Govt restricts import of laptops, tablets with immediate effect

The Centre has imposed restrictions on the import of laptops, tablets, and personal computers with immediate effect. In a notification, issued on Thursday, the government stated that the import of these items would be allowed against a valid licence for restricted imports. However, exemption from the Import Licensing requirement is provided for the import of one laptop, tablet and all-in-one personal computer including those purchased from e-commerce portals, through post or courier. 
An exemption is also provided upto 20 items per consignment for Research and Developemnt, Testing, Repair, and return, and also where the item is an essential part of a Capital Good. By curbing imports of these devices, the government aims to reduce reliance on foreign markets and encourage the growth of local manufacturing capabilities. As a consequence of this policy change, the costs associated with importing laptops, personal computers, and tablets are expected to experience a significant decline. In the last quarter (April-June), electronics imports, which included these three items, amounted to $19.7 billion, marking a 6.25 per cent increase compared to the previous year.