India quickly backtracked on new rules requiring technology companies to secure licenses to import goods into the country over the weekend.
After prompting Apple Inc (NASDAQ:AAPL) and Samsung Electronics (KRX:005930) to seize shipments of computers and tablets with a surprise announcement of new rules on Thursday, Friday saw the country delay the plans.
“Import consignments can be cleared until October 31 without a license,” Indian trade directorate general Vanijya Bhawan said in a statement.
Some 44 manufacturers registered interest in local incentive schemes to encourage domestic production in the wake of the initial announcement, according to the Indian media.
However, tech giants Apple and Samsung were among those to seize product shipments into India, with the initial announcement having been introduced with immediate effect.
Laptops, tablets and different types of personal and ultrasmall computers had been targeted under the rule change.
Though limited information was given, the move was likely a bid to encourage domestic production of computer devices, with the country having successfully tempted smartphone makers but largely faltered in luring manufacturers of bigger devices.
The new rules will now come into force on November 1, renewing the nation’s 'Make in India' push, which offers the likes of subsidies and funding for local manufacturers.