Govt extends duty-free import of cotton by 3 months, till Dec 31
The Central government has extended the duty-free import of cotton by three months; now valid till December 31, 2025. The cumulative 11% import duty, comprising 5% Basic Customs Duty, 5% Agriculture Infrastructure and Development Cess, and a 10% Social Welfare Surcharge on both, was earlier waived temporarily from August 19 to September 30. The move supports the Indian textile sector.