Customs Manual 2025
Context:
The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) has released the Customs Manual 2025, incorporating all procedural changes, including automated processes, introduced up to February 1, 2025.
What is the Customs Manual, and Why Has it Been Issued?
- Reference: The Customs Manual is a comprehensive reference document issued by CBIC, offering clear and concise explanations of various customs procedures and processes.
- Covering Areas: Covering areas such as customs classification, valuation, warehousing, export promotion schemes, the Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) program, and the Customs (Administration of Rules of Origin under Trade Agreements) Rules, 2020 (CAROTAR), the manual serves as a valuable resource.
- While periodic updates have been a standard practice, this edition, which follows the last update from December 31, 2022, incorporates changes made up to February 1, 2025.
- It is particularly useful for those new to Customs and those seeking a quick yet comprehensive overview of key topics in the field.
Impact on Importers and Exporters
- Previous Outdated Information: Prior to this update, businesses and importers/exporters relying on the previous Customs Manual may have encountered outdated information.
- Up-to-Date Resource: The updated version now provides an accurate and up-to-date resource to ensure compliance with the latest customs procedures and regulations.
- However, while the manual serves as a useful guide, businesses should analyse legal provisions in detail before implementing any aspect of the Customs Act in their operations and should not rely solely on the manual’s content.
Major Updates in Customs Manual 2025
The primary objective of this iteration is to update the existing 35 chapters covered in the Customs Manual 2023 while introducing a new chapter on “Faceless Assessment,” reflecting the increasing emphasis on digitisation within Customs operations. Key updates include:
- Electronic Cash Ledger (ECL): Introduced in April 2023, this system allows importers and exporters to deposit advances for customs duty payments and facilitates all customs duty transactions.
- Exchange Rate Automation Module (ERAM): Implemented in July 2024, this automates the publication of exchange rates for specified currencies on the Indian Customs Electronic Gateway (ICEGATE) twice a month, enhancing accuracy and efficiency for importers and exporters.
- Voluntary/Self-Initiated Payment (SIP) Module: Introduced in December 2024 and effective from January 1, 2025, this module enables businesses to make online payments for 26 specific customs-related transactions.
- It replaces the traditional TR-6 manual payment system and is accessible to registered users for payments related to past imports and exports, excluding duties on live consignment clearance.
Where to Find More Information?
- The Customs Manual is intended as a reference tool for trade and industry, simplifying complex topics.
- However, it should not be considered the primary source of legal information.
- Stakeholders should refer to the Customs Act, rules, regulations, notifications, public notices, and circulars issued by CBIC, all accessible at https://taxinformation.cbic.gov.in.
- The manual itself advises that professional guidance should be sought when acting on its content to ensure legal compliance.
Aligning with the New Guidelines
- The Customs Manual 2025 does not introduce new legal provisions but serves as an updated version that consolidates changes made between January 2023 and February 2025.
- It is a valuable resource for new professionals entering the customs field to familiarise themselves with revised processes and regulations.
- Customs and trade compliance professionals can also reference it for insights into the 36 chapters covering various aspects of customs procedures.
By providing an updated and structured overview of customs regulations, Customs Manual 2025 ensures that businesses can efficiently navigate the evolving customs landscape while maintaining compliance with the latest procedural developments.
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