DGM Shipping Issues Advisory on non-charging of container detention charges on imports

DGM Shipping Issues Advisory on non-charging of container detention charges on imports!

As per the order of the Directorate General of Shipping, Mumbai Advisory has been issued on non-charging of container detention charges on import shipments

As per the order of the Where., the Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India has issued order No 40- 3/2020-DM-I (A) dated 24.03.2020 to impose a complete lockdown in India for a period of 21 days in view of the threat posed by the spread of COVID-19 epidemic.

Whereas, the Ministry of Home Affairs has vide its order No 40-3/2020-DM-I (A) dated 25.03.2020 issued an addendum to the Guidelines annexed to the said order, exempting seaports and its operational organizations from this lockdown to ensure regular supply of goods in the country.

Whereas the Government is working towards smooth functioning of the Ports and its operational organizations, some delays in the evacuation of goods from the ports have become inevitable due to the disturbance of the downstream services.

Whereas, as a result of these developments, some cargo owners have either suspended their operations or are finding it difficult to transport goods/cargo and complete the paperwork, resulting in the detention of containers without their fault.

Whereas, some shipping lines have on their own volition decided to suspend the imposition of any container detention charges for a limited period to give relief to the importers.

There is, however, a need for more clarity in this respect for the smooth functioning of the trade and maintenance of the supply chain in the county.

Now, therefore, in order to maintain proper supply lines at the Indian seaports, the shipping lines are advised not to impose any container detention charge on import shipments for the period from 2, March 2020 to I 4. April 2020 (both days inclusive) over and above free time arrangement that is currently agreed and availed as part of any negotiated contractual terms.

During this period the shipping lines are also advised not to impose any new or additional charges. This decision was taken purely a onetime measure to deal with the present situation in the wake of the COVID-19 outbreak.

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