Introduction: The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) has published the National Time Release Study (NTRS) 2023 report, which evaluates the performance of cargo release times at Indian ports. The study aims to measure the efficiency of customs clearance processes and identify areas for improvement. The findings provide valuable insights into the progress made towards trade facilitation targets and the impact of trade facilitative initiatives.
Analysis: The NTRS 2023 report presents the average release time for different port categories, including seaports, air cargo complexes (ACCs), inland container depots (ICDs), and integrated check posts (ICPs). It compares the performance of the current year with that of previous years to assess progress and identify challenges in reducing release time. The study covers approximately 80 percent of bills of entry and 70 percent of shipping bills filed in the country.
The report reveals a positive trend in import release times, with notable reductions achieved in 2023 compared to 2022. Import release time for seaports, ICDs, ACCs, and ICPs has been reduced by 9 to 20 percent. The average release times for these port categories are 85:42 hrs, 71:46 hrs, 44:16 hrs, and 31:47 hrs, respectively. The findings also indicate a higher level of certainty in the expeditious release of imported cargo, as reflected by the lower standard deviation.
The NTRS 2023 reinforces the effectiveness of the “Path to Promptness” approach, which includes advance filing of import documents, risk-based facilitation of cargo, and the benefits of the Authorized Economic Operators program. Cargoes that combine all three features of the Path to Promptness consistently achieve the National Trade Facilitation Action Plan (NTFAP) release time targets across all port categories.
In line with the Indian government’s emphasis on export promotion, the NTRS 2023 places greater focus on measuring export release times. The report distinguishes between regulatory clearance (customs release) and physical clearance, highlighting improvements in both aspects. The NTFAP release time target has been achieved for most port categories, indicating significant progress in export clearance processes.
The improved release times can be attributed to the collaborative efforts of various stakeholders, including Customs, port authorities, Customs Brokers, and Participating Government Agencies (PGAs). Their implementation of trade facilitation measures has played a vital role in expediting cargo clearance and enhancing trade efficiency.
Conclusion: The release of the National Time Release Study (NTRS) 2023 report by the CBIC signifies the commitment of Indian authorities to improve trade facilitation and enhance cargo release times. The findings highlight positive developments in import and export clearance processes, showcasing the effectiveness of trade facilitative initiatives. The collaborative efforts of stakeholders have contributed to the improved efficiency of customs procedures, ultimately boosting trade efficiency in India.
