India, Jan. 21 -- Ahead of the Union Budget 2026-27, the India Cellular and Electronics Association (ICEA) has submitted a set of recommendations focused on customs duty rationalisation, correction of inverted duty structures, and operational reforms affecting electronics manufacturing. The proposals aim to improve cost competitiveness, encourage local value addition, and address long-standing classification and procedural issues.

ICEA has sought a reduction in Basic Customs Duty (BCD) on microphone, receiver and speaker assemblies used in mobile phones from 15% to 10% under HSN 85177990 and 85182990. Although these components account for only around 1% of a handset's bill of materials, ICEA argues that higher duties add to the final cos...