Advisory on non-charging of container detention charges on import shipments

DGS Order No. 07 of 2020

Sub.: Advisory on non-charging of container detention charges on import shipments

1. Whereas, 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.
2. Whereas, the Ministry of Home Affairs has vided 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.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. 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.
6. 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 25^th March 2020 to 7^th 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 charge. This decision is purely a one-time measure to deal with the present disruptions caused by the spread of the COVID-19 epidemic.

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