Import Restriction on Palladium, Rhodium, and Iridium

The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry has issued notification to restrict import of alloys of Palladium, Rhodium, and Iridium containing more than 1% gold by weight.

• Palladium, rhodium, and iridium are added to gold to create a white, lustrous and durable alloy.
• The moves aims to regulate the import of gold in the garb of chemical compounds or any other form.
• Palladium, rhodium, and iridium are all platinum group metals (PGMs) known for their high melting points, resistance to corrosion, and unique catalytic properties.
• They share similar physical and chemical characteristics and often occur together in the same mineral deposits.