Government restricts import of laptop, computers, tablets

The Indian government has imposed immediate restrictions on importing laptops, tablets, and personal computers falling under HSN 8741 category. As per a government notification, the import of restricted items will be allowed only against a valid license. However, the curbs will not be applicable to imports under Baggage Rules.

“Exemption from import licensing is allowed for one laptop, tablet, all-in-one Personal Computer or Ultra small form factor Computer, including those purchased from e-commerce portals, through post or courier, subject to applicable duty payment,” said the notification issued by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Department of Commerce, Government of India.

Every passenger who enters or leaves India has to clear some Custom checks, which are also referred as baggage rules.

“Exemption from import licence is provided for up to 20 such items per consignment for the purpose of R&D (research and development), testing, benchmarking and evaluation, repair and re-export, and product development purposes.”

"Given imports shall be allowed subject to the condition that the imported goods shall be used for the stated purposes only and will not be sold. Further, after the intended purpose, the products would either be destroyed beyond use or re-exported," said the notification.

The items that are being re-imported after being repaired abroad, licence for Restricted Imports of such goods will not be needed, the government clarified.

Moreover, the notice adds that, “Laptops, Tablets, All-in-one Personal Computers and Ultra small factor Computers and Servers which are an essential part of a Capital Good shall be exempted from the import licencing requirements.”

The move is in line with the government's initiatives to boost manufacturing in India and BJP-led government's ‘Make In India’ programme. The curbs on import will give a boost to local manufacturers of electronic products such as laptops, computers, etc.

Major foreign players in Indian market in the laptops, computers segment are - Dell, Acer, Samsung, Panasonic, Apple, Lenovo and HP.