1. Overview
In this article, we'll discuss the recent change in the Import Policy conditions related to the import of Paper and Paper products by the government.
On May 25, 2022, the DGFT issued a notification changing the Import Policy condition of 201 tariff lines falling under Chapter 48 of the ITC HS code from "Free to import" to "Free subject to compulsory registration under the Paper Import Monitoring System [PIMS]."
In this Page, we'll explain what exactly PIMS is, why this monitoring system was introduced, which products or HSN codes it applies to for imports, the application procedure, required documents, etc. Additionally, towards the end, we'll cover important FAQs to address major confusions. This article aims to clear all your doubts and concepts regarding PIMS Registration. So, let’s get started.
2. What is PIMS Registration & Why it was introduced?
Before October 1, 2022, you could freely import any Paper/Paper Products without any restrictions.
However, from October 1, 2022, DGFT made PIMS Certificate compulsory, meaning that while you can still import freely without any restrictions, you must first register through a process known as PIMS Registration or obtain a PIMS Certificate. Failure to do so will result in Customs not clearing your consignment of paper products. Therefore, this registration is crucial.
The compulsory PIMS Registration condition was introduced by the government for the benefit of domestic paper players. The main motive behind its introduction is to continuously track and monitor the import of all paper products, which can help reduce imports, facilitate real-time changes in policy-making, and control dumping and under-invoicing.
The Paper Import Monitoring System covers 201 HS Codes falling under Chapter 48. You can check the list of all these HS codes in the PDF Document provided below:
Some major items covered include Duplicating Paper, Tissue paper, drawing paper, Kraft Paper, Kraft Liner, Other Uncoated paper, and Paperboard, among others.
3. Where and When to apply for a PIMS Certificate?
The PIMS registration process is entirely online. You do not apply for it through the DGFT website but through the website www.imports.gov.in
The next question that may come to your mind is when to apply for it and what is the deadline? The answer is that the deadline for PIMS online registration is 5 days before the arrival of the shipment, and the application window opens 75 days before the arrival of the shipment.
It is important to note that the PIMS registration number and expiry date should be included in the Bill of Entry; otherwise, Customs will not clear the shipment. Below, you can see a sample Image of the PIMS Certificate/Registration to understand how it looks.
Once you submit the application, you will immediately receive a PIMS registration number, which will be valid for 75 days only.
You can obtain one registration number for multiple bills of entries. Additionally, amendments cannot be made to the PIMS certificate after issuance, so if any changes are required, a new registration number must be applied for.
4. Required Documents, Details & Application Fees
While registering for PIMS online, it's essential to have your invoice, packing list, and bill of lading (BL) copy handy as the registration form requires numerous details.
Details Required for PIMS Registration
In the image, you can see the mandatory details that need to be filled out while registering for PIMS. You need to provide all the exporter's details, manufacturer's details, country of origin, detailed information about the imported product including technical specifications, quantity, value, etc.
DGFT also asks whether a similar item grade is available or manufactured in India. If yes, then you need to provide reasons why you still want to import it.
All this information enables the government to make data-driven decisions and implement relevant policy changes.
The government fees for application are only Rs. 500, and you can submit the application using either the digital signature or Aadhar method.
5. How can we assist you to get a PIMS Certificate?
Our experts assist you in getting the registration done under PIMS:
- We assist you in the documentation and guide you about the data which has to be kept ready to get PIMS registration.
- Assistance would be given in online application on online Portal.
- Coordination with issuing authority if any further clarification has been asked by them.
- Obtaining the registration number from the issuing authority instantly.
6. Why Afleo Group?
We only have the goal of providing very reliable services with the most competitive cost to the exporters under one roof.
Social Media Presence: We wish to get every opportunity to grow our relationships with our clients and for which we made our presence on each social networking site to update them about the latest Notifications, Circulars, Amendment done in foreign trade policies.
24/7 Telephonic Service: We believe in offering better and faster services to our clients who can't afford to wait until the morning for a problem to be fixed. We are just a phone call away, they just need to call or drop a mail and we try to reach them as soon as possible.
7. FAQ's
Yes, when SEZ/FTWZ/EOU units directly import products falling under PIMS, registration is compulsory.
Yes, PIMS registration is applicable for imports under Advance Authorisation, DFIA, and IGCR schemes.
Yes, PIMS registration is compulsory for imports via air mode. However, for samples of paper with a FOB value of up to Rs. 10,000, registration is exempted regardless of the quantity.
If advance information is not provided or incorrect information is provided during registration, the government may take strict action, including actions under the FTDR Act, 1992.
Why Afleo Consultants?
- We only have the goal of providing very reliable services with the most competitive cost to the exporters under one roof.
- Social Media Presence: We wish to get every opportunity to grow our relationships with our clients and for which we made our presence on each social networking sites to update them about the latest Notifications, Circulars, Amendment done in foreign trade policies.
- 24/7 Telephonic Service: We believe in offering better and faster services to our clients who can't afford to wait until the morning for a problem to be fixed we are just a phone call away, they just need to call or drop a mail and we try to reach them as soon as possible.
- We have a separate team for follow up with DGFT and have a great understanding of the working of DGFT office, which helps us in obtaining & Closing Advance licenses without delay.
Latest Updates on Advance Authorisation Scheme
- Notification No. 71/2023 Dated. 11th March 2024: Enabling provisions for import of inputs that are subjected to mandatory Quality Control Orders (QCOs) by Advance Authorisation holders, EOU and SEZ - As everyone knows, the Government is implementing Quality Control Orders (QCOs) to halt the import of sub-standard products. For example, the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has introduced QCOs for steel and various other products. According to the latest notification from the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), the import of such products is exempted from QCO if it is imported under an Advance Authorisation License or by 100% Export Oriented Units (EOUs). An additional condition is that imports will be subject to a pre-import condition, and when applying for the Advance Authorisation, the applicant must specifically endorse that exemption from mandatory QCO is being sought for this License. There are currently three Ministries/Departments i.e. Ministry of Steel / Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade [DPIIT] / Ministry of Textiles whose notifications on mandatory QCOs are exempted by DGFT.
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