Signal Desk · Economy

Centre bans export of battery waste, including lithium-ion black mass

2026-11-11 · 4 sources · Business Standard Economy & Policy

In short

The DGFT has banned exports of certain battery waste and scrap, including lithium-ion black mass. The policy for ITC (HS) code 85491400 was changed from Free to Prohibited right away.

This means companies dealing in this waste can no longer ship it abroad under this code.

What the reporting says

The DGFT has changed the export policy for specified battery waste and scrap under ITC (HS) code 85491400 from Free to Prohibited, with immediate effect. The move covers battery waste including lithium-ion black mass. The policy shift is a direct trade restriction and could affect exporters handling this waste stream.

Why it matters

The DGFT has immediately changed the export policy for specified battery waste and scrap under ITC (HS) code 85491400 from Free to Prohibited. The change includes lithium-ion black mass, tightening India’s trade rules around battery waste.

Touches: Government, Commodities, Global

Sources