National Conference on Strategic Trade Controls 2026 Held

The National Conference on Strategic Trade Controls (NCSTC) 2026 was organised in New Delhi by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade in collaboration with the Ministry of External Affairs, the Federation of Indian Export Organisations and other government and industry stakeholders. The conference served as a key platform to deliberate on India’s Strategic Trade Control framework amid evolving global technology and security dynamics.

Focus on SCOMET and Strategic Trade Controls

NCSTC 2026 centred on policies and procedures governing the export of dual-use and sensitive goods, technologies, software, materials and equipment regulated under the SCOMET framework. The discussions enabled the exchange of international experiences and best practices related to strategic trade controls, with an emphasis on enhancing awareness, compliance and coordination among government, industry, academia, research institutions and international partners.

Release of Strategic Trade Control Handbook

During the inaugural session, the third edition of the Handbook on India’s Strategic Trade Control System was released. The handbook has been prepared by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade in partnership with the D&ISA Division of the Ministry of External Affairs, with inputs from multiple government departments and industry experts. It provides detailed guidance on India’s strategic trade control policies, procedures and compliance requirements for exporters and other stakeholders.

Senior-Level Participation and Thematic Sessions

The event witnessed participation from senior officials, including Commerce Secretary “Rajesh Agrawal”, CBIC Chairman “Vivek Chaturvedi”, Director General of Foreign Trade “Lav Agarwal”, and Joint Secretary (D&ISA), MEA “Muanpuii Saiawi”. Seven thematic sessions covered the SCOMET policy framework, licensing procedures, enforcement mechanisms, compliance systems, supply chain security, the Authorised Economic Operator programme and Intangible Technology Transfer.

Imporatnt Facts for Exams

• SCOMET governs export of dual-use and sensitive items in India.
• DGFT is the nodal authority for India’s Strategic Trade Control system.
• Intangible Technology Transfer covers non-physical transfer of know-how.
• Strategic trade controls balance national security and trade facilitation.

Emerging Technologies and Global Trade Balance

Sector-specific discussions addressed chemicals and biotechnology, aerospace and space, defence exports and munitions controls. Emerging and frontier technologies such as quantum items, advanced computing, semiconductors, additive manufacturing and cyber security were examined in light of recent SCOMET updates. With over 500 participants from India and abroad, NCSTC 2026 reaffirmed India’s commitment to a transparent and effective strategic trade control regime that safeguards non-proliferation objectives while enabling legitimate high-technology trade.