The Indian government has officially extended its crucial export incentive program, the Remission of Duties and Taxes on Exported Products (RoDTEP) scheme, until March 31, 2026. This announcement has been met with significant relief and appreciation from exporters, who see it as a vital step in reducing market uncertainties and providing stability amidst challenging global economic conditions.
Introduced in 2021, the RoDTEP scheme plays a pivotal role in supporting India’s export sector. It is designed to refund various embedded central, state, and local duties, taxes, and levies that are incurred by exporters but are not typically reimbursed under other existing incentive programs. This helps ensure that Indian goods remain competitive in international markets by offsetting these often-hidden costs.
Initially set to expire earlier this year on February 5, the scheme faced a period of uncertainty. However, intensive advocacy from the exporting community led to its reinstatement in May for specific categories, including those operating under Advance Authorization (AA) holders, Export-Oriented Units (EOUs), and businesses located in Special Economic Zones (SEZs).
Confirming the broader extension, the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) released a notification on Tuesday, September 30, 2025. The notification explicitly states that “The RoDTEP Scheme shall remain in force and be applicable to exports made from Domestic Tariff Area (DTA) units, Advance Authorisation (AA) holders, Special Economic Zone (SEZ) units, and Export Oriented Units (EOUs) up to 31.03.2026.”
It is important to note, however, that the DGFT also clarified that the scheme’s operations would continue within the existing budgetary allocations.
S.C. Ralhan, President of the Federation of Indian Export Organisations (FIEO), lauded the government’s decision. “The timely extension of RoDTEP has successfully alleviated the uncertainty that was a significant concern for the exporting community,” Ralhan stated.
He further emphasized the timing of this intervention: “This measure arrives at a crucial moment when exporters are contending with various global challenges. It delivers essential policy continuity, enabling them to strategize and plan their export activities with renewed confidence and a clearer outlook.”