Exclusive-India 'screwed up': How the U.S. lobbied New Delhi to reverse laptop rules

The Indian flag, the U.S. flag and people miniatures with laptops are seen in this illustration taken March 10, 2024. REUTERS/Dado Ruvic/Illustration

NEW DELHI/WASHINGTON (Reuters) - India reversed a laptop licensing policy after behind-the-scenes lobbying by U.S. officials, who however remain concerned about New Delhi's compliance with WTO obligations and new rules it may issue, according to U.S. trade officials and government emails seen by Reuters.

In August, India imposed rules requiring firms like Apple, Dell and HP to obtain licences for all shipments of imported laptops, tablets, personal computers and servers, raising fears that the process could slow down sales. But New Delhi rolled back the policy within weeks, saying it will only monitor the imports and decide on next steps a year later.