The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) has introduced an important amendment under Para 4.12 (vi) of the Handbook of Procedures (HBP) 2023. This change provides extended validity for ad-hoc norms under the Advance Authorisation Scheme, offering greater certainty to exporters.

Nature of Update

This is an amendment focused on extending the validity timeline of norms approved by the Norms Committee.

What Has Changed?

Previously, ad-hoc norms ratified on or after 01 April 2015 were valid up to 31 March 2026.

Under the revised provision, these norms will now remain valid until 31 March 2028.

Key Highlights

• Ad-hoc norms ratified on or after 01.04.2015 are now valid till 31.03.2028
• Applicable to Advance Authorisations issued under Para 4.07 of HBP
• Exporters can continue using these norms for repeat authorisations
• Exception applies where:
  • The Norms Committee has specifically restricted reuse
  • The items fall under Appendix 4P

Practical Impact on Businesses

Greater predictability
Exporters can plan production and exports with more confidence due to extended validity.

Reduced procedural burden
The need to approach the Norms Committee repeatedly is minimized.

Faster processing
Repeat authorisations based on existing norms can be processed more efficiently.

Lower compliance costs
Fewer approvals translate into reduced administrative and transaction costs.

Advisory Note

Businesses should review their existing approvals and identify opportunities to utilize previously ratified norms within the extended validity period. It is also important to verify whether any restriction on repeat usage has been specified by the Norms Committee.

Preface Consulting Perspective

This amendment is a practical step toward improving ease of doing business in the export ecosystem. By extending the validity period, DGFT has addressed a key operational concern for exporters relying on ad-hoc norms.

A structured review of current authorisations can help businesses fully benefit from this change.