Advance Authorisation - Norms
Advance Authorisation norms have entered a more digital and predictable phase, with DGFT focusing on automation, online modules, and reusable databases for Standard Input Output Norms (SION) and ad hoc norms. These changes directly impact how quickly exporters can get norms fixed, how easily they can reuse existing norms, and how smoothly they can manage Advance Authorisation and EODC compliance.
Automated, rule-based norms fixation
DGFT has implemented a system-driven, rule-based online mechanism for fixation of ad hoc input–output norms and for notifying new SION under the Advance Authorisation scheme. This shift has been brought in through amendments to Chapter 4 of the Handbook of Procedures 2023, including Public Notice No. 51/2023 and related instructions. Norms cases that earlier moved manually to the Norms Committee are now processed through an IT module at DGFT Headquarters, using defined rules and checks.
For exporters, this automation in the Advance Authorisation norms fixation aims to reduce processing time, ensure more consistent decisions, and limit back and forth queries. When you apply for ad hoc norms or modification of existing SION, your application is evaluated inside this digital system, which should gradually make outcomes more predictable and reduce administrative friction.
Online norms fixation module (ANF 4B)
To support this, DGFT has introduced an online Norms Fixation module using ANF 4B, available on the DGFT portal. Exporters must now file all applications related to fixation, review, or modification of norms—whether for new ad hoc norms, SION changes, or ratification of self-declaration norms—through this module. You upload technical details, consumption data, supporting documents, and track the status online instead of relying on physical submissions.
This module is integrated with the core DGFT system that issues Advance Authorisations, so approved input–output norms can flow directly into licences, reducing data entry errors and mismatches between what the Norms Committee sanctioned and what appears on the licence. Over time, this alignment between input–output norms and actual AA conditions should also make EODC scrutiny simpler and more data-backed.
Searchable database of ad hoc norms
Another major update is the creation of a searchable online database of ad hoc norms fixed under para 4.07. A DGFT trade notice explains that exporters can log in and search this database to see whether norms like their product have already been ratified in earlier cases. If suitable norms exist, they can often be reused by new applicants instead of initiating a fresh, time-consuming norms fixation case.
This benefits sectors where many exporters make similar but non-SION products—for example, speciality chemicals, customised engineering components, or niche textiles. Instead of each exporter separately approaching the Norms Committee, they can rely on already ratified ad hoc norms where applicable, speeding up Advance Authorisation issuance.
Validity and reuse of ratified norms
HBP 2023 also clarifies the validity period for norms ratified by the Norms Committee. Norms ratified on or after 01.04.2023 under para 4.07 are valid for three years from the date of ratification; during this period, other exporters can apply for Advance Authorisation on a repeat basis using the same norms. Norms ratified on or after 01.04.2015 under the earlier HBP 2015–20 are deemed valid up to 31.03.2026, ensuring continuity for a large stock of existing norms.
For businesses, this means you can now plan your Advance Authorisation strategy knowing that once useful norms are ratified, they remain reusable for a defined window instead of expiring ambiguously. Practical action points include: always checking the online norms database before filing a new norms request; routing all norms applications through ANF 4B; and planning repeat AAs within the three-year (or 31.03.2026) validity of favoured norms.