CBIC eases documentation norms under Eligible Manufacturer Importer scheme
The CBIC has simplified enrolment under the Eligible Manufacturer Importer scheme, cutting required documents from 10 to three. From September 15, eligible manufacturers can apply for the scheme, which allows them to defer Customs duty payments on imports and manage working capital better.
New Delhi: The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) has significantly reduced the documentation and data requirements for businesses opting into the Eligible Manufacturer Importer (EMI) scheme, with the new process set to begin from September 15. This move, announced in a circular, is part of a new facilitation measure introduced in the 2026-27 Union Budget, allowing trusted manufacturers to defer payment of Customs duty to a new category of importers known as Eligible Manufacturer Importers (EMIs).
Under this scheme, EMIs can clear imported goods without paying Customs duty at the time of clearance, instead paying the duty on a monthly basis as per the Deferred Payment of Import Duty Rules, 2016. This arrangement, in place from April 1, 2026, to March 31, 2028, is designed to help manufacturers manage cash flows and working capital more effectively.
The CBIC received feedback from the trade sector requesting a rationalization of data and documentation requirements for EMI scheme filings. In response, the CBIC streamlined the application process by reducing the number of documents required from 10 to 3 in the revised application format and simplifying the required data submission.
These changes have notably reduced the data and documentary requirements for prospective MI applicants, while still enabling thorough verification of relevant information through backend IT systems. With these modifications, eligible importers can now apply for EMI scheme enrollment starting September 15, according to the CBIC. The EMI scheme aims to enhance ease of doing business, promote a stronger compliance culture, and stimulate domestic manufacturing.
Written by urgent.news from The Economic Times - Economy's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
