India Widens PSIC Exemption for Metal Scrap to More Ports and ICD Clearance

Catch-up: the notice is dated 21 October 2026.

What changed

India's Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) issued Public Notice 35/2026-27 on 21 October 2026. It amends paragraph 2.51(d)(v)(iv) of the Handbook of Procedures, 2023 on the Pre-Shipment Inspection Certificate (PSIC) for imports of metallic waste and scrap.

Shredded and unshredded metal scrap from the USA, UK, Canada, New Zealand, Australia and the EU is exempt from a PSIC if three conditions are met: (a) a supplier or scrap yard certificate states it contains no radioactive materials or explosives; (b) it enters through Chennai, Tuticorin, Kandla, JNPT, Mumbai, Krishnapatnam, Mundra, Kattupalli, Hazira, Kamarajar or Adani Gangavaram, with radiation and explosive checks at the port; and (c) it is not trans-shipped through these countries/regions.

The old text named eight ports. The new text adds Hazira, Kamarajar and Adani Gangavaram, by our comparison of the two columns. It also allows clearance for home consumption at an Inland Container Depot (ICD), if the conditions are met at the port of entry and proof is given at the ICD.

Outside the exemption, the general rule stays: metallic waste and scrap imports need a PSIC from the country of origin.

Effective date

The notice does not state a separate effective date.

Who it affects

Indian importers of metal scrap, scrap suppliers in the six named origins, port and ICD operators, and customs brokers.

What importers should do

• Confirm origin and entry port meet the conditions before shipping without a PSIC.
• Get the supplier or scrap yard certificate for each consignment.
• For ICD clearance, keep proof that the port-of-entry conditions were met.

Source: DGFT, Public Notice No. 35/2026-27, 21 October 2026.