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In order to simplify India’s pharma foreign trade procedures, the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) has announced key amendments to Para 2.08 of the Handbook of Procedures (HBP) 2023. The update is aimed at enhancing transparency, improving digital validation, and reducing paperwork for businesses seeking an Importer-Exporter Code (IEC).
Under the revised framework, the previously required ANF-1A form has been deleted and its contents merged into a newly updated ANF-2A form, which will now serve as the consolidated application format. The change takes effect immediately.
DGFT clarified that the revised Para 2.08(c) enables real-time, online verification of applicant details through integration with records maintained by various ministries, departments, banks, and related agencies. This automated validation is expected to both speed up approvals and minimise manual scrutiny.
Applicants will still need to upload essential documents and details unless the system provides an automatic exemption during the online filing process. Importantly, provisions under Para 2.08(c)(i) and 2.08(c)(ii) remain unchanged, ensuring continuity in key eligibility requirements.
Explaining the impact of the notice, DGFT stated that the amendment formalises the fully electronic, paperless nature of IEC processing. Applicants are advised to apply or update their IEC exclusively through the DGFT portal using the “Apply for IEC” or “Update IEC” online links. No physical or scanned copies of the revised ANF-2A are to be submitted to any DGFT office.
The updated ANF-2A seeks detailed information about the applicant, including the nature of the business entity, ranging from proprietorships and partnerships to LLPs, private/public limited companies, government undertakings, societies, trusts, and foreign-registered firms operating in India. It also seeks turnover details for the past three financial years, supporting DGFT’s shift toward greater data validation and compliance monitoring.
With this amendment, the government reiterates its commitment to making India’s trade ecosystem simpler, faster, and digitally empowered, aligning with the broader vision of a modernised foreign trade policy.
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