Budget 2026 Eases Customs on Cancer Drugs, Baggage
New Delhi: In the Union Budget 2026-27 presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, the government announced customs duty exemptions on 17 key cancer drugs and medicines to lower treatment costs for patients. The budget also extended duty-free imports to medicines and food for seven additional rare diseases.
Personal Baggage Duty Reduced
The tariff rate on goods imported for personal use has been reduced from 20% to 10%, easing rules for travellers and reducing costs on items brought in as baggage. Simplification of customs procedures and a trust-based system with technology integration are also part of the reforms.
Broader Customs Reforms
Budget measures aim to rationalise the customs regime, cut duties on select health and essential items, and streamline clearance to support trade and ease of living. Officials said the changes will benefit patients, travellers, and businesses relying on imported components.
