Govt plans Quantitative Restrictions to check import surge

New Delhi, Mar 11 (UNI) Minister of State for Commerce Jairam Ramesh today told the Lok Sabha that the government was considering amending the Foreign Trade (Development) and Regulation Act, 1992, to provide for specific safegurad measures in the form of Quantative Restrictions to address surge in imports.

In a written reply, Mr Ramesh said at present the Central government is empowered under Section 3(2) of Foreign Trade (Development and Regulation) Act , 1992, to impose restrictions on import of goods into India. It also has the power to levy safegurad duties under Customs Tariff Act, 1975.

Garlic Imports In reply to another question, Mr Ramesh said 14 consignments of garlic bulbs imported from Pakistan were recommended for deportation and destruction as these were infected with Quarantine pest Dry Rot (Embellisia alli).

The imports were effected during the period December 5,2007 to January 5,2008.

UNI GS MSJ RN1527