ITC (HS) 2022 Update: Import from Bangladesh Limited to Designated Ports.

The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) has notified an important update concerning the import of textile-related goods from Bangladesh to India. Through Notification No. 21/2025-26 dated 27th June 2025, a new provision has been added under the General Notes Regarding Import Policy of ITC (HS) 2022, Schedule 1 (Import Policy), placing port restrictions on select items.

This notification is issued under the powers conferred by Section 3 and Section 5 of the Foreign Trade (Development & Regulation) Act, 1992, read with Paragraphs 1.02 and 2.01 of the Foreign Trade Policy (FTP) 2023, and is in continuation of DGFT Notification No. 07/2025-26 dated 17.05.2025.

What Has Changed?

The new amendment inserts Sub-Para 2 under Para 19(1) of the General Notes Regarding Import Policy. It specifies that imports of certain jute and flax textile items from Bangladesh shall be allowed only through Nhava Sheva Seaport. Imports of these goods through any land port on the India-Bangladesh border are prohibited.

However, this restriction does not apply to goods transiting through India to Nepal or Bhutan. Importantly, the re-export of these goods to India from Nepal/Bhutan remains prohibited.

Goods Covered Under the Restriction

Below is the list of items covered under this port restriction, along with their HS codes and applicable policy condition:

Transit Through India to Nepal/Bhutan: An Exception

While the port restrictions are strict for direct imports, the DGFT has exempted goods that are in transit to Nepal or Bhutan through India. However, stakeholders must ensure that such goods are not re-exported back to India, which would violate the import condition.

Advisory to Officers and Stakeholders

The Board has directed that officers under respective jurisdictions be duly sensitized about this amendment. Trade compliance professionals, customs brokers, and importers are advised to verify port of entry and origin compliance strictly before initiating import procedures.

Any difficulties or operational challenges encountered in the implementation of these provisions may be brought to the notice of the Board for further resolution.

Conclusion

This port restriction policy is a significant step in regulating sensitive imports and streamlining trade practices. Importers dealing with jute and flax-based products from Bangladesh must realign their logistics and supply chains in accordance with this policy to avoid customs delays or rejections.