The government is considering reviewing its import authorisation regime for laptops, personal desktops, tablets, and other IT hardware. The current regime, implemented in October 2023, is set to expire on September 30.

Despite the need for authorisation, imports of these items from China have remained relatively high, accounting for approximately 60 per cent of total imports in 2023-24. The government is evaluating whether to continue the current system, implement stricter checks, or revert to a free import regime.

Overall imports of these items saw a decline of 3.4 per cent in 2023-24 to $8.4 billion compared with imports worth $8.7 billion in the previous fiscal. China’s share continued to be about 60 per cent.

Industry sources indicate that the ministry of electronics and IT (MeitY) is closely examining import data and consulting with industry stakeholders to determine the most appropriate action.

“The government is carefully considering the impact of the import authorisation regime on the availability of IT hardware and the overall health of the domestic industry,” said a government official.

The government’s decision to impose import authorisation was primarily driven by concerns about supply chain resilience and national security. However, some countries, such as the United States, have raised concerns at the World Trade Organisation (WTO).

The US Trade Representative, Katherine Tai, earlier this year emphasised the need for transparency and certainty in India’s import management system.