Indian customs could implement 100% checks of Chinese import deliveries at ports on the back of strict security concerns following tensions at the border, people familiar with the development said. The step, perhaps is aimed at dejecting Chinese imports, could lead to set-backs in the release of consignments.
However, the government played down the move with officials saying that no such instructions had been issued and containers may have been held up on the basis of risk or intelligence input.
Also, Chennai is one of the first ports to go for such closer inspection of Chinese imports, they revealed that, adding that this is likely to be expanded to all major ports.
Currently, 70% of total imports goes through the green channel mode once the bill of entry is filed successfully. This happens online with little or no chaos; only 30% is examined.
The physical examination includes matching description to bill of entry, whether the goods are aptly valued or not. Also, if they are eligible for exemption of duty. The revised and updated processes will delay clearance, mainly due to low staffing on account of coronavirus ongoing pandemic. In many cases, goods will have to be unpacked in the presence of importers for checking.