The Indian government suddenly decided to ban inbound shipments of laptops and tablets without a license, and Samsung is among the major brands that have adhered to the new rule. Apple and HP are also among the big names that have stopped the import of laptops and tablets, just like Samsung.
According to a Bloomberg report, Indian regulators made a surprise announcement making a license mandatory for the import of electronics, from small tablets to PCs. Although it may look like a sudden announcement, laptop makers were bracing for government measures as the Indian government wants to reduce reliance on imports and boost local production.
Import curbs for laptops and tablets in India will come into effect on November 1, 2023
Electronic companies were hoping for a buffer period and not such an all-of-a-sudden decision. Noticeably, after the import ban, Samsung temporarily stopped imports of laptops and tablets, but the government has now delayed the ban. Since this decision caught the majority of the electronic makers off guard, the Indian government gave brands a breather, and India’s DGFT (Directorate General of Foreign Trade) issued a new order saying companies can import electronic goods (laptops, tablets, and other PCs) without a license until October 31, 2023.
The new curbs will come into effect starting November 1, 2023. The Indian government is simplifying the process of applying for licenses, which could be approved in as little as a day. Moreover, officials are helping companies clear out the shipments already in transit. This announcement is part of a broader state push and vision of Indian PM Narendra Modi to boost local production of electronic devices and create a world-class manufacturing industry in India.
