Customs - Simplification - One bond for one year instead of bond for each entry
THERE is no uniformity regarding Customs procedure adopted at some ports/ Customs stations which increases transaction cost and time of clearance. This also results in major constraints in making Indian ports international transshipment hubs.
A Committee was set up by Ministry of Shipping for simplification of Shipping Customs procedure. Board has examined the recommendations of the Committee in consultation with identified Chief Commissioners of Customs.
The port clearance requires submission of numerous documents on behalf of other agencies Lighthouse Dues Certificate, NOC for Immigration, Port Health Certificate, etc.At present, the port clearance is given on execution of a bond/guarantee by the Steamer Agents each time a vessel enters.
As a measure of simplification, Board has decided to give an option to the steamer agent to give a continuity bond /guarantee for a period of one year for the said purpose. This would reduce the number of documents submitted each time the vessel enters.