DGFT Restricts Penicillin, 6-APA & Amoxicillin Imports

The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), through Notification S.O. 429(E), has amended the import policy under ITC (HS) 2022, Schedule-I, in line with the Foreign Trade Policy (FTP) 2023. The amendment applies to Penicillin G-Potassium (ITC HS 29411010), 6-APA (29411050), and Amoxicillin Trihydrate (29411030) falling under Chapter 29.

As per the revised policy, imports of these pharmaceutical intermediates are now classified as “Restricted” if the CIF value falls below prescribed thresholds Rs 2,216/kg for Penicillin G, Rs 3,405/kg for 6-APA, and Rs 2,733/kg for Amoxicillin. The restriction is effective immediately and will remain in force for one year from the date of notification.

However, the DGFT has provided specific exemptions. The restriction does not apply to 100% Export Oriented Units (EOUs), SEZ units, or imports under the Advance Authorisation Scheme, subject to the condition that such imported inputs are not diverted to the Domestic Tariff Area (DTA).

This move aims to protect domestic API manufacturers, address undervalued imports, and strengthen India’s pharmaceutical supply chain.