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FM Nirmala Sitharaman proposes duty-free imports of certain specified inputs for leather exports sector
New Delhi: Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Sunday proposed duty-free import of certain inputs to promote the country’s leather exports. The Union Budget 2026-27 proposed a sharp rationalization of the customs duty structure, with Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announcing a reduction in the tariff rate on all dutiable goods imported for personal use from 20% to 10%. The move will help provide a cushion to leather exporters who are suffering due to high US tariffs of 50 percent.
The country’s leather and leather products shipments fell marginally by 0.23 percent to $3.3 billion during April-December 2025-26.
It also exempted parts used in the production of microwave ovens from basic customs duty.
The country’s leather and leather products shipments fell marginally by 0.23 percent to $3.3 billion during April-December 2025-26.
It also exempted parts used in the production of microwave ovens from basic customs duty.
Sitharaman announced that India will develop 15 archaeological sites, including Lothal, Dholavira, Rakhigarhi, Sarnath and Hastinapur.
He also suggested increasing the final product export period for leather and textile garment exporters from six months to one year.
Additionally, the minister said that the government will support the Artificial Limbs Manufacturing Corporation of India to increase the production of assistive devices.
With inputs from PTI
