Covid-19: Govt Exempts Import Of Medical Equipment From Customs Duty

The government on Thursday exempted various medical equipment from levy of basic customs duty and health cess in order to allow cheaper imports of these critical devices that are required in large numbers in the country to contain coronavirus pandemic. The basic customs duty exemption will be applicable until September 30 so that enough time is available for imports. The exemption has been given for imports of ventilators, face masks, surgical masks, personal protective equipment (PPE), Covid-19 test kits and all inputs that go into the manufacturing of these devices.