Trade Liberalization and Export Performance Reforms

This report covers developments in Indian trade policy, export incentives, and customs regulations from August 18 to August 25, 2026. Key findings include a significant relaxation in 'One Star Export House' status criteria and the formalization of Indian Rupee (INR) trade settlement for all major export benefits.

Key Statistics

Weekly Executive Summary

• Export Status Ease: The DGFT reduced the eligibility threshold for 'One Star Export House' status, allowing performance in any two of the three preceding years to qualify.
• INR Trade Expansion: New amendments to the Foreign Trade Policy (FTP) 2023 now treat export proceeds realized in Indian Rupees at par with freely convertible foreign currency for all incentive schemes.
• Commodity Management: The government authorized the import of 10 Lakh MT of raw sugar under a zero-duty Tariff Rate Quota (TRQ), targeting domestic supply stabilization by October 2026.
• Geopolitical Safeguards: CBIC i…