The Mumbai Customs Zone-III has officially operationalised a new Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for the import and export of gems and jewellery through personal carriage, effective 1st May 2025. The guidelines, issued under Public Notice No. 10/2025-26 and Standing Order No. 01/2025-26, aim to streamline and digitise customs processes at the Precious Cargo Customs Clearance Centre (PCCCC), BKC, Mumbai.

Under the new procedure, importers must file a Bill of Entry (BE) in advance, citing “personal carriage” and submitting details such as passenger information, flight details, and an authorisation letter. Goods will be temporarily detained at the airport upon arrival and cleared at PCCCC upon verification. Re-imports will require a GJEPC-issued Registration-cum-Membership Certificate.

Similarly, for exports, a Shipping Bill must be filed at least 24 hours prior to departure, along with documentation and photographs of the goods. Goods will be examined and sealed at PCCCC and escorted to the airport for temporary detention. Passengers must present the detention receipt to retrieve goods before boarding.

The move ensures greater transparency, traceability, and compliance for high-value hand-carried consignments. Any procedural issues are to be reported to the Customs authorities for resolution.

Source: Gjepc