DGFT Amends Import Policy for Peas: What Indian Importers Must Know in 2026

Breaking Alert: The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) has issued a critical notification amending the import policy for peas, impacting every Indian business importing this essential agricultural commodity. If you're an importer, trader, or food processor dealing with peas, this regulatory change demands your immediate attention.

While BIS certification for imported electronics governs technical standards for electronic devices under the Bureau of Indian Standards, pea imports operate under entirely different regulatory frameworks. Understanding these sector-specific distinctions is crucial for maintaining compliance in India's complex import landscape.

BIS Certification for Imported Electronics vs. Pea Import Regulations

BIS certification for imported electronics mandates strict conformity assessment and safety testing for electronic products under the Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS). However, agricultural commodities like peas fall under the jurisdiction of DGFT and phytosanitary authorities rather than the Bureau of Indian Standards.

This fundamental difference means that while electronics importers must obtain BIS registration before customs clearance, pea importers must navigate DGFT notifications and Plant Quarantine requirements. Both regulatory pathways require meticulous documentation, but the compliance criteria differ significantly based on product categories.

What Happened

On 8 December 2024, the DGFT issued Notification No. 59/2015-2020, amending the import policy for peas under the ITC (HS) Code 0713.10. This notification modifies the existing import policy conditions, which directly affects how Indian businesses can import peas into the country.

The amendment comes under the Foreign Trade Policy 2023, which continues to govern India's import-export framework through 2026.

The DGFT, operating under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, has the authority to regulate, restrict, or prohibit imports and exports under Section 3 of the Foreign Trade (Development & Regulation) Act, 1992.

Why It Matters

Peas are a critical import commodity for India, with significant implications for:

• Food Processing Industry: Peas are a key ingredient in frozen foods, snacks, and ready-to-eat products
• Animal Feed Sector: Used as a protein source in livestock nutrition
• Retail and Distribution: Essential for meeting domestic demand, especially during off-seasons

Any change in import policy affects:

• Import licensing requirements
• Customs duty applicability
• Documentation and compliance procedures
• Supply chain planning and inventory management

Watch Out: Policy amendments often come with transitional provisions. Importers must verify whether existing import orders or shipments in transit are affected by the new notification.

What You Should Do Now

1. Review the Official Notification: Download and study Notification No. 59/2015-2020 from the DGFT website. Pay close attention to the specific amendments and any annexures.
2. Verify Your HS Code Classification: Ensure your pea imports are correctly classified under ITC (HS) Code 0713.10. Misclassification can lead to customs disputes and penalties.
3. Check Import Licensing Status: Determine if the amendment affects your Import Export Code (IEC) registration or requires additional licenses/authorisations.
4. Consult Your Customs Broker: Share the notification with your CHA (Customs House Agent) to ensure compliance procedures are updated immediately.
5. Review Pending Shipments: If you have peas currently in transit or orders placed, verify whether they fall under the old or new policy regime.

Pro Tip: Subscribe to DGFT's notification alerts and check the Indian Trade Portal regularly. Policy amendments in agricultural commodities are frequent, and staying ahead prevents costly compliance surprises.

Key Update

The Foreign Trade Policy 2023 remains in effect through 2026, with periodic amendments like this one shaping the import landscape.

Importers should note that agricultural commodities, including peas, often face additional scrutiny due to:

• Food security concerns
• Domestic farmer protection policies
• Phytosanitary requirements under the Plant Quarantine Order, 2003

For the complete regulatory framework, refer to:

• DGFT Notification No. 59/2015-2020
• Foreign Trade Policy 2023
• Plant Quarantine Order, 2003

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Do pea imports require BIS certification for imported electronics?

No. Peas are agricultural commodities regulated by DGFT and phytosanitary authorities. BIS certification for imported electronics applies specifically to electronic products under the Compulsory Registration Scheme, not to agricultural goods.

Q2: What is the difference between BIS certification for imported electronics and pea import regulations?

BIS certification for imported electronics ensures technical safety and quality standards for electronic devices through the Bureau of Indian Standards. In contrast, pea imports require compliance with DGFT notifications, HS Code 0713.10 classification, and the Plant Quarantine Order, 2003.

Q3: Which products require BIS certification in India?

Electronic products such as mobile phones, laptops, and IT equipment require BIS certification for imported electronics under the CRS scheme. Agricultural products like peas require FSSAI clearance and Plant Quarantine certificates instead.

Q4: How does DGFT Notification No. 59/2015-2020 affect existing import licenses?

The notification amends specific conditions for pea imports under HS Code 0713.10. Importers must verify whether their existing IEC registrations or pending shipments fall under the revised policy framework or transitional provisions.

Q5: Where can I find updates on BIS certification requirements for electronics?

While this notification concerns peas, electronics importers should monitor the Bureau of Indian Standards website for BIS certification for imported electronics updates, which operate separately from DGFT's agricultural commodity notifications.

Stay compliant, stay competitive. For expert assistance with DGFT notifications, customs clearance, and import documentation, explore our Import Consultation Services.

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