A Guide to Paper Import Registration in India

The world of trade is constantly evolving, and so are the regulations governing it. In this era of globalization, where imports and exports are the lifeblood of economies, keeping a close eye on specific product categories is paramount. India, a burgeoning market for various industries, has introduced a crucial change in the import policy of paper products. The Paper Import Monitoring System (PIMS) is set to reshape how paper imports are regulated and tracked. This blog serves as a comprehensive guide to understanding PIMS, its significance, features, and the implications for importers in India.

An Overview of Paper Import Monitoring System (PIMS)

PIMS is a significant development introduced by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) in India. It involves the shift of the import policy for major paper products from 'Free' to 'Free subject to compulsory registration under PIMS.' While this change signifies a stricter approach to paper imports, it also aims to enhance transparency and accountability in the trade of these products.

Significance of PIMS

The introduction of PIMS holds several crucial objectives:

1. Curbing Imports Under 'Others' Category: PIMS aims to bring greater clarity to the import of paper and paper products by preventing them from being lumped under the vague "Others" category of tariff lines.

2. Countering Under-Invoicing: By mandating registration and detailed data submission, PIMS acts as a deterrent against under-invoicing of paper products, which could potentially distort the market.

3. Preventing Misdeclaration: The system is designed to deter the entry of prohibited goods through misdeclaration, ensuring that only authorized and safe products enter the market.

4. Enhancing Policy Formulation: PIMS facilitates better data analysis and helps in crafting well-informed trade policies, aligning them with the needs and demands of the domestic paper industry.

5. Promoting 'Make in India' and 'Atmanirbhar' Initiatives: By regulating imports more effectively, PIMS aligns with India's 'Make in India' and 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' (self-reliant India) initiatives, encouraging domestic production and self-sufficiency in this sector.

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Features of PIMS

PIMS comes with several features that streamline the paper import registration process:

1. Access to Previous Registrations: Importers can view their earlier online registrations, allowing them to keep track of their compliance history.

2. Incomplete Application Review: The system also displays incomplete applications that have not been submitted for registration on the DGFT portal, enabling importers to review and take further action.

3. Mobile/Email ID Updates: Any changes to the applicant's mobile or email ID must be updated in the DGFT IEC (Importer Exporter Code) database through the online IEC modification system.

4. Stringent Enforcement: Importers who fail to register accurate information or data on notified items may face punitive actions under The Foreign Trade (Development and Regulation) Act, 1992.

5. 24x7 Availability: Online PIMS operates round the clock, but it is advisable to file registrations well in advance to avoid disruptions in business operations.

Import Policy of Paper Products

The new import policy applies to a wide array of paper products, covering 201 tariff lines. These include:

- Newsprint

- Handmade paper

- Coated paper

- Uncoated paper

- Litho and offset paper

- Tissue paper

- Toilet paper

- Cartons

- Labels, and more

Conclusion

The Paper Import Monitoring System (PIMS) is a significant stride towards enhancing the transparency and regulation of paper imports in India. It aligns with the nation's goals of promoting domestic production, countering underhanded practices, and ensuring the quality and safety of imported paper products. Importers must familiarize themselves with PIMS and adhere to its requirements to continue their trade seamlessly and ethically in this vital sector. As the online registration facility for PIMS becomes available, importers should proactively embrace this change and navigate the new norms of paper imports in India.