DGFT issued two linked instruments from the same file (K-31013/1/2026-DIR NAFTA-Part(4)) addressing import of goods made using forced labour.

Notification No. 23/2026-27 inserts Para 2.20B in the FTP, 2023, prohibiting import of goods produced/manufactured wholly or in part using forced labour, empowering the Central Government to notify specific prohibited goods; and inserts Para 11.64 (Chapter 11 – Definitions) defining “Forced Labour” per the ILO Forced Labour Convention, 1930 (No. 29). Public Notice No. 21/2026-27 inserts Para 2.50A in the HBP, 2023, prescribing the DGFT’s enquiry procedure (suo motu or complaint-based) to determine forced-labour use in imported goods, including information-gathering powers, inter-ministerial consultation, and a findings report with recommendations for import prohibition. Importers, exporters, and manufacturers of affected goods are impacted.

Para 2.20B: Prohibition of import of goods produced or manufactured using forced labour:
The import of goods produced or manufactured, wholly or in part, through the use of forced labour is prohibited. The Central Government may, from time to time, specify, by notification, the goods whose import shall be prohibited under this paragraph, having regard to the findings of such enquiry or such other material as it may consider appropriate. The procedure for conducting an enquiry by the Director General of Foreign Trade into the use of forced labour in the production of such goods shall be as prescribed in the Handbook of Procedures, 2023.

11.64 “Forced Labour” means all work or service which is exacted from any person under the menace of any penalty and for which the said person has not offered himself voluntarily, as defined under the ILO Forced Labour Convention, 1930 (No. 29).

Para 2.50A: Procedure for determination of use of forced labour in the production of imported goods

1. The DGFT may, suo motu or upon receipt of any information or complaint supported by credible material, undertake an enquiry to ascertain whether any goods imported into India have been produced, wholly or in part, using forced labour.
2. The DGFT may seek information, documents or clarifications from importer(s), exporter(s), manufacturer(s) or any other person or authority.
3. The DGFT may consult relevant Ministries, Departments, agencies, or other stakeholders.
4. The DGFT may obtain information or technical inputs from any domestic or international organisation, governmental authority or expert body.
5. Upon completion, the DGFT shall prepare a findings report and may recommend to the Central Government, including recommendations for prohibition of import under the FT(D&R) Act, 1992 and FTP, 2023.