“Import of parts of pocket lighters, gas fuelled, non-refillable or refillable lighters (cigarette lighters)… is restricted with immediate effect,” the directorate general of foreign trade (DGFT) said in a notification.
These products can be imported only against a valid license meant for restricted imports. During April-July this fiscal, the import of lighter parts was $3.8 million. It was $4.86 million in 2023-24.
Imports of cigarette lighters, priced less than Rs 20, are already prohibited. The import ban is also there on pocket lighters, gas-fuelled, non-refillable or refillable.
Last year, the government also issued mandatory quality standard norms for flame-producing lighters with a view to contain import of sub-standard goods and boost domestic manufacturing.