India has lifted port restrictions on the export of key leather categories, including finished, wet blue, and El tanned leather, a move welcomed by exporters. Simultaneously, import checks have been imposed on low-cost cabinet hinges to protect domestic industry.
The Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India, has lifted port restrictions on the export of finished leather, wet blue leather, and El tanned leather. The decision, effective immediately from May 27, 2025, is being seen as a significant boost to leather exporters, particularly those operating from Tamil Nadu—a major leather manufacturing hub.
The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), which regulates India’s export-import policies, announced that leather exporters can now ship these products from any port, easing previous logistical constraints. Industry leaders have welcomed the move, stating it will reduce costs and improve delivery efficiency.
Simultaneously, the government imposed import restrictions on cabinet hinges priced below INR 280 per kilogram (approx. USD 3.35/kg). The new regulation aims to control the influx of low-priced imported hardware, which has adversely affected local manufacturers in recent years.
Officials from the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) stated that these policy shifts aim to balance export competitiveness and protect the interests of domestic manufacturers.
The dual policy approach comes amid broader trade reforms to bolster India’s global competitiveness while shielding domestic industries from unfair pricing tactics.