The Central Government has banned the import of roasted arecanuts, a move welcomed by the Central Arecanut and Cocoa Marketing and Processing Cooperative (CAMPCO). The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) reclassified roasted arecanuts under ITC (HS) Codes 08028090 and 20081920 from the “free” to the “prohibited” import category.
Earlier, roasted arecanuts were being imported under the broader category of “Roasted Nuts and Seeds.” With this new notification, the unrestricted import of roasted arecanuts stands cancelled. CAMPCO President Kishore Kumar Kodgi applauded the Centre’s decision, calling it a step in favor of domestic arecanut growers.
The notification, issued by the Ministry of Commerce on April 2, 2025, also fixed a Minimum Import Price (MIP) of Rs 351 per kg. However, this MIP condition will not apply if the Cost, Insurance, and Freight (CIF) value exceeds Rs 351 per kg for imports made by 100% Export-Oriented Units (EOUs), Special Economic Zones (SEZs), or under the Advance Authorization scheme.
The influx of roasted arecanuts into the Indian market in recent months had led to a drop in prices of lower-grade arecanuts like ‘Pattora’ and weakened market demand. Farmers are expected to benefit from the government’s latest restriction.
