The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) has issued Trade Notice No. 28/2026-27 dated 16 September 2026, introducing changes to the Pre-Shipment Inspection Certificate (PSIC) issuance process.
The update focuses on timely certificate issuance, backlog clearance, and geographical location requirements for PSIA agencies and trade stakeholders.
PSIC Must Be Issued Within 2 Days
Under the revised provisions, the Pre-Shipment Inspection Certificate (PSIC) must generated and issued within 2 days from the date of inspection.
The system will permit PSIC generation and issuance only within the prescribed timeline.
This makes timely processing important for Pre-Shipment Inspection Agencies (PSIAs)involved in the certification process.
One-Time Relaxation for Backlog PSICs
DGFT now offers a one-time relaxation of 7 days from the date of issuance of the Trade Notice for recognized PSIAs.
This relaxation applies to:
- Backlog PSICs related to inspections conducted before 25 August 2026.
- Certificates that could not be issued due to system restrictions introduced following Trade Notice No. 22/2026-27.
Recognized PSIAs can use this transitional arrangement to clear eligible pending certificates.
Geographical Location Requirement for PSIC Uploading
DGFT requires PSIAs to upload PSICs from the same geographical location or country where they conducted the inspection.
PSIA agencies should ensure that their uploading process follows this requirement.
What Should Importers, Exporters and PSIAs Do?
Businesses and inspection agencies should pay attention to the following:
- Ensure PSIC issuance within the prescribed 2-day timeline.
- Review eligible backlog PSICs covered by the one-time relaxation.
- Check compliance with the geographical location requirement.
- Coordinate properly between inspection agencies and trade stakeholders to reduce documentation delays.
Conclusion
The DGFT Trade Notice No. 28/2026-27 introduces a revised timeline for PSIC issuance and a one-time arrangement for clearing eligible backlog certificates.
PSIA agencies should review their processes to comply with the revised requirements and avoid unnecessary delays in the import-export documentation process.
For updates on DGFT notifications, EXIM compliance, and import-export consultancy, stay connected with DGFT EXIM Consultants.