import of arms and ammunition in india

While the global level of international arms transfers decreased by 5.1%, imports of major arms by European states increased by 47% between 2013–17 and 2018–22 in the backdrop of the war in Ukraine.
The U.S. share of global arms exports increased from 33% to 40% while Russia’s fell from 22% to 16%.
Arms imports by Pakistan increased by 14% between 2013–17 and 2018–22 and accounted for 3.7% of the global total with China supplying 77% of Pakistan’s arms imports in 2018–22.

India’s Arms Import Outlook

With an 11% share of total global arms imports, India was the world’s biggest importer of major arms in 2018–22, a position it has held for the period 1993–2022.
India remained the top importer despite an 11% drop in its arms import between 2013-17 and 2018-22.

Arms Suppliers to India

Russia was India’s largest arms supplier in the periods between 2013-17 and 2018-22, but its share of arms imports to India fell from 64% to 45% while France emerged as the second-largest arms supplier to India between 2018-22 at 29%, followed by the US at 11%.
- Russia’s position as India’s main arms supplier is under pressure owing to strong competition from other supplier states, increased Indian arms production, and, since 2022, constraints on Russia’s arms exports related to its invasion of Ukraine.
India also imported arms during this five-year period from Israel, South Korea, and South Africa which are among the top arms exporters globally.

Reason for Drop in Arm Imports

The drop in arms imports can be attributed to several factors including India’s slow and complex arms procurement process, and efforts to diversify its arms suppliers, among others.

Arm Supply from India

India was the third-largest arms supplier to Myanmar during this period after Russia and China and comprised 14% of its imports.
- 77% of Pakistan’s arms supply in 2018-22 came from China.

Export Arms and Ammunition from India

1) Licensing and Eligibility: Arms and ammunition exports are heavily regulated in India. You must establish your eligibility and obtain the requisite licenses.

2) Compliance with SCOMET: SCOMET items encompass a wide array of goods, some of which may fall under arms and ammunition. Compliance with SCOMET regulations is vital for legal and ethical trade.

3) End-User Verification: Ensuring the arms and ammunition reach legitimate end-users is a critical aspect. End-User Certificates (EUC) are often a requirement.

4) Security and Safety: Implement stringent security measures throughout the process to safeguard against unauthorized access or accidents.

5) Record-Keeping: Maintain meticulous records of every transaction, including licenses, invoices, and other relevant documentation.

6) Customs and International Regulations: Compliance with customs procedures and adherence to international treaties and agreements are paramount.

FAQs

What type of licenses are required for importing arms and ammunition?

Importer-Exporter Code (IEC) issued by the DGFT and an Arms License issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs or the competent authority are required.

What are the procedures for obtaining an arms import license?

The applicant must apply to the competent authority, typically the Ministry of Home Affairs, with necessary documents such as identity proof, address proof, and business details. The authority evaluates the application and, if approved, issues the license.

What types of arms and ammunition can be imported?

Generally, only specific types of firearms and ammunition permitted by the Indian government can be imported. These include handguns, rifles, shotguns, and associated ammunition.

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