CBEC exempts bulk export cargo from sealing

In a relief to exporters of bulk cargo, the government has exempted outbound consignments like coal and iron-ore from the provision of sealing in packages or containers.
The Central Board of Excise and Customs (CBEC), under the Finance Ministry, had received representation from the trade as well as its own officials regarding problems faced in sealing of export cargo "under bond".
It was pointed out that bulk cargo like iron-ore, coal, alumina concentrate, or heavy machinery are difficult to seal in packages or container and hence a suggestion was made on the need to prescribe procedure for export of such goods.

The CBEC, in a 'clarification regarding self-sealing and self-examination of bulk cargo' said the matter was examined and a notification of June 2001 has been amended "thereby exempting bulk cargo from sealing in packages or container".
"Provided that where the nature of goods is such that the goods cannot be sealed in a package or a container such as coal or ore, etc, exemption from sealing of package or container may be granted...Subject to safeguard...," the clarification said.
CBEC said no remission of duty shall be allowed for loss of goods within transit and permission should be given on case to case basis for a specified period not exceeding one year at a time.

Also, the permission may be withdrawn in case of misuse.
The Principal Chief Commissioner or Chief Commissioner of Central Excise has been empowered to grant exemption from self-sealing of bulk cargo for export on case to case basis.