DGFT issues Immediate Restrictions on Import of Non-Refillable and Refillable Lighter Parts

The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) has imposed immediate restrictions on the import of parts for non-refillable and refillable lighters under HS Code 96139000. This action, under the Foreign Trade (Development & Regulation) Act, 1992, and the Foreign Trade Policy (FTP) 2023, reclassifies these parts as ‘Restricted’. Importers now need special authorization from DGFT to import these parts, a shift from the previous lenient regime. The rationale behind this restriction is not explicitly stated but may relate to safety concerns, quality control, or promoting domestic manufacturing under the “Make in India” initiative. Such restrictions aim to control the import of low-quality or unsafe products and encourage the use of domestically sourced materials. This change impacts the availability of components necessary for the assembly and sale of gas-fueled lighters, both refillable and non-refillable, signaling a significant shift in import policy for these items.