India Extends Gold Import TRQ Under India-UAE CEPA Till 30 September 2026: What It Means for the Bullion Market

In a significant move for India’s bullion and jewellery industry, the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) has officially extended the validity of Tariff Rate Quota (TRQ) Authorisations for the import of gold under the India-UAE Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) until 30th September 2026.

This extension, announced through Public Notice No. 18/2026-27 dated 1st July 2026, provides relief and clarity to importers, traders, and jewellers who depend on gold imports under the preferential trade agreement.

What is the TRQ for Gold Imports?

The Tariff Rate Quota (TRQ) system allows eligible importers to bring gold into India at concessional duty rates under a predefined quota. Under the India-UAE CEPA agreement, this mechanism helps Indian businesses import gold at more competitive costs, improving liquidity and price efficiency in the domestic market.

The tariff head covered under this notice is 7108, which relates specifically to gold.

What Has Changed?

According to the latest notification:

• The TRQ Authorisations issued during FY 2025-26 were originally valid until 30th June 2026.
• The DGFT has now extended this validity to 30th September 2026.
• This extension is automatic, meaning no fresh application, amendment, endorsement, or additional fee is required.

This move simplifies compliance and ensures uninterrupted gold imports for authorised traders.

Why This Extension Matters

1. Better Supply Stability

Gold demand in India remains consistently strong, especially with festive and wedding seasons approaching. This extension ensures that importers can maintain steady supply without disruption.

2. Reduced Cost Pressure

Since CEPA offers lower import duties, extending the TRQ validity allows businesses to continue benefiting from lower costs, helping them remain competitive.

3. Positive Impact on Bullion Traders

Bullion dealers and wholesalers can better manage inventory and pricing strategies with the assurance of continued import access.

4. Support for Jewellery Manufacturers

Jewellery manufacturers relying on imported gold for production can avoid supply chain uncertainty and plan purchases efficiently.

Market Impact

This decision could bring positive sentiment in the bullion market. With extended access to imported gold at concessional duty, traders may witness:

• Improved market liquidity
• More stable premiums
• Better stock planning
• Competitive retail pricing

For jewellers and investors, it could mean smoother availability and less price volatility in the short term.

Government’s Strategic Move

The extension reflects the government’s intent to support the gold and jewellery ecosystem while strengthening trade relations with the UAE under CEPA. Given the importance of gold in India’s economy and cultural landscape, such policy support plays a vital role.

Final Thoughts

The DGFT’s extension of TRQ authorisation validity till 30th September 2026 is a practical and timely decision for India’s bullion trade. It reduces administrative burden, ensures continuity in gold imports, and strengthens business confidence.

For bullion traders, jewellers, and importers, this is an important development to watch closely as it may influence supply dynamics and pricing trends over the coming months.