Big relief for Industry as Govt extends customs duty waiver amid West Asia crisis

The ongoing conflict between the US and Iran has left the West Asian region, including Strait of Hormuz, tense since February 28, 2026. Photo: Unsplash

IBNS-CMEDIA: The Indian government on Tuesday extended full customs duty exemption on imports of critical petrochemical products until July 15, providing temporary and targeted relief amid the ongoing conflict in West Asia.

In an official statement, the government said the exemption was introduced to ensure adequate availability of petrochemicals in the domestic market, as Indian petroleum companies had been directed to focus on the production of LPG during the period of disruption.

“As the situation is gradually normalising, to ensure a smooth and non-disruptive transition for the affected sectors, it has been decided to extend the said exemption by a further period of 15 days, that is, till 15th July 2026,” the statement said.

The government further clarified that the list of products covered under the exemption remains unchanged from the earlier notification.

Reiterating its support for domestic industry, the statement said the move is expected to benefit sectors dependent on petrochemical feedstock and intermediates, including plastics, packaging, textiles, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, automotive components, and other manufacturing segments. It also added that the exemption would help ease costs for consumers of finished products.

India, which remains heavily dependent on imports of fertilisers and petroleum products, has been facing supply chain concerns due to disruptions in shipping routes linked to the West Asia conflict.