India to Implement Deferred Customs Duty Scheme for Eligible Manufacturers from April 2026

The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) will implement the Eligible Manufacturer Importers (EMI) scheme from April 1, 2026, allowing qualified manufacturers to defer customs duty payments on imported goods. This facility, valid until March 31, 2028, aims to ease working capital pressures and improve liquidity by enabling monthly duty payments under existing rules. Eligibility requires compliance with Customs and GST laws, turnover, financial strength, and track record. Existing AEO-T1 entities, including MSMEs, may also apply. The scheme encourages compliance and progression to higher AEO statuses, supporting domestic manufacturing and export growth.