24 by 7 customs clearances at ports in India from July 15
In a move calculated to lower transaction costs for the exim trade, the Revenue Department of the Finance Ministry has decided that Customs authorities will clear export consignments all 24 hours at Major Ports from July 15.
A Revenue Department official explained that with this objective, there will be a trial period of 45 days at the ports of Visakhapatnam, Kolkata, Mundra, Okha, Sikka, New Mangalore, JNP, Mumbai, Paradip, Gopalpur, Ennore and Chennai.
This move was strongly recommended by a Task Force of the Commerce Department which identified 14 Customs clearance locations for the purpose.
The Revenue Department official added that "This recommendation has been accepted by the government."
A communication to the Chief Commissioners of Customs has been made to this effect. Shipments by sea account for around 80% of the country's global trade.
During the 45 day trial period, Customs services would be available all 24 hours to ensure delivery of export goods and imports under the risk management system, besides assessment and examination of import and export goods.
The letter to the Chief Customs Commissioners stated that "Based upon the success achieved, subject to getting additional staff sanction and custodians, banks and other related agencies agreeing to provide necessary complementary services, a decision will be taken by the board to expand the services to other Customs locations."
Reacting to the move, Mr Ajay Sahai director general of Federation of Indian Export Organisations said that it would certainly reduce transaction costs as also curtail pilferage and wastage. He pointed out that "Unlike airports, where Customs clearance is fast, the waiting period at the country's seaports is around two-three days."
(Source: Exim News Service)
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