The DGFT’s Vigilance Section issued a Circular vide F. No. 3/5/2024-Vig dated January 29, 2025, restricting visitors from bringing cash exceeding Rs. 10,000 into DGFT offices. This follows the Hon’ble CIM’s directive to promote online payments for application fees and government dues, as outlined in the Foreign Trade Policy, 2023. Visitors must provide a legitimate reason for carrying such cash; otherwise, entry may be denied.
Department of Commerce (Vigilance Section) has requested Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) to take necessary action on the action point approved by the Hon’ble CIM that DGFT may take a decision to issue instructions with regard to not allowing visitors carrying currency of value of a specific amount in cash, while visiting DGFT offices, as online payment facilities are available for accepting application fee, government dues etc.
The matter has been examined. As per the provisions of the para 2.11 (Application Fee) of Foreign Trade Policy, 2023 “…..application for IEC/Authorisation/License/Scrips/Registration must be accompanied by application fees as indicated in the Appendix 2K of Appendices and Aayat Niryat Forms. Fees must be paid online through any of the channels as notified under Appendix 2K, unless provided otherwise.”
In view of the above, Regional Authorities of DGFT are requested to ensure that any visitor coming to their Office carrying cash in excess of Rs. 10,000/- should provide reason for possessing such an amount. In the absence of a bonafide or legitimate reason, entry into the office premises may not be permitted.
The Circular can be accessed at: https://a2ztaxcorp.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/DGFT__Circular_29.01.2025.pdf