In response to the shipping disruptions caused by tensions around the Strait of Hormuz, the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) has announced temporary relaxations in port procedures for export consignments that are being forced to return to Indian ports.
The relief measures aim to support exporters and shipping operators dealing with logistical challenges along key West Asian trade routes.
According to a circular issued by the customs authority, export containers that were unable to reach their overseas destinations due to disruptions may now be unloaded at the same Indian port from which they originally departed without completing standard import formalities such as filing a Bill of Entry.
The simplified procedure will remain in force for 15 days. Customs officials will verify container details, match them with shipping documentation, and check the integrity of container seals before permitting cargo to be moved back to exporters.
To ensure that exporters do not inadvertently claim export incentives for shipments that never reached foreign ports, customs authorities will cancel the relevant shipping bills and associated Let Export Orders (LEO).
Information regarding such cancellations will be shared through the ICEGATE system with the Reserve Bank of India and the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) to prevent incentive claims or foreign exchange realization processes from being triggered.
Officials clarified that if a vessel had already docked at a foreign port before returning to India without unloading the cargo, the shipment would still be treated as an export under existing rules. In such cases, exporters would not lose their export status despite the vessel’s return.
The temporary measures were introduced after reports from customs field formations and exporters indicated that several vessels were returning to Indian ports because of disruptions in shipping routes through West Asia. Authorities stated that the relaxation is intended to reduce procedural hurdles, maintain cargo flow, and provide immediate operational relief to exporters affected by the ongoing maritime uncertainty.
Notification Details
Circular No. 09/2026-Customs
Date: 08/03/2026
