India Curbs Computer Imports Amid Push For Local Production

The restriction comes on top of policies designed to discourage import of foreign electronics that have been in place for years, including lofty tariffs.

India is requiring licenses for the import of computers from laptops to tablets, the latest in a series of government measures intended to encourage local electronics production.

Purchasers need to seek permission to import laptops, tablets, all-in-one personal computers and ultra-small computers and servers with immediate effect, according to a notification from the Directorate General of Foreign Trade. Certain types of PCs that are designated "capital goods" may be exempt, the agency said without elaborating.

Shares in local electronics contract manufacturers rose after the government announcement. Amber Enterprises India Ltd. gained as much as 3.3%, Dixon Technologies India Ltd. rose 5.5% and PG Electroplast Ltd. spiked 2.8%.