Executive Summary:
This Public Notice from the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) amends Chapter 10 of the Handbook of Procedures (HBP) 2023, specifically Para 10.15II, regarding the General Authorization for Export of Information Security items (GAEIS) under SCOMET Category 8A5 Part 2. It outlines the procedure for exporting indigenous SCOMET items, allowing exports based on a one-time GAEIS subject to specified conditions. The GAEIS is valid for three years, contingent on quarterly post-reporting.
Key Points / Main Content:
* **Eligibility and Application:**
* SCOMET authorization is not required for exporting/re-exporting Information Security items (excluding technology) under SCOMET Category 8A5 Part 2, subject to conditions.
* Exporters must apply online for a one-time GAEIS license via the SCOMET portal, including prescribed information.
* The Inter-Ministerial Working Group (IMWG) reviews applications based on submitted documents.
* **Required Documentation:**
* Detailed description of export items with technical specifications.
* End-User Certificates (EUCs) from all entities in the supply chain (buyer, consignee, end-user, intermediaries).
* A list of countries where exports are expected.
* An undertaking stating compliance with inspection requests, proper item use, and notification of potential misuse.
* Certified/Approved Internal Compliance Program by the company's Compliance Manager.
* Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) T2 Certification from CBIC.
* For re-exports: proof of import, bill of entry, and export license (if applicable).
* **Post-Authorization Requirements:**
* Exporters must notify relevant government authorities quarterly via the DGFT online portal (Aayat Niryat Form - ANF 10I) with EUCs for each export.
* EUCs must be filled by all supply chain entities, signed, stamped, and include the signatory's contact information.
* An agreement or purchase order excerpt must state the permitted use as declared in the EUC.
* **Post-Reporting Requirements:**
* Exporters must submit post-shipment details quarterly for 3 years (March, June, September, December) by the end of the following month.
* For re-exports, additional import documents must be submitted during post-reporting.
* Failure to comply may result in penalties or GAEIS suspension/revocation.
* **Record Keeping:**
* Exporters must maintain export documents for 5 years from the GAEIS issuance date.
* **General Conditions / Exclusions:**
* GAEIS will not be issued for items used in military applications, explosives, or weapons of mass destruction.
* GAEIS will not be issued for countries/entities under UNSC embargoes or sanctions, or those posing proliferation concerns.
* Prior DGFT permission is required for adding or amending the list of countries for export.
* IMWG reserves the right to deny GAEIS issuance without assigning reasons.
* **Validity and Revalidation:**
* GAEIS is valid for three years from the issue date, subject to quarterly post-reporting.
* GAEIS cannot be revalidated.
* **Suspension / Revocation:**
* DGFT can suspend/revoke GAEIS for adverse reports, non-compliance, or failure to submit post-shipment details.
Impact Analysis:
* **Exporters of Information Security Items (SCOMET Category 8A5 Part 2):**
* Impact: Benefit from a streamlined export process via the General Authorization, reducing the need for individual licenses.
* Action Required: Apply for GAEIS through the online portal, provide necessary documentation, ensure compliance with end-use conditions, and maintain detailed records.
* **Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) and Inter-Ministerial Working Group (IMWG):**
* Impact: Responsible for reviewing GAEIS applications, monitoring compliance, and ensuring adherence to export regulations.
* Action Required: Establish processes for efficient application review, track post-shipment reporting, and address any violations of the policy.
* **Entities in the Export Supply Chain (Buyers, Consignees, End-Users, Intermediaries):**
* Impact: Required to provide End-User Certificates (EUCs) and ensure the items are used only for the declared purposes.
* Action Required: Accurately complete and sign EUCs, comply with any verification requests, and ensure the items are not diverted for unauthorized uses.
Key Entities Referenced
Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT): The agency responsible for making amendments to the Handbook of Procedures and issuing General Authorizations for Export of Information Security items.
Foreign Trade Policy (FTP) 2023: The governing policy under which the Directorate General of Foreign Trade exercises its powers.
Handbook of Procedures (HBP) 2023: A document related to the Foreign Trade Policy, specifically Chapter 10, which is amended by this public notice. Para 10.15II is particularly relevant.
General Authorisation for Export of Information Security items (GAEIS): A onetime license for the export of Information Security items under SCOMET Category 8A5 Part 2, subject to specific conditions.
SCOMET Category 8A5 Part 2: A specific category of items related to Information Security, the export of which is governed by this public notice.
Inter Ministerial Working Group (IMWG): The body responsible for reviewing and examining applications for the issuance of General Authorisation for Export of Information Security items.
End User Certificate (EUC): A required document from entities involved in the supply chain, including the buyer, consignee, and end-user.
FT D R Act, 1992: Act under which action will be taken against the exporter for any misdeclaration.