The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) has issued the Export Entry (Post-Export Conversion in Relation to Instrument-Based Scheme) Regulations, 2025, replacing the Shipping Bill (Post Export Conversion in Relation to Instrument-Based Scheme) Regulations, 2022. These regulations streamline post-export amendments to shipping bills and export entries, ensuring greater clarity and compliance.
Key Highlights.
1️ Applicability & Definitions
- The regulations cover post-export conversion of export entries related to instrument-based schemes.
- Export entry includes Shipping Bills, Bills of Export, and postal/courier exports under the Customs Act, 1962.
- Jurisdictional Chief Commissioner & Commissioner of Customs will oversee approvals.
2️ Application & Time Limit
- Exporters must file a written request within one year from the clearance date.
- Extension of up to six months can be granted by the Commissioner of Customs.
- Chief Commissioner of Customs may extend it further by six months in exceptional cases.
- For entries filed before 22nd February 2022, the time limit will be counted from the enforcement date of these regulations.
3️ Approval & Processing
- Conversion requests must be backed by documentary evidence available at the time of export.
- A decision on conversion should be made within 30 days of filing.
- A fee must be paid as per the Levy of Fees (Customs Documents) Regulations, 1970.
4️ Conditions & Restrictions
- Exporters must fulfill all conditions of the new scheme they are converting to.
- Any benefits availed under the previous scheme must be reversed before conversion.
- No conversion will be allowed if:
- The exporter has violated customs regulations.
- The export entry was not related to an instrument-based scheme, drawback, or export obligations.
5️ Regulatory Alignment
- All previous references to the 2022 regulations in rules, circulars, or notifications will now refer to the 2025 regulations.
Impact on Exporters
- Enhanced Flexibility – Allows businesses to amend shipping bills even after export.
- Improved Compliance – Ensures that conversion requests meet strict conditions.
- Faster Processing – CBIC aims for a 30-day decision window for all applications.
This regulatory update strengthens India’s export framework, promoting efficiency and trade facilitation. Exporters should take note of the revised guidelines to ensure compliance and hassle-free processing of post-export amendments.
Notification Reference: Customs
No. 21/2025-Customs (N.T.)
03/04/2025