Import of pepper, earlier classified as 'free', is now 'prohibited'

But the import of pepper above Rs 500 per kg CIF will continue to be free

Nearly 3-4 months after announcing a minimum import price (MIP) for pepper, the government has now prohibited the import of the commodity below its CIF (cost, insurance, freight) value of Rs 500 per kg. The notification might stop the import of low-value pepper completely, said industry experts.
 
In an order issued in this regard, Director General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) Alok Vardhan Chaturvedi detailed the amendment to the import policy and policy condition for pepper.
 
Until now, the import had been free under the policy, but the amendment has now listed it under ‘prohibited’. However, the