In a significant enforcement action, the Special Intelligence and Investigation Branch (SIIB) of Chennai (Port) has seized two containers with an estimated value of ₹18.9 crore. The goods, which were falsely declared as plastic items and photo frames, were found to contain restricted cosmetics and BIS-regulated toys.
According to customs officials, the seized cosmetics fall under the regulatory framework of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940, requiring mandatory approvals for import. Meanwhile, the toys are subject to the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) certification, which ensures compliance with safety and quality norms before entering the Indian market.
Further scrutiny of the consignment has led to the initiation of an Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) verification process concerning the cosmetics. Authorities suspect potential violations of trademark and brand protections, necessitating a detailed examination.
Customs officials stated that the misdeclaration of goods was an attempt to evade regulatory scrutiny and import restrictions. Investigations are underway to trace the importers and assess their compliance history.
This seizure underscores the vigilance of SIIB-Chennai (Port) in preventing unlawful imports and safeguarding consumer interests. The authorities have reiterated their commitment to strict enforcement of trade regulations and intellectual property laws at Indian ports.
Further developments in the investigation are expected as customs officials continue to probe the matter.
