The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs has introduced a one-time relief measure allowing eligible manufacturing units in SEZs to sell goods in the Domestic Tariff Area (Indian markets domestically) at concessional customs duty rates.
- The relief will be effective from April 1, 2026, to March 31, 2027 to help SEZ manufacturers cope with global trade disruptions.
About SEZs:
- Overview: They are specifically delineated, duty-free enclaves treated as foreign territory for trade operations and customs duties.
- Current Status: India has 368 notified SEZs (Feb 2026).
- Legal Provisions: SEZs are governed by the SEZ Act of 2005 and SEZ Rules of 2006, which provide a simplified regulatory framework.
Significance of SEZs
- Export Growth: Generating ₹11.70 lakh crore by December 2025.
- Investment Hubs: Attracted ₹7.86 lakh crore in combined domestic and foreign investments as of December 2025.
- Job Creation: Over 31.73 lakh jobs by December 2025.
- Infrastructure Development: Including Mundra Port, Kandla Port, Sri City, and GIFT City.
- Tech & Innovation: Accelerated high-value manufacturing, research, and technological adoption, particularly in the electronics and semiconductor sectors.
- Global Competitiveness: Established India as a stable and reliable destination for international trade and investment.
