The Indian government has imposed a minimum import price (MIP) of Rs 100 per umbrella, tightening import policy in a bid to protect and promote domestic umbrella manufacturing. Under the new rule, finished umbrellas cannot be imported if their cost (CIF) value is below Rs 100 per piece, effectively restricting cheaper imports that could undercut local producers .
The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) revised the import policy for umbrellas from “free” to “restricted,” meaning all imports must meet the new price threshold unless exempted. Exemptions apply to importers with Advance Authorisations, export-oriented units (EOUs), and firms operating in special economic zones (SEZs).
This move is part of broader efforts to strengthen domestic industry and reduce reliance on low-priced imports, particularly from countries like China, which accounts for a large share of umbrella imports into India. The government also recently raised import duties on umbrellas as part of trade policy changes announced in the Budget 2026-27.
Industry analysts say the measure could support local manufacturers by levelling the playing field against cheaper foreign products, though consumer prices may rise in the short term as import competition shifts.