at 5.4%.
  - Gold and Silver under notification No. 57/2000-Customs: Duty set at 4.35%.
  - Other goods under Heading 71 with exemption under notification No. 57/2000-Customs: Duty is Nil.
Procedural Requirements for Importers
- Importers of spent catalyst or ash containing precious metals must:
  - Provide an undertaking to customs authorities regarding the percentage of precious metals and confirm the goods are for recovery purposes.
  - Obtain a certificate from the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change permitting import for recovery or recycling.
Omissions and Substitutions
- Certain entries and exemptions in previous notifications have been omitted or substituted to remove ambiguities and ensure clarity in customs regulations.

Impact on Importers and Industry

Greater Clarity: The amendments provide clearer guidelines for importers of precious metals and related goods, reducing confusion and streamlining compliance.
Environmental Safeguards: By requiring certification from the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, the government ensures imports for recovery or recycling are environmentally responsible.
Duty Adjustments: Revised duty rates may affect the cost structure for importers and manufacturers, encouraging compliance and potentially influencing market prices.

Implementation Timeline

The changes outlined in Notification No. 16/2026-Customs will be effective from May 13, 2026. Importers and stakeholders should review the updated regulations and ensure all procedural requirements are met for smooth customs clearance.

References

Notification No. 16/2026-Customs, Ministry of Finance, Department of Revenue, Government of India
Customs Act, 1962
Finance Act, 2018 and 2021
Customs (Import of Goods at Concessional Rate of Duty or for Specified End Use) Rules, 2022

These amendments mark a significant step in modernizing India’s customs framework for precious metals and related goods, balancing industry needs with regulatory oversight and environmental responsibility.

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Source: CBIC, Ministry of Finance, Govt. of India

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