RBI shortens export proceeds realisation timelines, expands dealer powers

The Reserve Bank of India on 22 September 2026 notified amendments to the Foreign Exchange Management (Export and Import of Goods and Services) Regulations, 2026, effective 1 October 2026. The changes reduce timelines for exporters to realise and repatriate foreign exchange earnings.

Under the amendment, the realisation period for exports of goods and services has been shortened from 15 months to 9 months. For exports invoiced in Indian Rupees, the period has been reduced from 18 months to 12 months. The changes aim to ease compliance burden on exporters while maintaining regulatory oversight.

The amendments also empower Authorised Dealers to handle specified legacy export-import and merchanting trade transactions undertaken before 1 October 2026, previously requiring direct RBI approval. This delegation is intended to improve operational efficiency and expedite transaction processing without compromising regulatory standards.