Why India Banned Laptops, Tablets and PCs from China?
The Indian government implemented import restrictions on laptops, tablets, and personal computers, citing security concerns and the desire to boost domestic manufacturing.
Last year India imported laptops, Tablets and PCs worth $10 billion from around the world. Imports of these products from China and Hong Kong were $6.3 billion. India has introduced an immediate import restriction on laptops, tablets, and personal computers from all countries. The government wants to stop imports and promote local manufacturing. Now, any company that seeks to bring electronic devices from abroad for sale would have to secure a "Valid Licence for Restricted Imports" in India. All notable brands will be affected by this move, including Apple, Lenovo, HP, Asus, Samsung, and more. Now, these companies would have to stop import activities for devices coming to the Indian market. If they want to sell, they will have to get a license or manufacture in India and sell. Import licenses also allow an exemption for up to 20 items per shipment - especially for research, testing, repair, re-export, product development, and testing. Such imports are allowed so far they're used solely for their stated purposes and not sold. nOnce the purpose appears fulfilled, users would have to re-export or destroy the devices bought to India in large numbers. Most laptops and personal computers currently available in India originate from China. As per the government, it is intended to promoting domestic manufacturing as well as to limit supplies from China, as the country has security worries about such products. But what happens to people who wish to buy laptops abroad and bring them home?
People who bring one laptop, tablet, a personal computer, or a small form factor computer in their baggage to India from a foreign country will not have to worry. This exemption is valid on items from e-commerce platforms and those shipped via courier or post. In essence, people can bring a laptop and tab from a foreign country to India but they cannot resell it. People would be required to pay customs duty charges for bringing these devices to India. But if one buys up to 20 items, then they'll be required to provide the reasons mentioned above for importing those to India. Days after India put a restriction on imports of laptops, the Central government said the country has sufficient capacity for manufacturing IT hardware devices. Hailing the move, Chairman and Co-founder of Lava International, Hari Om Rai said, “The restriction on import of laptops and tablets is truly a leadership move by the Government of India. It is a step forward for making India the global hub for electronics production. The govt of India has ensured that there is no disruption in the supply chain and that the consumer does not suffer. India will generate a huge number of jobs and have a large component ecosystem and one day become a great electronics manufacturing hub. It is now a new India that is working for its industry, consumers, and citizens.” On 1 August 2023 Jio launched their laptop ‘Jiobook’ at 16,499 an then on 3 August 2023 the government restricted the import of laptops, tablets, and computers. Netizens are wondering whether this is a coincidence or not.
