The DGFT vide Notification No. 04/2026-27 dated April 06, 2026 has notified amendments to the Export Policy under Chapter 44 of ITC (HS), 2022, Schedule-II (Export Policy), pertaining to wood pellets and wood briquettes, with immediate effect.
The amendment has been issued in exercise of powers under the Foreign Trade (Development & Regulation) Act, 1992, read with the provisions of the Foreign Trade Policy, 2023.
Key Changes in Export Policy
As per the notification, the export policy for the following items has been revised:
[1] Wood Pellets (ITC HS Code: 44013100)
- Earlier Status: Prohibited
- Revised Status: Restricted
Exports of wood pellets are now permitted subject to obtaining a Restricted Export Authorization from DGFT.
The revised conditions allow exports under controlled mechanisms, replacing the earlier blanket prohibition.
[2] Wood Briquettes (ITC HS Code: 44013200)
- Earlier Status: Free
- Revised Status: Restricted
Exports of wood briquettes shall also be allowed only under a Restricted Export Authorization.
Revised Policy Conditions
The notification specifies that exports of these items will now be governed by:
- Mandatory authorization from DGFT
- Compliance with conditions as may be notified from time to time
- Regulatory oversight to ensure sustainable and controlled export
Additionally, as indicated in the table on page 1 and continuation on page 2, earlier restrictions on export of wood and wood-based products have been modified to introduce a regulated export regime.
Effect of the Notification
The notification clearly states that:
- Export policy of wood pellets (44013100) has been changed from “Prohibited” to “Restricted”
- Export policy of wood briquettes (44013200) has been changed from “Free” to “Restricted”
Accordingly, exports of these goods shall now be allowed only against valid Restricted Export Authorization issued by DGFT.
Objective of the Amendment
The amendment is aimed at:
- Ensuring regulated exports of wood-based products
- Promoting sustainable resource management
- Balancing domestic availability with export demand
Conclusion
This policy shift marks a transition from prohibition and free export regimes to a controlled and monitored export framework, ensuring both trade facilitation and conservation priorities.
Stakeholders are advised to comply with the revised provisions and obtain necessary authorizations prior to export.
The Notification can be accessed at: https://a2ztaxcorp.net/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Notification-No.-04-2026-27.pdf
