SRINAGAR: The Reserve Bank of India has extended key trade facilitation measures for exporters, citing continued geopolitical instability and logistical disruptions linked to the ongoing crisis in West Asia.
In a directive issued on March 31, the central bank confirmed that exporters will continue to benefit from an extended timeline for realisation and repatriation of export proceeds—now set at 15 months from the date of export, up from the earlier nine-month limit. The relaxation, first introduced through a November 2025 press release, will remain in force until further notice.
The RBI also announced a fresh extension of the enhanced export credit period of 450 days for both pre-shipment and post-shipment credit. This benefit, earlier applicable to disbursals made up to March 31, 2026, has now been extended to cover all disbursals made till June 30, 2026.
The move follows representations from exporters and industry stakeholders who have flagged persistent challenges in meeting payment timelines due to supply chain disruptions, shipping delays, and elevated geopolitical risks in the region.
“These measures are aimed at providing continued relief to exporters navigating uncertain global trade conditions,” the central bank said, adding that exporters may avail the facility in line with the existing terms and conditions.
The new framework has been formalised under the Reserve Bank of India (Trade Relief Measures) Directions, 2026, issued alongside the notification.
The RBI said it will closely monitor the evolving situation and take further steps as required to safeguard trade flows and financial stability.
The announcement comes at a time when global trade routes remain under pressure, with prolonged instability in West Asia affecting freight movement, insurance costs, and transaction cycles for Indian exporters.
