Government extends RELIEF export support as West Asia shipping disruptions persist

The Department of Commerce has extended the timelines under Component II of RELIEF (Resilience & Logistics Intervention for Export Facilitation), citing continued geopolitical disruptions in West Asia and their impact on maritime logistics across the Gulf and adjoining regions.

The extension was notified through Notification No. 37/2026-27 dated September 30, 2026. RELIEF is a time-bound intervention under the Export Promotion Mission (EPM).

What does Component II of RELIEF offer exporters?

Component II encourages exporters shipping to specified regions to obtain ECGC cover for upcoming consignments, with risk coverage of 95%.

The provision applies to Stand Alone Policies and Whole Turnover Policies taken on or after March 16, 2026.

A key feature is the protection of insurance premiums. Eligible exporters will not have to pay premiums above pre-disruption levels during the applicable period, limiting the impact of higher insurance costs associated with the regional crisis.

Which cargo shipments are covered?

The support covers Full Container Load (FCL), Less than Container Load (LCL) and reefer container shipments.

Energy shipments are excluded from the scheme’s coverage.

Why was RELIEF introduced?

The government launched RELIEF on March 19, 2026, as a targeted measure for Indian exporters affected by higher freight costs, increased insurance premiums and war-related risks linked to disruptions across the Gulf and wider West Asian maritime corridor.

The intervention was designed to help exporters manage additional logistics and insurance costs while maintaining trade flows with affected markets.

What does the extension mean for exporters?

The extension provides continued insurance-cost protection for eligible exporters while shipping and security conditions in the region remain uncertain.

For containerised exports to Gulf markets, including temperature-sensitive cargo transported in reefer containers, the premium cap provides greater predictability in insurance costs as exporters manage ongoing freight and maritime risks.