Reuters today quoted two Indian government officials as saying that India will postpone its import license requirements for laptops and tablets. One of the officials, who requested anonymity, said in an interview that the plan will be delayed by a year compared with the original plan, and then the government will consider whether to implement a licensing system.
According to reports, this move marks a shift in previous policies after industry complaints that this move may hit companies such as Apple and Samsung. India’s electronics ministry is now proposing to streamline import registration procedures, according to officials with direct knowledge of the discussions. However, India’s electronics ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
The new “import management system” will require companies to obtain “registration certificates” instead of “licenses” as previously planned while importing laptops, tablets and PCs, one of the officials said – India’s electronics department said at a meeting on Friday The recommendation was conveyed to industry officials at a meeting.
It was previously reported that in order to promote local manufacturing, India announced early last month the implementation of licensing requirements for imported laptops, tablets and personal computers, effective immediately.
India’s previous regulations allowed companies to freely import products such as laptops. After the new regulations take effect, companies need to obtain special licenses if they want to continue selling these imported products in India.
Industry executives said that India’s implementation of the import licensing system means extending the waiting time for each product to enter the Indian market, and it is especially necessary to consider applying in advance to meet sales demand during the festival.
On August 5, due to pressure from many parties, the Indian government announced that it would postpone the import licensing measures for laptops and tablets, which will take effect on November 1 this year.
Manufacturers can continue to import laptops, tablets, PCs and server equipment until October 31 without applying for additional licenses.
