Amendment in Import Policy Condition for de notifying MMTC as a STE for import of Copra under Chapter 12 of ITC (HS), 2022, Schedule I (Import Policy)

## Policy Analysis Report: Amendment to Import Policy for Copra (HS Code 12030000) **1. Executive Summary:** This report analyzes an amendment to the Indian import policy concerning Copra (dried coconut kernel) under HS Code 12030000, as detailed in Notification No. 48/2015-2020, dated December 8, 2022. The core purpose of this amendment is to denotify the Minerals and Metals Trading Corporation (MMTC) as a State Trading Enterprise (STE) authorized to import Copra and designate the National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Federation of India (NAFED) as the sole entity through which such imports are permitted. This report provides an overview of the amendment, its rationale, key changes, and expected impact on the import of Copra in India. **2. Introduction:** This report aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the amendment to the import policy for Copra, as outlined in the provided government notification. The analysis is based solely on the information contained within the notification text. **3. Policy Overview:** * **Amendment to:** Foreign Trade Policy 2015-2020, specifically concerning the import policy conditions under Chapter 12 of ITC (HS), 2022, Schedule I (Import Policy). * **Core Objective(s):** To revise the import mechanism for Copra by changing the designated State Trading Enterprise responsible for its import. **4. Background and Rationale:** The amendment suggests a change in the government's strategy regarding the import of Copra. The specific reason for denotifying MMTC as an STE and designating NAFED in its place is not explicitly stated in the provided text. However, it can be inferred that the change aims to improve the efficiency, control, or alignment with other agricultural policies related to Copra imports. It may be related to restructuring the role of different government agencies in agricultural trade. **5. Key Provisions / Changes:** This amendment specifically focuses on changing the authorized channel for Copra imports. * **Specific Part of Original Policy Changed:** The policy condition for HS Code 12030000 (Copra) under Chapter 12 of ITC (HS), 2022, Schedule I (Import Policy). * **New Rule/Provision:** Import of Copra under HS Code 12030000 shall be allowed through NAFED, subject to Para 2.20 of the Foreign Trade Policy. * **Difference/Effect of Change:** Previously, Copra imports were permitted through MMTC, subject to Para 2.20 of the Foreign Trade Policy. Now, MMTC is no longer authorized, and NAFED is the designated entity. This means that importers seeking to import Copra must now do so through NAFED. **6. Target Audience and Stakeholders:** The primary stakeholders directly affected by this amendment are: * **Copra Importers:** They must now work through NAFED to import Copra. * **NAFED:** It assumes the responsibility of facilitating Copra imports. * **MMTC:** Loses its role as an authorized importer of Copra. * **Consumers and Industries using Copra:** While not directly involved in the import process, changes in import channels may impact the availability and price of Copra. **7. Implementation Aspects (Inferred):** * **Responsible Agency/Bodies:** The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) issued the notification with the approval of the Ministry of Commerce and Industry. NAFED is now responsible for facilitating Copra imports. * **Timelines or Procedures:** The amendment is effective immediately upon notification (December 8, 2022). Specific procedures for importing through NAFED are likely governed by Para 2.20 of the Foreign Trade Policy (referenced in the text) and NAFED's internal operational guidelines, which are not detailed in this notification. **8. Expected Outcomes / Impact of Changes:** The intended outcome of this change is likely to streamline or consolidate the import process for Copra under a single designated agency (NAFED). Potential impacts include: * **Centralized Import Management:** NAFED will have greater control over Copra imports. * **Potential Impact on Prices:** The change in import channel could potentially influence the price and availability of Copra, although the direction and magnitude are unclear based solely on the provided text. * **Operational Adjustments for Importers:** Importers will need to establish relationships and comply with NAFED's import procedures. **9. Conclusion:** The amendment to the import policy for Copra, designating NAFED as the sole importing entity, represents a significant shift in the import mechanism for this commodity. This change is likely intended to improve the management and control of Copra imports, although the full impact will depend on NAFED's operational efficiency and the broader market dynamics. Stakeholders, particularly Copra importers, need to understand the implications of this amendment and adapt their import strategies accordingly.

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