Amendment in import policy condition of items under HS Code 1511 90 of Chapter 15 of ITC (HS), 2022, Schedule I (Import Policy)

## Report on Amendment to Import Policy for Specific HS Codes of Palm Oil **1. Executive Summary:** This report analyzes an amendment to the import policy for specific items under HS Code 1511 90 of Chapter 15 of the ITC (HS), 2022, Schedule I Import Policy. The amendment, issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), extends the "free" import policy for Refined bleached deodorised palm oil, Refined bleached deodorised palmolein, and Other palm oil (HS codes 15119010, 15119020, and 15119090 respectively) beyond December 31, 2022, until further orders. The amendment maintains the restriction on imports through any port in Kerala. This report details the changes, affected stakeholders, and potential impact of this amendment. **2. Introduction:** The purpose of this report is to provide a comprehensive overview of the recent amendment to the import policy concerning specific palm oil products, as detailed in the provided government notification. The analysis is based solely on the information presented within the provided text. **3. Policy Overview:** This report concerns an *amendment* to an existing import policy. The original policy is referenced through the Foreign Trade Policy, 2015-2020. The core objective of the original policy, as it relates to the *amendment* and inferred from the provided text, appears to be the regulation of the import of goods, specifically palm oil products. The amendment focuses on extending a pre-existing "free" import status for specific palm oil types. **4. Background and Rationale:** This amendment addresses the scheduled expiration of the "free" import policy for the specified palm oil products on December 31, 2022. The rationale for this *specific* amendment appears to be the government's decision to continue the existing import conditions, likely due to market conditions, supply considerations, or other factors deemed relevant by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry. The continuation suggests the government found no compelling reason to revert to previous (potentially more restrictive) import policies. **5. Key Provisions / Changes:** This is an amendment; therefore, this section focuses on the changes introduced. * **Specific Part of Original Policy Changed:** The amendment alters the "Import Existing Policy condition" for HS codes 15119010, 15119020, and 15119090. The original policy condition stipulated "Free Import is free for a period up to 31.12.2022." * **New Rule/Provision:** The new rule, introduced by the amendment, replaces the previous date-limited provision with "Import is free until further orders." The restriction “Imports are not permitted through any port in Kerala” remains unchanged. * **Difference/Effect of the Change:** The key difference is the removal of the sunset clause. Previously, the "free" import status would have automatically ended on December 31, 2022, potentially leading to changes in import duties or regulations. The amendment provides continued certainty for importers by extending the "free" import policy indefinitely (until further notice). **6. Target Audience and Stakeholders:** Based on the provided text, the directly affected stakeholders include: * Importers of Refined bleached deodorised palm oil (HS code 15119010) * Importers of Refined bleached deodorised palmolein (HS code 15119020) * Importers of Other palm oil (HS code 15119090) * Businesses and consumers reliant on these imported palm oil products. * Port authorities and related logistical services, *excluding* those in Kerala. **7. Implementation Aspects (Inferred):** * **Responsible Agency:** The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, is responsible for implementing and overseeing this amendment. * **Timelines:** The amendment is effective immediately from December 28, 2022 and continues until further orders are issued. * **Procedures:** The text does not specify new procedures. Importers can continue to import the specified palm oil products under the "free" import policy, adhering to existing customs regulations and *excluding imports through ports in Kerala*. **8. Expected Outcomes / Impact of Changes:** The likely intended outcome of this amendment is to: * Maintain a stable supply of the specified palm oil products in the Indian market by ensuring uninterrupted "free" imports. * Provide predictability and reduce uncertainty for importers, enabling them to plan their operations more effectively. * Avoid potential price fluctuations or disruptions in the supply chain that might have occurred if the "free" import policy had expired. * The impact on Kerala remains unchanged, with the restriction on imports through ports in Kerala still in effect. **9. Conclusion:** The amendment to the import policy for specific palm oil products, extending the "free" import status beyond December 31, 2022, is a significant decision that ensures continued stability and predictability for importers. The indefinite extension, until further orders, provides a level of assurance that may contribute to a more consistent supply and pricing environment for these essential commodities, excluding imports through ports in Kerala. The DGFT's role in overseeing this amendment is crucial for its effective implementation and monitoring of its impact on the market.

Key Entities Referenced