Revised import policy for integrated circuits
The notification has revised the import policy for integrated circuits from “free” to “Free subject to compulsory registration under Chip Imports Monitoring System”. The facility of online Registration for CHIMS will be available with effect from 01.08.2021.
DGFT has introduced a new online module for filing of electronic, paperless applications for export authorizations.
The applicant seeking export authorization for restricted items may apply online by navigating to the DGFT website (https://www.dgft.gov.in) -> Services -> Export Management Systems -> License for Restricted Exports.
DGFT extends the validity of Registration cum Membership Certificate till 30th September 2021.
The Export Promotion Councils (EPCs) issues RCMCs to its member, however due to COVID-19 pandemic, exporters may find it difficult to get re-validations of their RCMCs from their respective councils.
Import of inflammatory Diagnostic kits exempted from customs duty
The Department of Revenue has exempted from the whole of the duty of customs leviable on the import of Inflammatory Diagnostic (marker) kits, namely- IL6, D-Dimer, CRP(C-Reactive Protein), LDH (Lactate De-Hydrogenase), Ferritin, Pro Calcitonin (PCT) and blood gas reagents.
DGFT allows import of oxygen concentrators for personal use till 31st July 2021.
Import of goods, including those purchased from e-commerce portals, through post or courier, where Customs clearance is sought as gifts, is prohibited except for life saving drugs / medicines/ oxygen concentrators and Rakhi (but not gifts related to Rakhi).
DGFT Increases the fee for issuing Certificate of Origin.
The maximum Fees for issuing Certificate of Origin shall be Rs. 200 per certificate.
The Ministry of Finance exempts customs duty medical oxygens, vaccines for 3 months.
The Centre also directed customs officials to clear all import consignments, including life-saving drugs and oxygen equipment, used in COVID treatment on the highest priority.
DGFT sets up COVID-19 Helpdesk ‘ for International Trade related Issues.
The COVID-19 Helpdesk’ would look into issues relating to Department of Commerce/DGFT, Import and Export Licensing Issues, Customs clearance delays and complexities arising thereon, Import/Export documentation issues, Banking matters etc.
Ministry of Commerce and Industry launches “DGFT Trade Facilitation App” for Providing instant access to Exporters/Importers.
The Mobile Application provides Real-time trade policy updates, notifications,application status alert, tracking help requests and explore item-wise Export-Import policy & statistics,Track IC Portfolio.
DGFT grants Relaxation in late cut for MEIS applications for exports made in the F.Y. 2019-2020.
A relaxation in the late cut provisions has been provided for Shipping bills of the period 01.04.2019 to 31.03.2020, so that if such shipping bills are submitted on or before 30.09.2021, for an MEIS claim, no late cut would be applicable.