India allows export of drones for civilian use

The commerce ministry said the decision is in line with the emphasis laid in Foreign Trade Policy 2023 on facilitating the export of high tech items, taking into consideration India's international obligations on non-proliferation.

Export of all kind/type of drones/UAVs were earlier controlled/restricted as these were listed in the Special Chemicals Organisms Material Equipments and Technology (SCOMET) category, under the ITCHS classification of import and export Items. These items have the potential of dual use - meaning they can have both civilian and military applications. SCOMET licence was required for export of such items and the industry was facing challenges to export drones with limited capability which are only meant for civilian use. 

The SCOMET policy of drones/UAVs meant for civilian use has been amended vide DGFT notification dated 23 June 2023 to simplify and liberalise export of drones/UAVs. The export of Drones/UAVs not covered under the specified categories in SCOMET list and capable of range equal to or less than 25 km and delivering a payload of not more than 25 kgs (excluding the software and technology of these items) and meant for only civilian end-use, will now be subject to General Authorisation for Export of Drones (GAED), a onetime general licence valid for 3 years. 

This policy change will not require the drone manufacturers/exporters with GAED authorisation to apply for SCOMET licence for every similar export shipment meant for civilian purpose, but will be subject to post reporting and other documentary requirements.

This would further facilitate the drone/UAV manufactures/industry to export drones with ease, thereby, facilitating ease of doing business and promoting export from India. This policy change would also promote India as a global manufacturing hub of drones/UAVs and push the start-ups/new drone manufacturers in this field to scale up and look at the global markets. 

It will allow Indian drone manufacturers to access larger markets and compete on a global scale, ultimately boosting economic activity. Liberalising export controls on drones may also encourage innovation and technological advancement in the drone/UAV industry.

DGFT has notified the detailed procedure of General Authorisation for Export of Drones (GAED) for export of drones/UAVs meant for civilian use, which is available on DGFT website.