DGFT Notification No. 26/2026-27: Key Changes to Schedule-II (Export Policy) under Finance Act 2026
The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) has issued Notification No. 26/2026-27 dated 27 July 2026, introducing significant amendments to Schedule-II (Export Policy) of ITC (HS) 2022. These revisions have been made to harmonize the export classification system with the amendments introduced under the Finance Act, 2026.
While many of the changes are technical in nature, they are important for exporters, customs brokers, logistics providers, and trade compliance professionals. Businesses involved in export documentation, product classification, and customs clearance should review the revised HS codes to ensure continued compliance and avoid filing errors.
What is DGFT Notification No. 26/2026-27?
DGFT has updated Schedule-II (Export Policy) of ITC (HS) 2022 by incorporating the amendments made through the Finance Act, 2026. The notification revises various:
- Section Notes
- Chapter Notes
- Supplementary Notes
- Tariff Headings
- ITC (HS) Export Codes
These changes ensure that India’s export classification remains aligned with the latest Customs Tariff structure introduced through the Finance Act, 2026.
Why Was This Notification Issued?
To Maintain Uniformity in Classification
Every amendment made to the Customs Tariff through the Finance Act must also be reflected in the ITC (HS) Export Schedule.
Without this synchronization:
- Export declarations may use outdated HS codes.
- Shipping documentation may become inconsistent.
- Customs processing could face avoidable delays.
The notification therefore brings both systems into alignment.
Major Highlights of the Notification
1. Schedule-II Updated
The notification revises the Export Policy Schedule to match the Customs Tariff amendments introduced through Finance Act, 2026.
2. Changes Across Multiple Chapters
Several tariff headings and sub-headings have been amended across different chapters of ITC (HS).
Examples include updates under:
Chapter 3
- Revision of tariff items under heading 0306.
- New classification introduced for Krill.
- Supplementary notes updated for specific tariff items
Chapter 8
Changes include revised classifications for:
- Pecan Nuts
- Cranberries
- Other specified fruit categories
These amendments primarily affect export product classification.
3. Revised ITC (HS) Export Codes
Multiple export HS codes have been substituted, inserted, or modified.
Businesses exporting affected products should verify whether:
- Existing HS codes remain valid
- Export software is updated
- Shipping Bills use the revised classifications
Who Will Be Affected?
The notification impacts a wide range of stakeholders including:
Exporters
Incorrect product classification can lead to documentation errors and delays.
Customs Brokers
Shipping Bills should reflect the revised export codes wherever applicable.
Freight Forwarders
Export documentation and declarations must be updated before filing shipments.
Trade Compliance Teams
Internal product master databases should be reviewed and updated to reflect the latest ITC (HS) classifications.
What Should Exporters Do?
Businesses should take the following actions:
Review Product Classification
Check whether your exported products fall under the amended chapters.
Update ERP and Documentation
Ensure:
- Product masters
- HS Code databases
- Shipping software
- Customs documentation
are updated with the revised codes.
Coordinate with Customs Consultants
Seek professional assistance where classification changes may impact export procedures.
Compliance Benefits
Keeping export classifications updated helps businesses:
- Reduce customs clearance delays
- Improve documentation accuracy
- Maintain regulatory compliance
- Avoid unnecessary amendments to Shipping Bills
- Align export declarations with current Customs Tariff provisions
Note:
DGFT Notification No. 26/2026-27 primarily updates the classification framework of Schedule-II (Export Policy) by aligning it with the Finance Act, 2026. Exporters should review the amended chapters and applicable ITC (HS) codes to ensure that all future export documentation uses the latest classifications.
Conclusion
DGFT Notification No. 26/2026-27 represents an important technical update to India’s export classification system. Although the notification does not introduce new export restrictions or incentives, it ensures that Schedule-II (Export Policy), ITC (HS) 2022 remains consistent with the Customs Tariff amendments enacted through the Finance Act, 2026.
Exporters should review the revised tariff headings and HS codes applicable to their products, update internal systems, and ensure accurate classification in export documentation. Staying aligned with these amendments will help minimize compliance risks and support smoother customs clearance for international shipments.
Notification Reference:
DGFT
Notification No. 26/2026-27
27/07/2026