Govt Extends Export Relief Till March 31

March 17, 2026

New Delhi: The government on Tuesday extended relief measures for export cargo till March 31 as disruptions continue in the Strait of Hormuz due to the ongoing conflict involving Iran. The move aims to support exporters facing delays and logistical challenges in the Gulf region.

Expanded Facilities & Easier Rules

The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) has issued a fresh standard operating procedure under the Customs Act. The updated guidelines expand international transshipment facilities for less than container load (LCL) cargo to all notified ports and airports across India, instead of just select ports like Chennai and Cochin.

The measures also allow temporary unloading and storage of diverted liquid and bulk cargo within customs areas, helping reduce congestion and manage rerouted shipments. Containers returning to Indian ports can now be unloaded without filing standard import documents like a Bill of Entry, though customs will verify shipping documents and seals.

Trade Impact & Global Context

The disruption has major implications for India’s trade, especially with the Gulf Cooperation Council, which includes countries like Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain, the UAE and Oman. The bloc is India’s largest trading partner, with bilateral trade reaching $178.56 billion in FY25.

The Strait of Hormuz, a key route connecting the Persian Gulf to the Arabian Sea, has been affected due to the ongoing conflict involving Iran, Israel and the United States, leading to significant shipping disruptions.