RBI Extends Export Realisation Timelines: What Businesses Need to Know

The Reserve Bank of India has introduced a significant amendment to the Foreign Exchange Management (Export of Goods & Services) Regulations, 2015 through its notification dated 13 November 2025. The update provides exporters with much-needed flexibility by extending key timelines related to export realisation and write-off of outstanding export proceeds.

1. Export Realisation Period Extended: 9 Months → 15 Months

Earlier, exporters were required to realise and repatriate the value of goods/services to India within nine months. The new amendment increases this period to fifteen months, recognising the delays and supply chain disruptions affecting global trade.
This extended window gives exporters additional breathing room to manage overseas collections, especially in markets facing economic slowdowns or logistical bottlenecks.

2. Write-off Period Tripled: 1 Year → 3 Years

Under Regulation 15, the time limit for authorised dealers to write off unrealised export proceeds has been expanded from one year to three years.
This is particularly beneficial in cases involving disputes, quality claims, or buyers experiencing financial distress. A longer window ensures that genuine exporters are not penalised for delays beyond their control.

3. Why This Amendment Matters

The global trade environment continues to be volatile, with fluctuating demand, geopolitical tensions, increased shipping costs, and longer settlement cycles.
By extending these timelines, RBI aims to:

• Reduce compliance pressure on exporters
• Support long-term trade relationships
• Align export regulations with real-world trade conditions
• Facilitate smoother banking and documentation processes

4. Impact on Exporters and Banks

For exporters, this amendment improves liquidity management and reduces the risk of regulatory non-compliance.
For banks and AD Category-I institutions, it adjusts monitoring timelines and allows greater flexibility in assessing export accounts before initiating follow-up or write-off actions.