goods and service tax
In her address for International Customs Day, the Hon’ble Finance Minister emphasized the integral role of Indian Customs in enhancing economic security, facilitating trade, and serving national interests. The Visakhapatnam Zone marked this occasion with the release of a short film titled "Right Turn," which illustrates Customs' evolving mission under "Mission Karmayogi." Officers from the Vijayawada Customs (Preventive) also demonstrated their humanitarian commitment by pledging to donate organs.
The CBIC showcased its efforts in compliance and trade facilitation at the GST and Customs pavilion during the event in Prayagraj. This pavilion featured a variety of creative materials, brochures, and tutorial videos, underlining the initiatives undertaken to improve taxpayer services and streamline compliance processes. The contributions made by the Directorate General of Taxpayer Services and CGST Allahabad in raising awareness about GST and Customs are commendable.
Significant enforcement actions occurred last week. The Special Intelligence and Investigation Branch (SIIB) at Mundra Customs intercepted a suspected consignment violating intellectual property rights, discovering 8 million sticks of counterfeit "Gold Flake Honey Dew" cigarettes worth Rs. 13.6 crore. This interception, based on actionable intelligence, revealed a breach of the Intellectual Property Rights (Imported Goods) Enforcement Rules, 2007.
In another enforcement operation, the Jaipur Zonal Unit of DGGI dismantled a large-scale tax evasion scheme involving fraudulent clearances of iron and steel products. Investigations unveiled that suppliers were using invoices from non-existent companies, successfully eluding detection during transit. Searches at 15 locations across Rajasthan unearthed incriminating evidence, revealing unaccounted supplies of approximately 13 lakh tonnes of iron goods valued around Rs. 4,000 crore, leading to an estimated GST evasion of Rs. 700 crore. Currently, seven individuals have been arrested in connection with this case.
The following key initiatives have been established as part of Customs modernization:
Single Electronic Bond (SEB): Introduced through Circular No. 4/2025-Cus dated 17th February 2025, this system simplifies procedures by replacing multiple bonds for importers and exporters.
Automated Refunds: From 1st April 2025, all refund applications must be submitted online via ICEGATE.
AEO Agreement with New Zealand: In March 2025, a Mutual Recognition Arrangement (MRA) was signed to facilitate trade for AEO-certified businesses, enhancing operational efficiencies.
The highlights from International Customs Day and subsequent events showcase the ongoing commitment of Indian Customs to evolve and adapt to new challenges while maintaining high standards of service. The relentless efforts in enforcement, modernization, and community service illustrate a promising future for Customs in India.