India Restricts Imports of Computers

India this week imposed import licensing requirements on certain electronics, including laptops, tablets, certain computers and other “automatic data processing machines” and “processing units,” the country’s Directorate General of Foreign Trade said. Certain exemptions are available, including for certain shipments sent via post or courier and for imports intended for research and development, repair and reexport, and other reasons. The restrictions took effect Aug. 3.

India previously allowed those items to be imported freely. A senior government official told The Indian Express that the restrictions are meant to “push companies to manufacture locally” and strengthen its domestic electronics industry.