New Delhi, Mar 8: The Central government has relaxed customs procedures for export consignments returning to India after disruptions in key maritime routes forced several ships to turn back mid-voyage.
The decision comes amid shipping disruptions in the region, including the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, which prevented vessels carrying Indian export cargo from reaching their destination ports. As a result, a number of ships have returned to Indian ports with consignments that had already completed export clearance.
In a circular, the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) announced a simplified process for handling such cargo when it arrives back at Indian ports. The temporary relaxation has been introduced to address concerns raised by exporters and shipping companies and will remain in force for 15 days from the date of the circular.
Under the revised arrangement, containers returning to India can be unloaded at port terminals without filing the usual import documentation, including a Bill of Entry. However, customs authorities will verify shipping documents before allowing the containers to be unloaded.
Officials will also cross-check container details with the corresponding shipping bills and ensure that the container seals remain intact. If any seal is found tampered with or broken, the container will be subjected to a detailed inspection.
The CBIC has also permitted exporters to cancel shipping bills for such consignments even after the Export General Manifest (EGM) has been filed. Once cancelled, the information will be shared with agencies including the Reserve Bank of India and the Directorate General of Foreign Trade. Exporters who have already received tax refunds or incentives will be required to return the benefits.
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