MOOWR Scheme: Application Submission Open.

In a significant update for businesses and stakeholders involved in bonded manufacturing under the Customs Act, the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) has issued a clarification regarding the discontinuation of the online application facility hosted on the Invest India microsite.

Background

CBIC Circular No. 34/2019-Customs dated 01.10.2019 had earlier introduced a streamlined digital application process for bonded manufacturing. Paragraph 16 of the Circular had announced a collaboration with Invest India under the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), to facilitate applicants via a dedicated microsite. The platform allowed users to:

• Access comprehensive information about the scheme
• Submit digitized applications for a license under Section 58 and permission under Section 65 of the Customs Act
• Upload supporting documents online
• Generate printable application forms

The microsite (https://www.investindia.gov.in/bonded-manufacturing) was designed to simplify investor interaction and promote transparency in bonded warehousing operations.

What’s Changed?

As per the latest communication from CBIC, the digitized application facility hosted on the Invest India microsite will no longer be available for submission of applications. This development has been confirmed by Invest India.

Revised Procedure for Applicants

Businesses intending to obtain:

• A warehouse license under Section 58 of the Customs Act, 1962, and
• Permission to operate under Section 65 of the Act

must now submit their applications offline in the prescribed format directly to their respective jurisdictional Principal Commissioner / Commissioner of Customs.

Action Points for Stakeholders

• Discontinue the use of the Invest India microsite for application submission.
• Download and complete the prescribed offline application form.
• Submit the physical application along with requisite documents to the jurisdictional Customs authority.
• Customs field formations are instructed to guide stakeholders and ensure a smooth transition to the offline process.

Conclusion

While the discontinuation of the digital application system may appear to be a step back in the era of digitization, the CBIC continues to evaluate systems for improving ease of doing business. Stakeholders are advised to remain updated with future circulars and notifications that may introduce alternate digital options.

Notification Reference: Customs
Circular No. 18/2025- Customs
22 /07/2025