India exempts SEZ, EOU units from synthetic fabric MIP, adds new field in eBRC for services exports

India’s Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) has exempted advance authorisation holders, export-oriented units (EOUs), and special economic zone (SEZ) units from the minimum import price (MIP) condition on certain synthetic knitted fabrics. The MIP currently stands at $3.5 per kg. The exemption allows these entities to import the specified fabrics without being bound by the pricing threshold, easing access to raw materials for export-linked manufacturing.

In a separate update, the DGFT announced the introduction of a new field ‘Mode of Export of Services in the eBRC (Electronic Bank Realisation Certificate) format. Effective for documents generated from May 1, this addition aims to improve the accuracy and detail of services export data.

The field will capture the mode of export based on four WTO-defined categories under GATS: cross-border supply, consumption abroad, commercial presence, and presence of natural persons.

As per DGFT this reform increases data transparency and brings India’s data reporting standards in line with international trade practices. The eBRC, a crucial document for exporters, confirms receipt of foreign currency for service transactions and helps validate trade performance.