The matter has been considered in consultation with Plantation Division of the Department of Commerce and the DES Division in this office and accordingly, it is clarified that the Policy restricts only duty free imports. DEPB is only a mode of payment of duty instead of payment in cash. Since Natural rubber is otherwise freely importable on payment of prescribed duty, Policy Circular 28 dated 4.3.2002 and earlier ALC Circulars does not prevent payment of Custom duty for import of natural rubber.
Similarly, the Commissioner of Customs (Systems) shall regularly depute his officers to visit major and important formations for verification of proper functioning
