From textiles to furniture, 350 items may face non-tariff barriers

Move is in line with govt's 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' objective

The government is considering import restrictions on more than 350 items, including electronic goods, toys, furniture, and textiles, by putting in place non-tariff barriers to support domestic industry. Steps such as introducing an import-monitoring system for some and mandatory licensing requirements for others are being examined.

The move is in line with the “Atmanirbhar Bharat” objective, to cut import dependence, and encourage production and demand for locally made goods.  Departments and ministries including finance; commerce; micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs); and the NITI Aayog are working on a strategy to curtail such imports.

Besides, establishing rigorous product standards is