In exercise of powers conferred by Section 3 and 9 of FT D and R Act, 1992, read with paragraph

## Report on Amendment to Foreign Trade Policy Regarding Coal Import Policy **1. Executive Summary:** This report analyzes a notification amending the Foreign Trade Policy 2015-2020, specifically concerning the import policy of coal and the incorporation of Policy Condition No. 7 in Chapter 27 of ITC HS, 2017, Schedule I Import Policy. The core purpose of this amendment, as detailed in the provided text, is to implement the Coal Import Monitoring System (CIMS). The key finding is the defined implementation timeline for CIMS, with online registration commencing on 15.02.2021 and CIMS becoming effective for Bills of Entry filed on or after 01.04.2021. **2. Introduction:** This report aims to provide an informative overview of the amendment to the Foreign Trade Policy concerning coal import, based solely on the text of Notification No. 56/2015-2020, dated January 28, 2021. This analysis focuses on the changes introduced by this notification. **3. Policy Overview:** * **Original Policy:** The notification amends Para 3 of Notification No. 49/2015-2020 dated 22.12.2020 which in turn amends Notification No. 36/2015-2020, dated the 17th January, 2017. * **Core Objective:** The core objective of this amendment is to implement the Coal Import Monitoring System (CIMS) to regulate coal imports. **4. Background and Rationale:** This amendment likely aims to improve the monitoring and regulation of coal imports. The introduction of CIMS suggests a need for better data collection, tracking, and potentially control over coal imports, likely related to issues such as compliance with standards, origin verification, or overall import volume management. **5. Key Provisions / Changes:** This amendment introduces specific changes regarding the implementation of the Coal Import Monitoring System (CIMS): * **Specific Part Changed:** Para 3 of Notification No. 49/2015-2020 dated 22.12.2020 * **New Rule/Provision:** The CIMS will be effective from 01.04.2021, meaning Bills of Entry filed on or after this date for items listed in the notification will be governed by CIMS. The facility of online registration will be available with effect from 15.02.2021. * **Difference/Effect:** This clarifies the exact dates for the activation of CIMS and the availability of online registration. This provides stakeholders with specific deadlines for compliance with the new system. It mandates that any coal imports with a Bill of Entry filed on or after April 1, 2021, must adhere to CIMS requirements. **6. Target Audience and Stakeholders:** The primary target audience and stakeholders directly affected by these changes include: * Coal importers * Customs brokers and agents involved in coal import * Entities involved in the handling and processing of import documentation related to coal. **7. Implementation Aspects (Inferred):** * **Responsible Agency/Bodies:** The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, is responsible for implementing and overseeing this amendment. * **Timelines/Procedures:** The amendment specifies two critical dates: * Online registration for CIMS: Available from 15.02.2021. * CIMS effectiveness: 01.04.2021 (for Bills of Entry filed on or after this date). * The text implies a requirement for online registration prior to filing the Bill of Entry on or after 01.04.2021. **8. Expected Outcomes / Impact of Changes:** The intended outcome of these changes is to establish a structured monitoring system for coal imports. The likely impacts include: * Increased transparency and data availability regarding coal imports. * Improved compliance with import regulations and standards for coal. * Potential adjustments in import processes and documentation requirements for affected businesses. * Potentially increased scrutiny and oversight of coal import activities by the DGFT and related agencies. **9. Conclusion:** This amendment to the Foreign Trade Policy introduces the Coal Import Monitoring System (CIMS), setting specific timelines for online registration and system effectiveness. This change is significant for all stakeholders involved in coal import activities, mandating adherence to CIMS requirements for Bills of Entry filed on or after April 1, 2021. Importers are advised to register online starting February 15, 2021, to ensure compliance with the new regulations.

Key Entities Referenced