Tech Giants Voice Concerns Over India's New Import Regulations For PCs, Laptops & Servers

New Delhi, Aug 21 (KNN) Prominent players in the tech industry, such as Apple and Intel have jointly written to the US Department of Commerce expressing their disagreement with India's recent rules on importing PCs, laptops, and servers.

Eight major American trade groups, including the Information Technology Industry Council, the National Association of Manufacturers, and the Semiconductor Industry Association, collectively urged the US government to encourage India to reconsider its policy.

According to IANS, the industry leaders emphasized that these limitations have the potential to cause significant trade disruptions, impede the process of integrating India into worldwide supply networks, and adversely affect businesses and consumers in both nations. They emphasized that any barriers to trade could impede the flow of US-manufactured computers and electronics into India.

According to the directive issued by India’s Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), effective from November 1, 2023, a valid license is required for the import clearance of restricted goods.

The primary aim of the government is to boost domestic manufacturing and exports rather than banning imports.

As per reports, major consumer electronics firms like HP, Apple, and Dell have urged for an extension of the November 1 license deadline.They expressed the need for additional time to establish manufacturing units in accordance with the new guidelines.

As of November 1, importing laptops, computers, and related items without a license will not be permissible. The government’s rationale for these restrictions is grounded in security concerns and the promotion of the ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ (Self-reliant India) initiative.  (KNN Bureau)