Centre extends customs duty exemption on critical petrochemical imports

Representational Image (IANS)


The Centre has extended the full Customs Duty exemption on imports of critical petrochemical products by another 15 days, till July 15, 2026, as it seeks to ensure an uninterrupted supply of key industrial inputs amid lingering disruptions in global supply chains caused by the conflict in West Asia.

The exemption, which was earlier scheduled to end on June 30, was initially introduced as a temporary and targeted relief measure to address supply constraints and ease cost pressures on downstream industries.

According to the Ministry of Finance, the extension has been granted as the situation in West Asia is gradually normalising, allowing for a smooth and non-disruptive transition for industries dependent on petrochemical feedstock. The list of products eligible for the exemption remains unchanged.

It said the relief measure was introduced after Indian petroleum companies were asked to prioritise the production of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), which affected the domestic availability of certain petrochemical products. The temporary waiver on import duty was aimed at ensuring sufficient supplies in the domestic market during this period.

The Customs Duty exemption is expected to continue benefiting a wide range of sectors that rely on petrochemical feedstock and intermediates, including plastics, packaging, textiles, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, automotive components and other manufacturing industries.

The government said the measure would also help reduce input costs for manufacturers and provide relief to consumers of finished products by supporting price stability.

The Centre reiterated its commitment to supporting India’s manufacturing sector while ensuring the availability of critical industrial raw materials during periods of global supply chain disruption.