FTP - Simplification of Procedures - Only three Documents for Export/Import
IN Circular No. dated 12.01.2015, the CBEC stated, "Simplification of Customs procedures for enhanced ease of doing business and trade facilitation is the top priority of the Government. One of the identified areas for such simplification is reduction in the number of mandatory documents required by Customs for import and export of goods."
So, the Board has decided that as a measure of simplification, in case an importer/exporter submits a commercial invoice cum packing list that contain the required data fields/ information in addition to the details in a commercial invoice, a separate packing list should not be insisted upon by Customs. However, the option should be given to the importer/exporter to do so.
Taking this further, the DGFT has issued a Notification yesterday stipulating that only three documents each would be mandatory for exports and imports.
Exports:
1. Bill of Lading/Airway Bill.
2. Commercial Invoice cum Packing List. (Separate Commercial Invoice and Packing List would also be accepted.)
3. Shipping Bill/Bill of Export.
Imports:
1. Bill of Lading/Airway Bill.
2. Commercial Invoice cum Packing List. (Separate Commercial Invoice and Packing List would also be accepted.)
3. Bill of Entry.
However,
For export or import of specific goods or category of goods, which are subject to any restrictions/policy conditions or require NOC or product specific compliances under any statute, the regulatory authority concerned may notify additional documents for purposes of export or import.
In specific cases of export or import, the regulatory authority concerned may electronically or in writing seek additional documents or information, as deemed necessary to ensure legal compliance.
DGFT Notification No. 114/(RE-2013)/2009-2014, Dated: March 12, 2015