Govt Invites Applications for Vehicle Imports Under India-UK CETA Quota: ANI

The government has invited applications for importing passenger vehicles and certain goods transport vehicles from the United Kingdom under the tariff rate quota (TRQ) mechanism provided in the India-UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA), opening a two-week window for eligible importers, ANI reported.

According to a gazette notification issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), applications for allocation of the quota for calendar year 2026 will be accepted from July 21 to August 4, 2026.

The notification said the DGFT invites applications for TRQ allocation under the India-UK CETA for the current calendar year on the specified products during the stated window, according to ANI.

The first phase of the quota covers 9,316 vehicles, with concessional customs duties available under the trade agreement. Of the total allocation, 2,329 units have been earmarked for passenger vehicles with engine capacity of up to 1,500 cc. Another 2,329 units have been allotted for mid-segment vehicles, while 4,658 units have been reserved for higher engine-capacity or premium passenger vehicles, which will attract a concessional customs duty of 30 per cent under the agreement.

A separate quota has also been provided for certain completely built goods transport vehicles, ANI reported.

Under the India-UK CETA, India has agreed to allow the import of 20,000 UK-built vehicles at preferential duty rates in the first year of the agreement, with the current allocation constituting the first phase.

To be eligible, applicants must submit a pre-purchase agreement issued by the concerned UK-based Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) specifying the number of vehicles to be supplied during the relevant TRQ year.

The DGFT said imports under the quota will be governed by the operational procedures prescribed under the Foreign Trade Policy, 2023, ANI reported.