India tightens regulations on gold and silver imports from UAE
New import rules curb CEPA misuse and boost compliance through stricter classifications and approved importers
India Tightens Gold and Silver Import Rules Under UAE Trade Pact to Curb Misuse and Ensure Compliance
India has imposed strict restrictions on the import of gold and silver from the United Arab Emirates (UAE), as part of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), to prevent abuse of trade privileges and improve regulatory oversight.
The new regulations will specifically apply to gold and silver in unprocessed, semi-processed and powder forms. In future, only authorized importers such as nominated agents, certified jewellers and those holding valid tariff rate quotas under CEPA will be allowed to bring these precious metals into the country.
In response to reports that certain importers were misclassifying 99% pure gold as platinum alloy in order to take advantage of lower import charges, this policy change was made. In order to close this gap, Indian authorities have created unique Harmonized System (HS) codes for different platinum, gold dore, and silver dore grades.
This ensures accurate classification and fair tariff application.
Since the signing of the India-UAE CEPA, bilateral trade has increased significantly, increasing by more than 35% from $20.88 billion in 2022 to $28.15 billion in 2024. The new import restrictions are part of India’s larger efforts to uphold revenue standards, protect trade integrity, and strengthen the legitimacy of the CEPA system.
