DGFT amends diamond trading rules and sets sugar export quota

The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) has issued new regulations regarding rough diamond trading and sugar exports.

Under an amendment to the Foreign Trade Policy 2023, the DGFT has revised the eligibility framework for foreign entities operating within Special Notified Zones (SNZs). Eligible foreign companies, including diamond miners, sightholders, brokers, and auction entities, may now import, auction, sell, and re-export rough diamonds on a consignment or outright basis within these zones under Customs supervision.

Additionally, the DGFT has allocated a 5,841-tonne sugar export quota to the European Union for the 2026-27 period. This allocation, covering October 2026 to September 2027, falls under the tariff rate quota (TRQ) and is classified as ‘free’ exports. The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) will serve as the implementing agency for this quota.