Machinery and apparatus for isotopic separation, and parts thereof

Isotopic separation machinery, apparatus and parts

DGFT CLEARANCE

HSN 8401 20 00 (Machinery and apparatus for isotopic separation, and parts thereof) is subject to Restricted-import status under the ITC (HS) import policy administered by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT). No import is permitted without specific DGFT authorisation satisfying the applicable ITC (HS) policy condition for Chapter 84.

What this is

HSN code

8401 20 00

Chapter

84 · Nuclear reactors, boilers, machinery and mechanical appliances; parts thereof

Primary regulator

DGFT · ITC (HS) Restricted import policy, Chapter 84

Customs documentation

Import authorisation from DGFT
ITC (HS) policy compliance from DGFT

Compliance steps

1
Obtain a DGFT import authorisation satisfying the applicable policy condition for this Restricted tariff line before shipment. Filing a bill of entry without valid DGFT authorisation renders the consignment liable to detention and confiscation under the Foreign Trade (Development and Regulation) Act, 1992.
ITC (HS) import policy, Chapter 84 — Restricted status
2
Upload the DGFT import authorisation in e-Sanchit at the bill-of-entry stage and ensure the document is current and covers the quantity and description of the goods being imported.
ITC (HS) import policy, Chapter 84 — Restricted status

A word of counsel

The most common error on this tariff line is treating the Restricted-import status as a procedural formality and shipping without confirmed DGFT authorisation. Because isotopic separation equipment falls within strategically sensitive nuclear-related goods, the customs proper officer will verify the authorisation against the consignment description at the bill-of-entry stage; a mismatch in equipment category or quantity results in detention, extended demurrage, and potential confiscation rather than a correctable documentation gap.

Need a regulatory steer on this product?

Speak to a regulatory counsel about your specific HSN, IS, and supplier situation.

Speak to an Expert

Frequently asked

Does HSN 8401 20 00 require BIS certification?

No, machinery and apparatus for isotopic separation is not covered by any BIS Quality Control Order. Import is governed solely by the ITC (HS) Restricted-import policy administered by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade, and valid DGFT import authorisation is the operative requirement at the bill of entry.

What DGFT authorisation instrument is required for this Restricted tariff line?

The specific instrument — whether a Licence, Special Import Licence, or end-use certificate — is determined by DGFT based on the policy condition applicable to Chapter 84 at the time of application; importers must confirm the current condition directly with DGFT before placing the purchase order.

Does the Restricted-import status apply to spare parts as well as complete machinery?

Yes. The tariff description explicitly covers both complete machinery and apparatus for isotopic separation and parts thereof under the same 8-digit CTI, so parts are equally subject to the Restricted-import policy condition and require the same DGFT authorisation.

Last verified against gazette notifications: 2026-05-16. Source: DGFT / Indian Customs CUSDATA.