In exercise of the powers conferred by clause (aa) of sub section (1) read with sub section (2) of section 7 of the Customs Act, 1962

## Policy Analysis Report: Amendment to Customs Act Notification Regarding Jalna, Maharashtra **1. Executive Summary:** This report analyzes a notification issued by the Ministry of Finance, Department of Revenue, Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC), specifically *No. 37/2025-Customs (N.T.)* amending notification *No. 12/97-Customs (N.T.)* This amendment modifies the list of locations within Maharashtra where imported goods can be unloaded and export goods loaded. The key finding is the inclusion of Jalna as a location where such activities are permitted. This change directly affects businesses involved in import and export activities in and around Jalna. **2. Introduction:** The purpose of this report is to provide a detailed analysis of the amendment to customs notification *No. 12/97-Customs (N.T.)*, as outlined in notification *No. 37/2025-Customs (N.T.)*, based solely on the information provided in the official government text. The report aims to inform affected parties about the changes and their potential implications. **3. Policy Overview:** * **Original Policy Being Amended:** Notification No. 12/97-Customs (N.T.), dated the 2nd April, 1997. * **Core Objective(s) of Original Policy (Inferred from Text):** The original notification likely outlines the specific locations within India authorized for the unloading of imported goods and the loading of export goods, presumably for efficient customs operations and trade facilitation. This inference is supported by the amending notification adding a location to the original list. **4. Background and Rationale:** * **Reason for this Specific Amendment (Inferred):** The amendment, adding Jalna, suggests a need to designate Jalna as an authorized location for import/export activities. This could be due to increased trade volume, infrastructure development in Jalna, or a strategic decision to promote economic activity in the region. The amendment addresses the lack of Jalna's inclusion in the original notification's list of approved locations. **5. Key Provisions / Changes:** * **Specific Part of Original Policy Being Changed:** The "Table" within notification *No. 12/97-Customs (N.T.)*, specifically "against serial number 9 relating to the State of Maharashtra, in column 3 and 4". * **New Rule/Provision:** An additional item, designated "xviii", is inserted under Maharashtra in the table. Column 3 lists "Jalna", and column 4 states: "Unloading of imported goods and the loading of export goods or any class of such goods." * **Difference/Effect of This Change:** This amendment now authorizes the unloading of imported goods and the loading of export goods in Jalna. Previously, such activities may not have been permitted, or goods may have had to be transported to/from another authorized location, adding to costs and delays. **6. Target Audience and Stakeholders:** The primary target audience and stakeholders include: * Businesses involved in importing and exporting goods in and around Jalna, Maharashtra. * Customs officials operating in the Jalna region. * Logistics and transportation companies operating in the area. * The Jalna business community in general. **7. Implementation Aspects (Inferred):** * **Responsible Agency/Bodies:** The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) is responsible for issuing and overseeing the implementation of this notification. Local customs officials in Jalna will be responsible for enforcing the provisions of the amended notification. * **Timelines or Procedures:** No specific timelines or procedures are outlined in the amendment text itself. However, it can be assumed that the amendment is effective from the date of the notification (May 26, 2025). Standard customs procedures for import and export will apply in Jalna. * **Specific to the changes:** Local customs officials will need to be informed and equipped to handle import and export clearances for goods in Jalna now. Businesses will be able to begin planning their import/export operations to utilize Jalna as a designated location. **8. Expected Outcomes / Impact of Changes:** The likely intended outcomes of this amendment are: * **Facilitation of trade:** Reduced transportation costs and time for businesses in and around Jalna. * **Economic development:** Stimulation of economic activity in the Jalna region by making it easier to import and export goods. * **Improved customs efficiency:** Streamlined customs procedures in Jalna. **9. Conclusion:** Notification *No. 37/2025-Customs (N.T.)* represents a targeted amendment to existing customs regulations, specifically adding Jalna to the list of authorized locations for import and export activities within Maharashtra. This change is likely aimed at facilitating trade and promoting economic growth in the region. Affected businesses should familiarize themselves with the amended regulations and plan accordingly.

Key Entities Referenced