India has extended quantitative restrictions (QR) on low ash metallurgical coke (LAM coke) imports for another six months, from July 1, 2025, to December 31, 2025. The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) issued the notification on June 30, maintaining country-wise quotas.

The total import volume remains at about 1.42 million tons. This extension is a setback for Indian steelmakers, who opposed the restrictions, stating it hinders expansion plans due to difficulty sourcing preferred grades domestically.

The government's decision to extend the curbs aims to encourage local procurement despite a recent downward trend in imported coking coal prices. India, the world's second-largest crude steel producer, initially considered this extension in February to promote domestic sourcing, with the Steel Ministry supporting the move in May.

This restriction applies to goods under HS codes 27040020, 27040030, 27040040, and 27040090.