India bans import of Chinese Mobile Phones

New Delhi: The Indian government has banned the import of Chinese mobiles, which are gaining grounds in Indian market thick and fast. The government ban came on mobile phones, dairy products and toys made in China. The latest development may result in a conflict between both countries on the WTO arena. The Chinese toys and dairy products were banned earlier. The ban was now extended by a few more months.

Since most Chinese mobiles come without IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) numbers, they are difficult to track in case of theft or any other incident. According to estimates, over eight lakh mobile phones without IMEI number, are being imported from China every month. They are much cheaper as compared to other branded phones.

The government has also banned the import of toys from China till January 2010. Only those toys will be banned, which do not meet the international safety standards and norms. The ban on import of milk and dairy products from China, has been extended till December 24, 2009.

A large number of countries had banned the Chinese milk products after they were found contaminated and resulted in death of several people in that country last year.