Top 50 Legal FAQs for Importers in India | Export Import Lawyer in Delhi NCR | Corporate Lawyer in Delhi NCR

1. What is an Importer Exporter Code (IEC)? Answer: An IEC is a 10-digit code required for anyone engaging in import/export activities. 2. What is a Bill of Entry for importers? Answer: A Bill of Entry is a legal document filed by importers with customs before the goods are cleared for customs clearance. 3. What documents are needed for customs clearance? Answer: Common documents include Bill of Entry, commercial invoice, packing list, insurance certificate, and certificate of origin. 4. What is the Customs Duty and how is it calculated? Answer: Customs Duty is a tax levied on imported goods. It can be calculated based on the value of the goods, their classification, and the applicable tariff rates. 5. What is a Harmonized System (HS) code? Answer: HS codes are used to classify goods for customs purposes. It’s a normalized arrangement of numbers and names to group specific exchanged items. 6. Are there any limitations on importing specific exchanged merchandise? Answer: Yes, certain goods are subject to restrictions or prohibitions. Check the DGFT’s Import Policy for a comprehensive list. 7. Do somebody have to pay Goods and Services Tax (GST) on merchandise which are imported? Answer: Yes, GST is applicable on imported goods. It’s calculated on the assessable value plus customs duties. 8. Can I import goods without an IEC? Answer: No, an IEC is mandatory for importers in India. 9. What is FTA (Free Trade Agreement)? Answer: FTAs are agreements between countries to reduce or eliminate tariffs on certain goods. 10. How can I claim exemptions or concessions on customs duties? Answer: If your imported goods fall under specific categories, you may be eligible for duty exemptions or concessions. Check the customs notifications for details. 11. Are there any naming necessities for imported? Answer: Indeed, certain items require naming with explicit data, including nation of beginning and other important details. 12. What is a Letter of Credit (LC) and how does it relate to importing? Answer: An LC is a financial instrument that guarantees payment to the exporter upon successful shipment of goods as per agreed terms. 13. Are there any import restrictions based on environmental or health considerations? Answer: Yes, certain goods might require environmental or health clearances from relevant authorities. 14. Can I import goods for personal use without an IEC? Answer: Yes, individuals can import goods for personal use within certain limits without an IEC. 15. How would I deal with customs valuation of imported products? Answer: Customs valuation is typically based on the transaction value, which includes the price paid or payable and certain specified costs. 16. What are Basic Customs Duty and Additional Customs Duty? Answer: Basic Customs Duty is imposed on the value of goods, while Additional Customs Duty is equivalent to the Excise Duty. 17. Is Goods and Services Tax (GST) appropriate on imported merchandise? Answer: Yes, GST is levied on the assessable value plus customs duty. 18. Are there any exclusions from customs obligations and expenses? Answer: Indeed, there are exclusions accessible for specific classifications of merchandise, as determined by the public authority. 19. What is the process for claiming duty drawback? Answer: Duty drawback is a refund of customs duties paid on imported goods that are subsequently exported. You can claim it through the prescribed procedure. 20. How is anti-dumping duty assessed on imported goods? Answer: Anti-dumping duty is imposed when the imported goods are found to be priced lower than their normal value in the exporting country. 21. Do I need to maintain any records for imported goods? Answer: Yes, you must maintain records related to imports for a specified period. 22. Is there a requirement for pre-shipment inspection of goods? Answer: Some goods may require pre-shipment inspection, as specified by certain importing countries. 23. What is an Endorsement of Beginning and when is it required? Answer: A report confirms the nation of beginning of merchandise and may be expected for customs leeway or under economic deals. 24. Are there any labelling and packaging requirements for imported goods? Answer: Yes, certain goods need to be labelled and packaged according to specific regulations. 25. What is Advance Ruling and how can it benefit importers? Answer: A Development Administering gives clearness on customs and assessment matters before real import, assisting merchants with settling on informed choices. 26. What is FTA (Free Trade Agreement)? Answer: FTAs are agreements between countries to reduce or eliminate trade barriers, including customs duties, for certain goods. 27. How do I determine eligibility for preferential tariff under FTAs? Answer: Importers need to ensure that the imported goods meet the rules of origin criteria specified in the respective FTA.