RBI plans more curbs on gold

New Delhi, Nov. 17: The Reserve Bank on Monday said it is in discussions with the government to curb gold imports which have seen a sharp surge in the recent months putting pressure on the CAD.

“With the surge in gold import which has been witnessed, it warranted a relook. Discussions are still going on between the RBI and the government of India. Once we know what are the discussions, further view will be taken,” RBI deputy governor S. S. Mundra said.

Worried over surge in gold imports, the government last week held a meeting to discuss ways to curb the rising inward shipment of the precious metal. Gold imports have touched 150 tonnes in October, as against 24 tonnes a year ago. The Reserve Bank of India in August last year had imposed severe restrictions on gold imports and raised import duty to 10 per cent in order to check burgeoning current account deficit and sliding rupee.

The steps by the central government helped lower gold imports substantially but also increased instances of smuggling. In May, the previous government, eased certain rules and allowed private agencies to import gold under 80: 20 scheme.

This facility was available to select banks only and other entities were barred from importing the metal. Under the 80: 20 scheme, an importer has to ensure that at least one- fifth of every lot of imported gold is exclusively made available for the purpose of exports and the balance for domestic use.