The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) has issued a public advisory reminding eligible importers that 16 February 2026 is the last date for payment of customs duty under the Deferred Payment Facility for specified Bills of Entry.
The alert applies to importers who have availed the Deferred Payment of Customs Duty scheme for Bills of Entry that were returned for payment during the period 01.02.2026 to 15.02.2026. According to the advisory, failure to remit the duty by the due date will attract applicable interest under the provisions of the Customs Act.
What the Advisory States
CBIC clarified that the deferred payment facility covers Bills of Entry returned for payment between 1 February 2026 and 15 February 2026.
The consolidated due date for such payments is 16 February 2026.
Late payment of duty will attract interest, as per statutory provisions.
The reminder has been issued as part of CBIC’s ongoing efforts to ensure timely compliance and to avoid unnecessary penal consequences for importers.
Deferred Payment Facility – A Brief Overview
The Deferred Payment of Customs Duty facility allows eligible importers to clear goods without immediate payment of customs duty at the time of clearance. Instead, payment can be made on a deferred basis within the prescribed timelines. The scheme is designed to ease liquidity pressures and facilitate trade by improving cash flow management.
However, the benefit comes with strict compliance requirements, and delayed remittances may result in interest liability and other consequences.
Advisory to Importers
CBIC has urged all eligible importers to verify Bills of Entry returned for payment during the specified period. Ensure payment is completed on or before 16 February 2026. Regularly monitor official communications and compliance portals.
The advisory forms part of CBIC’s broader digital outreach initiatives, including updates through official social media handles and WhatsApp channels.
Importers are advised to take immediate action to avoid interest liability and maintain a clean compliance record.
