India Trade & Customs Updates: Key Changes Issued Between 06 to 12 September 2026

The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) issued two important updates during the week. These cover simplified Certificate of Origin applications and the proposed suspension of 544 Standard Input Output Norms.

Certificate of Origin Applications Get Simpler

Through Trade Notice No. 25/2026-27, DGFT introduced an Open API facility for Certificates of Origin (CoO) on the Trade Connect e-Platform.

Eligible exporters can integrate their ERP, accounting or other business systems with DGFT’s CoO system. This enables the electronic submission and exchange of CoO-related information while reducing manual intervention, duplicate data entry and the risk of errors.

The facility supports both Preferential and Non-Preferential Certificates of Origin.

Exporters seeking access must complete the prescribed onboarding process, obtain API credentials, whitelist their public IP addresses and configure digital signing within their systems.

DGFT Proposes Suspension of 544 Unused SIONs

Through Trade Notice No. 26/2026-27, DGFT proposed the suspension of 544 Standard Input Output Norms (SIONs) that remained unused under the Advance Authorisation and Duty-Free Import Authorisation schemes during the previous three financial years.

Exporters, importers, Export Promotion Councils, industry associations and other stakeholders can submit their comments within 15 days from the date of the Trade Notice.

Stakeholders seeking the retention of any listed SION should provide supporting documents, reasons for its continued requirement and details of its actual or proposed utilisation.

After reviewing the responses received within the prescribed period, DGFT may suspend the identified SIONs.

What Should Exporters Do?

Exporters should:

• Evaluate whether integration with the Trade Connect CoO platform can simplify their application process.

• Review the list of 544 SIONs proposed for suspension.

• Submit a representation within the prescribed period if any listed SION remains relevant to their operations.

Conclusion

The latest DGFT updates reflect a continued focus on digitising export processes and reviewing provisions that are no longer actively used.

Exporters should assess the operational impact of these notices and take timely action wherever required.