DGFT caps duty-free gold imports at 100 kg per licence, tightens Advance Authorisation rules
Government imposes 100 kg per licence ceiling on duty-free gold imports under Advance Authorisation, mandates physical inspections, fortnightly CA-certified reports, and 50% export obligation before reissue. Follows duty hike to 15% from 6%. Jewellery council warns of grey market and smuggling risks amid $71.98 billion gold imports in 2025-26.
What happened
DGFT caps duty-free gold imports at 100 kg per Advance Authorisation licence, mandates physical inspections, fortnightly CA-certified reports, and 50% export
Key facts
- 100 kg per licence
- import duty 15% from 6%
- 50% export obligation threshold
- $71.98 billion gold imports 2025-26
- 721.03 tonnes
- Switzerland 40%
- UAE 16%
- South Africa 10%
Why this matters
Smaller exporters squeezed by licence caps and stricter compliance create consolidation openings—scout sub-scale Advance Authorisation holders and integrated refiners that can absorb fragmented export obligations.