𝗜𝗺𝗽𝗹𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗼𝗳 𝗦𝗲𝗮 𝗖𝗮𝗿𝗴𝗼 𝗠𝗮𝗻𝗶𝗳𝗲𝘀𝘁 & 𝗧𝗿𝗮𝗻𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗽𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗥𝗲𝗴𝘂𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀 (𝗦𝗖𝗠𝗧𝗥).

CBIC has reviewed the implementation of the Sea Cargo Manifest and Transhipment Regulations (SCMTR), 2018 and noted that while mandatory arrival messages by carriers are in place, the export and transhipment messages remain untested, leading to delays in full implementation.

🔹 Penal Provisions: As per Regulation 13 of SCMTR, non-compliance can attract a penalty of up to ₹50,000 (Notification No. 38/2018-Customs (N.T.), dated May 11, 2018). Stakeholders are expected to comply to avoid penalties.

🔹 Extension of Transition Period:

• The transitional provisions for SCMTR are extended until May 31, 2025.

• This extension allows stakeholders (carriers, shipping lines, freight forwarders, custodians, train operators) to test and file electronic declarations without penalty.

🔹 Guidance to Officers:

• Customs officers should avoid penal actions during this period if stakeholders are making genuine efforts to comply.

• Stakeholder progress should be monitored, and they should be encouraged to transition smoothly.

🔹 Outreach & Publicity:

• Chief Commissioners of Customs, in coordination with DG Systems, must conduct weekly outreach programs to ensure readiness.

• The Circular should be widely publicized via Trade/Public Notices.

Notification Reference: Customs
Circular No.10/2025- Customs
28/03/2025