DGFT Notifies SION for Sodium Citrate Exports
The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) has officially notified the Standard Input Output Norms (SION) for the export product Sodium Citrate under the Chemical and Allied Product Group. This notification provides clarity to exporters on permissible input quantities for duty-free imports under Advance Authorization.
What is SION?
Standard Input Output Norms (SION) define the standard quantity of inputs allowed for the manufacture of a unit of export product. Issued by DGFT under the Foreign Trade Policy, SION helps:
- Determine eligibility for Advance Authorisation Scheme
- Facilitate faster export-import clearances
- Avoid disputes over input-output ratios
SION is especially critical for exporters seeking duty-free input procurement, subject to value-addition norms.
Highlights of the SION for Sodium Citrate
As per the DGFT Public Notice dated June 2025 (exact number to be updated once published in the Gazette):
| Export Product | Input Item | Quantity Allowed per MT | Remarks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sodium Citrate | Citric Acid | 0.900 MT | Commercial grade permitted |
| Caustic Soda Flakes | 0.200 MT | Must meet BIS specs | |
| Water | As per process | Non-creditable input |
Note: Exporters should verify with RCMC or consult an IEC advisor for the latest input norms as per AHC database.
Who Benefits from This Notification?
This new SION for Sodium Citrate is significant for:
- Bulk chemical exporters
- Pharma excipient suppliers
- Food additive manufacturers
- Units operating under Advance Authorization or EPCG
By standardising input-output ratios, DGFT reduces documentary delays and helps exporters claim customs duty exemption on inputs.
Legal Reference
- DGFT Public Notice (Chemical Panel) – June 2025
- Issued under Para 4.10 of the Foreign Trade Policy 2023
- Linked to Appendix 4J and SION Book under DGFT portal
- Cross-reference: https://dgft.gov.in
For full legal compliance, always cross-check with the latest CBIC customs notifications on duty exemptions under Advance Authorisation.
Expert Tip for Exporters
“Many exporters miss out on duty benefits due to lack of awareness about notified SION. Once published, Sodium Citrate exporters should immediately update their Bill of Entry and shipping documentation to reflect the approved input norms.”
– Senior Export Compliance Consultant, Efiletax
How to Claim Benefits Under SION?
- Update your Advance Authorization application to include new SION norms
- Maintain input consumption records as per SION
- File export shipping bills with relevant input-output mapping
- Ensure GST/Customs documentation aligns with notified SION
FAQs
Q1. Is it mandatory to follow SION for Sodium Citrate?
Yes, if you are claiming input duty exemptions under Advance Authorization, you must adhere to the notified SION.
Q2. Can I request modification in SION norms?
Yes. You can apply to the Norms Committee of DGFT with a technical justification and past consumption data.
Q3. Will this SION be applicable retrospectively?
No. SION is applicable from the date of publication in the DGFT Public Notice.
Summary
DGFT has notified the SION for Sodium Citrate under Chemical & Allied Products. Exporters can now claim input duty exemptions based on standardised norms for citric acid and caustic soda. This supports efficient compliance and value addition tracking under the Advance Authorisation Scheme.
Final Note
Efiletax helps Indian exporters and consultants stay updated with the latest DGFT and customs notifications. For expert help in SION mapping, RCMC registration, and Advance Authorization filing, connect with our team.