India Extends IT Hardware Import System Until December 31

The Indian government has extended the approval system for importing IT hardware, including laptops and tablets, until December 31, 2024. Initially implemented in August 2023 to monitor imports from China, the policy aims to support India's local production. New authorizations will be required starting January 2025.

The government has extended the current approval system for IT hardware imports, such as laptops and tablets, until December 31, 2024. This decision, announced on Tuesday, is part of an ongoing effort to regulate inbound shipments from China without disrupting market supply.

The system, initially set to be reviewed by September 30, has authorized imports worth $8.4 billion out of a $9.5 billion quota for 2023-24. Importers can now seek new authorizations valid up to December 2024, with existing approvals extended to the same date.

Implemented in August 2023, the import management system aims to encourage local production. Think tank GTRI stresses the importance of enforcing these restrictions to motivate tech giants like Apple and Dell to establish manufacturing operations in India, thereby reducing reliance on Chinese imports.

(With inputs from agencies.)