RELIEF export scheme: Commerce Department extends Component II timelines
Why in the news
On 2 October 2026 the Department of Commerce announced that the timelines of Component II of the RELIEF intervention have been extended, because geopolitical disruption in West Asia continues to affect shipping across the Gulf and nearby regions. The new end date was not specified in the release.
Key facts
- RELIEF: Resilience & Logistics Intervention for Export Facilitation, part of the Export Promotion Mission.
- Launch: 19 March 2026, for exporters facing sharp freight hikes, costlier insurance and war-linked risks.
- Extension: made through Notification No. 37/2026-27 dated 30 September 2026.
- Component II: 95% risk protection through ECGC for exporters shipping to notified West Asia regions.
- Eligible policies: Stand Alone Policies or Whole Turnover Policies taken on or after 16 March 2026.
- Premiums are held at pre-disruption rates during the eligible period.
| Shipment type | Covered under Component II? |
|---|---|
| Full Container Load (FCL) | Yes |
| Less than Container Load (LCL) | Yes |
| Reefer containers | Yes |
| Energy shipments | No |
About RELIEF
RELIEF was designed as a targeted support package so that Indian exports keep moving despite uncertainty in maritime logistics. By keeping credit-insurance cover high and premiums stable, the government aims to sustain trade flows and protect export resilience while the West Asia situation persists.
Exam angle
- Remember the full form of RELIEF and its launch date (19 March 2026).
- ECGC risk cover under Component II is 95%.
- Energy shipments are outside the scheme; FCL, LCL and reefer cargo are inside it.