Some of the Important Announcements of the Government during April, 2004

Public Notice No. 59(RE-03)/2002-2007 dated 12 April, 2004, makes addition/correction/ amendment in the book titled – “Schedule of DEPB Rates” in respect of some items under Product Groups “Engineering”(61), “Chemicals”(62), “Electronics (83), “Textiles (89)” and General Instructions.
Period for completing exports under various provisions of Gem & Jewellery Scheme has been extended from 120 days to 180 days by Public Notice No. 60(RE-03)/2002-2007 dated 21st April, 2004.
Public Notice No. 61(RE-03)/2002-2007 dated 21st April, 2004 has been issued by adding some agencies in the list of IS/ISO 9000 (series) certification agency.
Notification No.38 dated 21st April, 2004 amends Para 3.7.2.1 of Exim Policy relating to Duty Free Credit Entitlement Scheme for status holders. As per this amendment, the export of - (a) Rough,Cut and Semi Polished Diamonds (b) Gold, Silver in any form including plane jewellery thereof (c) food grains source from Central Pool maintained by FCI and (d) items imported under Free Shipping Bills - will not be permitted for counting entitlement under the scheme. Further, the agricultural products, which fall under Chapters 1-24 of ITC (HS) Classification of Export and Import Items should not be allowed for imports against DFEC Scheme.
Import of New vehicles will be permitted through the Customs Ports at Nhava Sheva, Kolkatta, Chennai, ICD Tughlabad, Delhi Air Cargo and Mumbai Port as per Notification No. 41 dated 26th April, 2004 respectively.
Policy Circular No.32 dated 16th April, 2004 clarifies the Policy of Duty Free Import of Gold for Exports.
With reference to Para 4.7.2 of the Exim Policy, further clarification regarding exemption from registration of Drugs has been issued by Policy Circular No.33 dated 16th April,2004.