FCC

CBIC Introduces Trade Facilitative Measures for Air Cargo

2025-04-29

The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) has introduced several trade facilitative measures relating to air cargo and transhipment, in line with announcements made in the Union Budget Speech 2025-26.

For ease of doing business, CBIC has waived the transhipment permit fee for all movements under the transhipment procedure with effect from twenty-fourth April 2025. This follows the notification issued under No. 30/2025-Cus (N.T). The move addresses delays caused by the growing volume of transhipped cargo.

Further, CBIC has streamlined the customs protocol for Unit Load Devices (ULD). Now, air carriers or air console agents can temporarily import ULDs outside customs areas using a Continuity Bond. This simplifies procedures previously applicable only to marine containers since 2005, while importers may still opt to take direct responsibility for re-export if preferred.

The ‘All-India National Transhipment Bond’ facility operational since 2022, continues to help avoid multiple bond submissions at various customs stations. Online filing of transhipment applications via Indian Customs Electronic Gateway (ICEGATE) has also been enabled, reducing the need for physical visits.

These measures aim to enhance efficiency, streamline compliance, and support growth in air cargo logistics.

Source: Press Information Bureau Delhi