India–UK CETA TRQ Applications Invited for CY 2026: DGFT Opens Window from 21 July to 4 August 2026
The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), through Public Notice No. 22/2026-27 dated 20 July 2026, has invited applications for the allocation of Tariff Rate Quotas (TRQs) under the India–United Kingdom Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) for the Calendar Year (CY) 2026.
The application window is open from 21 July 2026 to 4 August 2026. Eligible importers can apply for specified categories of Completely Built Unit (CBU) passenger vehicles and goods transport vehicles under the TRQ mechanism. This initiative enables importers to access preferential tariff benefits under the India–UK CETA while ensuring imports remain within the notified quota limits.
What is a Tariff Rate Quota (TRQ)?
A Tariff Rate Quota (TRQ) allows a specified quantity of goods to be imported at a concessional customs duty. Once the quota is exhausted, any additional imports are generally subject to the normal applicable customs duty.
Under the India–UK CETA, TRQs provide controlled market access while balancing domestic industry interests.
DGFT Invites Applications for India–UK CETA TRQ 2026
As per the Public Notice, DGFT has invited applications for TRQ allocation for the following product categories:
1. Passenger Motor Vehicles (CBU)
Eligible categories include:
- Engine capacity not exceeding 1500 cc
- Engine capacity above 1500 cc but not exceeding 3000 cc (Petrol) or 2500 cc (Diesel)
- Engine capacity above 3000 cc (Petrol) or above 2500 cc (Diesel)
2. Goods Transport Vehicles (CBU)
Motor vehicles for transportation of goods (excluding electric or hydrogen fuel vehicles) imported as Completely Built Units are also covered.
India–UK CETA TRQ Quantities for CY 2026
| Product Category | TRQ Quantity |
|---|---|
| Passenger vehicles up to 1500 cc | 2,329 |
| Passenger vehicles above 1500 cc (specified limits) | 2,329 |
| Passenger vehicles above 3000 cc / 2500 cc diesel | 4,658 |
| Goods transport vehicles (CBU) | 1,164 |
Application Timeline
Application Opens
21 July 2026
Application Closes
4 August 2026
Applications submitted after the closing date may not be considered for allocation.
Import Procedure
The Public Notice clarifies that imports under these TRQs shall be permitted in accordance with the procedures prescribed under:
- Annexure VII of Appendix 2A of the Foreign Trade Policy (FTP), 2023
- Public Notice No. 19/2026-27 dated 09 July 2026
Applicants should ensure full compliance with the prescribed documentation and allocation procedures before filing their applications.
Who Should Apply?
The notification is relevant for:
- Automobile importers
- Commercial vehicle importers
- Automotive distributors
- Businesses planning imports under the India–UK CETA
- Customs and international trade professionals
Note:
The DGFT has only invited applications for TRQ allocation. Importers should verify their product classification, eligibility, and documentation requirements before submitting their applications. Allocation is subject to the procedures laid down under the Foreign Trade Policy and related public notices.
Conclusion
The opening of the India–UK CETA TRQ application window for CY 2026 marks another important step in implementing the bilateral trade agreement between India and the United Kingdom. Importers seeking preferential tariff benefits should submit their applications within the prescribed period of 21 July 2026 to 4 August 2026 and ensure compliance with the applicable FTP procedures. Early preparation of documentation can help businesses avoid delays and maximize the benefits available under the CETA framework.
Notification Reference:
DGFT
Public Notice No. 22 /2026-27
20/07/2026