FTP –Indian Kabuli Chickpeas under FPS
CLARIFICATION has been sought in respect of eligibility of benefit under Focus Product Scheme of FTP(2009-14) to the Indian Kabuli Chickpeas. Export of pulses is prohibited. However, export of Kabuli Chana is exempted from the ban. It was noted that the description of export items, in this case, is Indian Kabuli Chickpeas whereas exemption from ban is on export is for "Kabuli Chana?. It was also noted that Customs Authorities are allowing this item for export without any authorisation from DGFT.
The matter was discussed in detail by the Policy Interpretation Committee (PIC) and after deliberations it was decided that:
(i) Kabuli Chana and Indian Kabuli Chickpeas are the same item. Hence, Indian Kabuli Chickpeas is also exempted from ban on export.
(ii) Since Kabuli Chana is exempted from ban on export, Indian Kabuli Chickpeas cannot be treated as prohibited or restricted item.
(iii) Chapter 7 of ITC(HS) Code, list items under the Heading Edible vegetables and certain ‘Roots and "Tubers?. Therefore, all items listed under Chapter 7 of ITC HS have to be either edible vegetables or certain roots or Tubers. The committee noted that Kabuli chickpeas are neither "Roots" nor "Tubers". The HS code for chickpea is 07132000 which is under subheading "Direct leguminous vegetables, shelled whether or not skinned or spilt".
So, the DGFT has clarified that Indian Kabuli chickpeas is eligible under Focus Product Scheme (2009-2014). All RAs are advised to allow FPS benefit on export of Indian Kabuli chickpeas and dispose of all pending applications accordingly.
DGFT Trade Notice No.10/2015-20., Dated: December 10, 2015