The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) has permitted international transshipment of both Full Container Load (FCL) and Less than Container Load (LCL) cargo across all ports and airports in India Strait of Hormuz disruptions.
The CBIC noted that disruptions in maritime routes have severely impacted cargo movement worldwide. Referring to earlier circulars issued in March 2026 addressing similar concerns, the Board acknowledged multiple representations from trade bodies and field formations seeking extension and simplification of transshipment facilities.
To mitigate these challenges, the Board has expanded the scope of international transshipment, including cases involving movement through multiple Customs stations. The objective is to facilitate smoother cargo flow and reduce congestion at ports and inland container depots (ICDs).
Each Customs Zone must appoint a Nodal Officer not below the rank of Additional or Joint Commissioner to oversee and expedite transshipment requests. Their contact details must be published immediately via public notices.
Permissions for international transshipment will be granted by jurisdictional Assistant/Deputy Commissioners on a priority basis.
Consent must be obtained electronically from both originating and destination Customs stations. Destination authorities must verify storage, infrastructure, and logistics readiness before granting approval. Cargo movement must occur under strict Customs control, including container sealing where required.
Custodians at all stages—origin, transit, and destination—are responsible for safe storage, proper handling, and accurate accounting of cargo. Any discrepancies must be reported immediately.
The circular also addresses issues faced by exporters whose cargo is stranded at ICDs or gateway ports:
- Cancellation of Shipping Bills (LEO): Exporters will be allowed to cancel Let Export Orders (LEO) to facilitate re-routing or return of cargo, without requiring physical movement back to the originating ICD.
- Expeditious Processing: Authorities have been directed to process such requests swiftly and encourage electronic communication to minimize delays and paperwork.
The Board highlighted a specific issue concerning cargo from Bangladesh routed via Kolkata/Mumbai and currently lying at Jawaharlal Nehru Port (JNPT). Temporary facilitation for onward transshipment through Mumbai Airport is under examination.
The CBIC has reiterated the importance of implementing the Sea Cargo Manifest and Transshipment Regulations (SCMTR), 2018. It emphasized that early operationalisation of this electronic framework will enhance efficiency in cargo manifest filing and transshipment processes, especially during crisis situations.
The relaxation measures, including procedural simplifications, will remain in force until April 15, 2026, as aligned with earlier Circular No. 12/2026-Customs.
