CBIC Launches Deferred Customs Duty Facility for EMIs

RR Team

9 hours ago

In line with the Union Budget 2026–27 announcement, the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) has launched a new facilitation scheme enabling deferred payment of Customs duty for a new category of importers, termed Eligible Manufacturer Importers (EMIs). Circular No. 08/2026-Customs, issued on 28th February 2026, provides detailed guidelines, eligibility conditions, and operational procedures for this initiative.

The EMI scheme allows approved manufacturers to clear imported goods without paying Customs duty upfront. Instead, applicable duties can be settled monthly under the Deferred Payment of Import Duty Rules, 2016. This measure aims to improve cash flow, reduce working capital constraints, and promote compliance among manufacturers.

Scheme Validity and Eligibility

The deferred payment facility will be available from 1st April 2026 and remain in force until 31st March 2028. Eligible Manufacturer Importers must meet prescribed criteria related to Customs and GST compliance, financial standing, turnover, and past track record. Existing AEO-T1 entities, including MSMEs, fulfilling these conditions can also participate in the scheme.

The initiative is designed as a trust-based facilitation measure, encouraging compliant manufacturers to benefit from simplified procedures while gradually moving towards higher AEO certification levels such as AEO-T2 or AEO-T3. This progression will grant access to enhanced facilitation, faster clearances, and priority treatment under the Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) programme.

Application Process and Portal Access

Applications under the EMI scheme can be submitted online starting 1st March 2026 via the AEO portal at www.aeoindia.gov.in, under the “Eligible Manufacturer Importer” tab. The portal provides a streamlined process to submit requisite documents, verify eligibility, and track application status in real time.

The online application system is part of CBIC’s broader effort to digitize Customs processes, enhance transparency, and simplify compliance for manufacturers across India.

Benefits and Strategic Impact

The EMI scheme is expected to significantly strengthen the ease of doing business, reduce upfront duty burden, and promote wider participation in the AEO programme. By facilitating deferred duty payments, CBIC is supporting domestic manufacturing, export-oriented growth, and compliance-driven trade practices.

The initiative also underscores CBIC’s commitment to creating a predictable, efficient, and facilitative Customs environment, aligning with India’s manufacturing-led growth ambitions under the National Manufacturing Policy and Make in India mission.