DGFT Removes Extra Provision Allowing AA Holder to Import Gold Under Handbook of Procedures 2023

The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) has issued a public notice to make an amendment in the Handbook of Procedures 2023. This handbook is a government document that gives detailed guidelines for the Foreign Trade Policy (FTP), 2023. As per the Public Notice No. 28 /2025-2026, dated 23rd October, 2025, the DGFT is making changes to Para 4.84 (b) of of Handbook of Procedures 2023.

The amendment removes a provision that allowed the Advance Authorisation holder to import gold for replenishment after the exports have been completed. The amendment aims to align with the procedures in Para 4.84(b) of the Handbook of procedures with Para 4.36(a) of the Foreign Trade Policy.

The earlier Para was as follows:

“Export Obligation will be required to be fulfilled within 120 days from date of import of each consignment against Authorisation. However, Export Obligation period shall be 180 days from date of import of findings, mountings made of gold, platinum and silver and export of jewellery. No further extension in Export Obligation period will be allowed. Advance Authorisation holder may also import gold as replenishment after completion of exports.”

It has been amended as follows:

“Export Obligation will be required to be fulfilled within 120 days from the date of import of each consignment against Authorisation. However, Export Obligation period shall be 180 days from the date of import of findings, mountings made of gold, platinum and silver and to export of jewellery. No further extension in Export Obligation period will be allowed.”

The new changes are issued with immediate effect.