Coverage under QCO is not enough to make an item ‘restricted’ under FTP

We refer to the RBI's notification allowing extension in the time period for realisation and repatriation of full export value of goods/software/services exported from India from nine months to fifteen months from the date of export from India. I want to know the period for which this relaxation is applicable?

- TNC RAJAGOPALAN

= In my view, the relaxation is applicable for all exports where the time limit of fifteen months has not passed as on November 13, 2025 and all future exports.

We have imported certain goods that are freely importable under the FTP but covered under a quality control order. The suppliers are not registered with the Bureau of Indian Standards.

After arrival but before Customs clearance of the goods, we have obtained an advance authorization for duty free import of the imported item. We have sought the dispensation under Para 2.12 of the FTP read with DGFT Policy Circular no. 02/2025-26 dated July 22, 2025. The Customs say that these provisions do not apply for restricted items and so they cannot clear the imported items under advance authorisations. Are they correct?