Compliance of International Standards - wood packaging material for exports - CBEC Instructions routinely flouted
BOARD had in Circular No. 14/2009 - Cus dated 06.05.2009 directed that all the Customs field formations should verify whether the export goods packed with raw or solid wood packaging material comply with the ISPM No. 15 or are accompanied by a phytosanitary certificate with the treatment endorsed issued by the agencies which are accredited / certified by DAC. In case of non-compliance, the matter may be referred to the Plant Quarantine authorities for proper treatment of export goods before their release.
This was reiterated by Board Circular No. 13/2011 - Cus dated 28-02-2011.
Despite explicit provisions, it has been reported that in a number of export consignments have been found non compliant by other Customs administrations especially European Union on the ground of non-adherence/infringement of phytosanitary standards prescribed therein. Ministry of Agriculture has repeatedly expressed concerns over increasing number of such cases and desired remedial action be taken to check export of consignments not meeting required phytosanitary specifications i.e. ISPM - 15.
Now, Board has taken a serious note and reiterates that no export consignments packed with raw or solid wood packaging material shall be allowed clearance which is found deficient on meeting phytosanitary requirements ISPM - 15.
Non compliance on the part of officers shall be viewed seriously.
So, now only a serious note is taken and one more lapse, a serious view will be taken and after that? They will all forget it and life will go on.
Instead of saying a serious view will be taken why can't the Board take serious action when its directions are flouted with callous impunity?
CBEC Instruction in F. No.450/19/2005-Cus.IV Dated: September 16, 2013