India has announced a set of reforms aimed at cutting red tape and simplifying its import quality inspection regime, responding to concerns raised by the United States over what it has described as burdensome regulatory requirements.
The move comes as New Delhi and Washington continue negotiations on a bilateral trade agreement, which India hopes could lead to relief from a 50% tariff imposed by US President Donald Trump on some key Indian exports. The tariffs were introduced as a punitive measure linked to India’s purchases of Russian oil.
According to a statement from the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, the reforms will streamline import quality checks by reducing paperwork, shortening approval timelines and limiting the number of inspections required for quality clearances. The measures are intended to make compliance less onerous for importers while maintaining product standards.
Jaxay Shah, chairman of the Quality Council of India, said the reforms were designed to speed up processes and lower turnaround times through the use of technology-driven systems. He added that the changes would make quality assurance mechanisms faster, more transparent and more accessible for enterprises, institutions and citizens.
The government has positioned the overhaul as part of a broader effort to improve the ease of doing business and address long-standing trade partner concerns, as it seeks to advance negotiations with the US and strengthen its global trade relationships.
