Air Conditioners filled with HCFC 22 – free import allowed
DGFT has clarified that air conditioners are allowed free import under the Foreign Trade Policy. However, in case of import of Air Conditioners filled with HCFC 22 (R-22) Gas, Customs have been raising objections and asking the importers to produce import license. DGFT is in consultation with the Ministry of Environment and Forest in order to evolve a GATT compatible regulation for import of Air Conditioners. In the meanwhile Air Conditioners which have already landed and arrived but not cleared for home consumption will be treated as free and clearances will accordingly be allowed by Customs. Will the Customs allow this till CBEC issues a circular? Wait for the Board Circular.
DGFT CIRCULAR NO. 26 (RE-05)/2004-2009 Dated :September 13, 2005.