Overview

• The DGFT moved specified unstudded silver jewellery from the free list to restricted with immediate effect, in force until March 31, 2026.
• Importing these items now requires a government licence under the restricted category.
• Commerce Ministry reviews found a sudden rise in such imports in recent months, including from Thailand, according to people familiar.
• Officials say surveys indicated rules-of-origin conditions for ASEAN duty concessions were being circumvented.
• Sources report Thai shipments climbed roughly tenfold to about 40 tonnes and its share rose to 98%, while the products are described as retail-focused with limited industry disruption expected.