The customs department has authorised importers or clearing agents to examine goods for themselves in the presence of the relevant officers, who are now only responsible for supervising de-sealing of containers; it is learnt here on Friday. Sources said that customs department in order to facilitate the trade and to streamline the procedure with regard to permission to importer or his authorised clearing agent for prior examination in terms of 1st proviso to sub-section (1) of section 79 of the Customs Act, 1969, made amendments to the procedure.
They said that importers or authorised clearing agents were now required to file a written request including personal details in the WeBOC system to the additional collector of the relevant Wharf/Terminal operator 1st proviso to sub-section (1) of section 79 of the Customs Act, 1969 for examination of imported goods by himself prior to filing of goods declaration.
Subsequently, competent officers will verify the veracity of the documents including bill of lading, IGM, etc, before approving examination request submitted by importers or authorised clearing agents under the aforesaid section. Moreover, sources said terminal operators had also been directed to ground containers immediately after receiving go-ahead from competent officers for examination. Sources said importers or authorised clearing agents shall then examine goods for themselves in the presence of the officers, supervising the de-sealing.
They said the customs department had now restricted deputed officers to verify the list of goods produced by importers or authorised clearing agents. Consequently, after completion of the examination, importers or authorised clearing agents will be required to file goods declaration within 48 hours to process it in the WeBOC system. Sources said if any discrepancy was detected by assessment officers in the goods declaration, importers or authorised clearing agents shall be penalised under the relevant provisions of law.
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