Amid persistent geopolitical tensions and maritime logistics disruptions across the Gulf and wider West Asia corridor, the Department of Commerce has officially extended the operational timelines under Component II of the RELIEF (Resilience & Logistics Intervention for Export Facilitation) initiative.
Issued via Notification No. 37/2026-27 on Sept 30, 2026, the extension aims to shield Indian traders from extraordinary freight rate escalations, surging insurance costs, and war-related risks.
Component II of the RELIEF scheme encourages exporters to secure Export Credit Guarantee Corporation (ECGC) cover for shipments destined for specified volatile regions, offering robust risk protection of up to 95%.
This benefit applies to Standalone Policies or Whole Turnover Policies obtained on or after March 16, 2026, covering various cargo types including Full Container Load (FCL), Less than Container Load (LCL), and Reefer containers, while excluding energy shipments. Crucially, the scheme guarantees that insurance premiums paid by exporters will not exceed pre-disruption levels during the eligible period.
Originally launched on March 19, 2026, under the Export Promotion Mission, the RELIEF initiative has proven vital for protecting trade routes. This timeline extension highlights the government’s commitment to maintaining export resilience, stabilising supply chains, and supporting domestic businesses through global logistics challenges.
