The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) has amended para 10.16 of the Handbook of Procedures (HBP) 2023 to widen the scope of the General Authorization for Export of Chemicals (GAEC). Under the revised guidelines, exporters of SCOMET items in Categories 1C, 1D, 1E, 3D001, and 3D004 (excluding software and technology) are required to submit an online application to ANF-10A.
One significant update now comprises the export or re-export of chemicals listed in Schedule 10(N) to the specific country mentioned therein. Moreover, under a new clause (10.16(A) (I) (b)), exporters intending to ship to a non-listed country need to specify those destinations for consideration. If available, exporters can also submit an Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) Certificate or a Status Holder Certificate.
This amendment, effective immediately, facilitates the controlled and transparent export of sensitive chemical items while growing eligible destinations under the GAEC framework.