In a recent notification, the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) tightened norms for the import of low-ash metallurgical coke, placing it under the “Restricted” category for a six-month period from 1 January 2026 to 30 June 2026.
During this period, such imports will be allowed only with approval under Policy Condition No. 08 of Chapter 27 of the import policy.
Low-ash metallurgical coke refers to coke with an ash content of below 18%. It is a key raw material used in steel and ferro-alloy production. The restriction, issued on 25 December 2025, covers coke fines, coke breeze and ultra-low phosphorus metallurgical coke (with phosphorus content up to 0.030 per cent), falling under HS Codes 27040020, 27040030, 27040040 and 27040090.
The government clarified that metallurgical coke with an ash content of above 18 per cent is not affected by the notification and will continue to be freely importable. Other products under the same HS codes that do not fall within the low-ash category will also remain under the “Free” import regime.
Accordingly, while high-ash metallurgical coke and other coal-based coke products can still be imported without restriction, importers of low-ash metallurgical coke will now be required to comply with the revised licensing and approval framework during the first half of 2026.
Notification Number: No. 53/2025-26
Date: 31.12.2025