DGFT 2025 Updates: Key Changes for Advance Authorization License & EPCG Authorization Licence Holders

The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) has started off 2025 by implementing a number of initiatives and reforms to support Indian exporters and importers. The reforms are concentrated into two of the most prominent scheme in India’s foreign trade policy: the Advance Authorization License (some may refer to it as Advance Authorisation) and the EPCG Authorisation License (some may refer to it as EPCG Authorisation).

The reforms are a complicated array of digitalisation, effective time extensions, and simpler compliance processes, all intended to reduce costs, save time and ensure that businesses remain competitive on the global market.

This article provides you with a summary of the reforms and provides guidance on how your business can take advantage of them.

Advance Authorization License — More Flexibility, Less Paperwork

The Advance Authorization License is an important government scheme under which businesses can import duty-free inputs needed for exports manufactured goods. The 2025 reforms only enhance the appeal of the Advance Authorisation scheme:

1. Digital-First Amendments

Filling out forms and waiting long periods of time are no longer necessary. Detailed changes, such as product specifications, quantity, or export obligation changes, can now be amended via the DGFT online portal. This provides more approvals, greater transparency, and the capability to track the approval process in real time.

2. RoDTEP Assured

One of the most awaited developments – plans of exports made under the Advance Authorization License will once again be eligible for benefits from RoDTEP (Remission of Duties and Taxes on Export Products). Meaning exporters can recover certain duties and taxes – meaning more profitable exports.

3. More Time for Export Objectives

12 months to validly import under the license. 18 months to fulfill export obligations.

These timelines work to ease matching supply production with market demand.

4. Better Customs Compliance

DGFT makes the point that any amendments made out of the Advance Authorization License, should be within customs compliance – lessening the risk of shipment moratoriums, penalties, and open compliance disputes.

 While downsizing is an unfortunate situation for many workers, perhaps you can use this time to take care of yourself and your family’s health! You may concern yourself with the economy, politics, etc. but I think only your health and happiness can determine your future. Take the time to enjoy your family or face to face meetings! What if you learned something valuable in real-time!

In the meantime, perhaps you start volunteering or training for your next endeavour. I know you are more than capable!

Use the time spent worrying about your job to take positive and productive actions for yourself and family. Think of it as a personal sabbatical! Take care of each other and practice excellence!

Ways to Leverage These Benefits

Regardless of whether you have an Advance Authorization License or an EPCG Authorization License, being proactive will help you maximize the updated policies in 2025:

Keep the DGFT Portal Good to Go – Ensure your credentials are updated for smooth and timely online submissions.

Track Export Obligations – Make tracking your progress a regular practice to avert penalties.

Claim All Incentives – Don’t leave RoDTEP benefits on the table.

Schedule Your Imports in a Coordinated Manner – Use your extended periods to balance the timing to the intake with your operational needs.

Co-ordinate Your Departments – Ensure customs, finance, and logistics are coordinated to avoid mismatches in paperwork.