The government has given a big relief to companies importing laptops, personal computers and tablets. The central government has decided to extend the import limit for another year this month. However, the government's main focus is still on local manufacturing. In 2025, companies can import laptops, PCs and tablets from abroad, but the government can bring a policy to reduce imports by 5 percent in 6 months. Earlier in August 2023, the government had decided to ban the free import of laptops, PCs, tablets etc., which was not implemented later.

Promote local manufacturing

The government had taken this decision to promote local manufacturing i.e. Make in India. However, keeping in mind the interests of the industry, it was not implemented. Later, the government implemented the Import Management System in October 2023, under which IT hardware companies were made mandatory to register and disclose data related to their imports.

According to industry experts, the government may review it again in mid-2025. It is estimated that by then all brands will start production of laptops, PCs and tablets etc. in India. After the start of local manufacturing, the government will focus on gradually reducing imports. After reviewing the brand-wise demand and distribution of laptops, PCs and tablets, imports can be reduced by up to 5 percent.

Opportunity for companies

According to ET's report, the government is giving full opportunity to companies manufacturing computers, tablets and laptops etc. to reduce imports. At the same time, it is also pressurizing them to focus on local manufacturing. The government has decided to give the benefit of 0 percent import duty on laptops, PCs and tablets from January 1, 2025 to December 31, 2025. After analyzing the demand and supply in the market, the ban on imports can be implemented, which will benefit local manufacturing.