DGFT Extends Validity of Gold Import TRQ Authorisations
DGFT Extends Validity of Gold Import TRQ Authorisations under India-UAE CEPA till 30 June 2026
In a recent development aimed at facilitating importers and addressing disruptions in global trade, the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) has issued Public Notice No. 53/2025-26 dated 24 March 2026, extending the validity of Tariff Rate Quota (TRQ) Authorisations for import of gold under the India‑UAE Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (India-UAE CEPA).
This extension provides additional time for importers to utilise their TRQ authorisations issued during Financial Year 2025-26.
Background
Under the India-UAE CEPA, India allows the import of gold under a Tariff Rate Quota mechanism, which permits importers to bring gold at concessional duty rates within a specified quota.
The applicable tariff classification for gold imports under this arrangement falls under:
- Customs Tariff Heading (CTH): 7108
These TRQ authorisations were originally valid up to 31 March 2026.
Key Announcement by DGFT
Considering the prevailing geopolitical developments affecting global trade and logistics, DGFT has decided to extend the validity of the TRQ authorisations.
Revised Validity Period
| Particulars | Earlier Validity | Revised Validity |
|---|---|---|
| TRQ Authorisations issued in FY 2025-26 | 31 March 2026 | 30 June 2026 |
Accordingly, eligible importers can now utilise their authorisations until 30 June 2026.
Automatic Extension – No Additional Compliance
One of the most important aspects of the Public Notice is that the extension has been granted automatically.
Importers do not need to undertake any additional formalities, such as:
- Filing a fresh application
- Paying any composition fee
- Seeking amendment or endorsement of the authorisation
The validity stands extended by default.
Legal Basis of the Extension
The extension has been granted by DGFT by exercising powers under the following provisions of the Foreign Trade Policy 2023:
- Paragraph 1.03 – Authority of DGFT to issue notifications and public notices
- Paragraph 2.04 – Power to relax provisions of the policy
These provisions enable DGFT to provide policy relaxations in situations affecting trade.
Impact on Importers
The extension is expected to benefit gold importers operating under the India-UAE CEPA framework, particularly those facing delays due to:
- geopolitical uncertainties
- supply chain disruptions
- logistics challenges in global trade
By extending the validity period, the government has ensured that authorised importers can fully utilise their allocated TRQ quota without the risk of authorisation expiry.
Effect of the Public Notice
As per the notification:
The validity of TRQ Authorisations for import of gold under CTH 7108 issued in FY 2025-26 under the India-UAE CEPA stands automatically extended up to 30 June 2026.
Conclusion
The extension granted by DGFT reflects the government’s proactive approach in supporting trade amid global uncertainties. By allowing additional time for utilisation of TRQ authorisations, the policy provides operational relief and regulatory certainty to gold importers.
Businesses engaged in gold imports under the India-UAE CEPA should take note of the revised validity period and plan their imports accordingly.
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