Exemptions for Highly Specialized Equipment under the Electronics and Information Technology Goods Registration Order, 2021

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Dated: 13.06.2026

Exemptions for Highly Specialized Equipment under the Electronics and Information Technology Goods Registration Order, 2021

Recent amendments by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) have introduced targeted exemptions for Highly Specialized Equipment (HSE) under the Electronics and Information Technology Goods (Requirements for Compulsory Registration) Order, 2021. This article details the scope, criteria, and implications of these exemptions for stakeholders in the electronics and IT sectors.

Background

The Electronics and Information Technology Goods (Requirements for Compulsory Registration) Order, 2021, requires certain electronic and IT goods to be registered and comply with Indian standards before import or sale. Recognizing the unique nature of some specialized equipment, the government has now provided a pathway for exemption, aiming to streamline processes for low-volume, technically distinct products.

Key Amendment Highlights

Notification Reference: S.O. 1246(E) dated 10th March, 2026
Effective Date: 15th June, 2026
Authority: Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), under the Bureau of Indian Standards Act, 2016

Criteria for Exemption

To qualify for exemption from compulsory registration, Highly Specialized Equipment must:

Be manufactured or imported in less than 100 units per model per year
Meet at least one of the following technical criteria:
1. Powered by three phase power supply
2. Powered by single phase power supply with current rating exceeding 16 Ampere
3. Dimensions exceeding 1.5 meters x 0.8 meters
4. Weight exceeding 80 kilograms

Regulatory Process

Exemptions are granted based on a specific exemption issued by MeitY under the relevant Gazette notifications.
Customs and regulatory officers are directed to be sensitized to these changes to ensure smooth implementation at ports and during inspections.
Any operational difficulties should be reported to the Central Board of Indirect Taxes & Customs (CBIC).

Implications for Stakeholders

For Manufacturers and Importers

Reduced Compliance Burden: Eligible HSE can bypass the standard registration process, saving time and resources.
Strict Eligibility: Only equipment meeting the technical and quantity criteria will qualify. Accurate records must be maintained to demonstrate compliance.

For Regulatory Authorities

Awareness and Training: Officers must be updated on the new exemption rules to prevent unnecessary delays or disputes.
Oversight: Vigilance is required to ensure that exemptions are not misused for non-qualifying products.

Implementation Timeline

The exemption provisions are effective from 15th June, 2026.
Only equipment manufactured or imported in quantities below the specified threshold and meeting at least one technical criterion will be eligible.

Conclusion

The exemption for Highly Specialized Equipment under the Electronics and Information Technology Goods (Requirements for Compulsory Registration) Order, 2021, reflects a balanced approach by the government—facilitating innovation and efficiency for specialized, low-volume products while maintaining regulatory oversight. Stakeholders should review the official notifications and ensure strict adherence to the outlined criteria to benefit from these exemptions.

In case you face any issues related to Indirect Tax-Customs, GST, Foreign Trade Policy (FTP), Arbitration matters and Central Licensing and related advisory matters in India then please feel free to get in touch with SJ EXIM Services.

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

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