ALS

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Category: Ministry of Finance

  • CESTAT Allahabad Overturns Mis-Declared Country of Origin

    CESTAT Allahabad Overturns Mis-Declared Country of Origin

    ALO Law Office- IDT Tax I Arbitration I Litigation

    Date: 10.09.2025

    CESTAT Allahabad Overturns Mis-Declared Country of Origin​ ​ ​  

    This Article has been written by Shri Ravi Shekhar Jha, Advocate based in New Delhi. The views expressed are based on his interpretation of the law. He can be reached at his email id intelconsul@gmail.com or on his Mobile +91-9999005379.

    In a significant ruling, the Customs, Excise & Service Tax Appellate Tribunal (CESTAT), Allahabad, has allowed appeals in a case involving alleged mis-declaration of the country of origin for imported dry dates. The case, which revolved around the importation of dry dates purportedly originating from the UAE but suspected to be of Pakistani origin, highlights critical issues in customs enforcement, evidentiary standards, and procedural lapses. ​

    Background of the Case ​

    The case stemmed from intelligence received by the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) regarding importers allegedly evading customs duty by mis-declaring the country of origin of dry dates. ​ Following investigations, the Principal Commissioner of Customs, Noida, issued an order confiscating the goods and imposing penalties on multiple parties, including importers, clearing agents, and the supplier based in the UAE. ​

    The crux of the case was the determination of the country of origin, which carried significant implications for customs duty rates. ​ Goods originating from Pakistan attracted a 200% duty under Notification No. ​ 05/2019-Cus dated 16.02.2019, while goods from the UAE were subject to a much lower duty rate.

    Source: CESTAT Allahabad

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  • CESTAT Hyderabad Rules in Favor of PH Jewels in Gold Export Obligation Dispute

    CESTAT Hyderabad Rules in Favor of PH Jewels in Gold Export Obligation Dispute

    ALO Law Office- IDT Tax I Arbitration I Litigation

    Date: 09.09.2025

    CESTAT Hyderabad Rules in Favor of PH Jewels in Gold Export Obligation Dispute​ ​ ​ ​ ​

    This Article has been written by Shri Ravi Shekhar Jha, Advocate based in New Delhi. The views expressed are based on his interpretation of the law. He can be reached at his email id intelconsul@gmail.com or on his Mobile +91-9999005379.

    In a significant ruling, the Customs, Excise, and Service Tax Appellate Tribunal (CESTAT), Hyderabad, has set aside the order passed by the Principal Commissioner of Customs, Hyderabad, in the case involving PH Jewels and Appellant. ​ This decision, pronounced on September 8, 2025, brings clarity to the interpretation of exemption notifications under the Customs Act, 1962, and provides relief to the appellants.

    Background of the Case

    The case revolved around the alleged diversion of 25 kg of duty-free gold imported by PH Jewels under Notification No. ​ 57/2000-Cus dated 8.5.2000. ​ The Directorate General of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) had issued a Show Cause Notice (SCN) in 2017, claiming that PH Jewels had sold the imported gold in the domestic market instead of using it to manufacture jewelry for export. ​ The Principal Commissioner of Customs subsequently passed an order confirming the demand for customs duty, interest, and penalties on PH Jewels and Appellant.

    Source: CESTAT Hyderabad

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  • CESTAT Mumbai Overturns Late Filing Charges of Bill of entry

    CESTAT Mumbai Overturns Late Filing Charges of Bill of entry

    ALO Law Office- IDT Tax I Arbitration I Litigation

    Date: 09.09.2025

    CESTAT Mumbai Overturns Late Filing Charges of Bill of entry​ ​ ​ Β 

    This Article has been written by Shri Ravi Shekhar Jha, Advocate based in New Delhi. The views expressed are based on his interpretation of the law. He can be reached at his email id intelconsul@gmail.com or on his Mobile +91-9999005379.

    In a significant ruling, the Customs, Excise, and Service Tax Appellate Tribunal (CESTAT), Mumbai, has set aside charges for late filing of a bill of entry against Titanium Ten Enterprises Ltd. ​ The case, which revolved around procedural lapses in the customs clearance process, highlights the importance of accountability in the electronic customs system and the responsibilities of customs authorities. ​

    Case Background

    Titanium Ten Enterprises Ltd, a Surat-based company, had imported 100% polyester filament yarn and filed an advance bill of entry (No. 6359527/06.01.2020) as per the provisions of the Customs Act, 1962. ​ However, due to an issue in the Indian Customs Electronic System (ICES), the advance bill of entry was not regularized, compelling the company to file a fresh bill of entry (No. ​ 7080859/02.03.2020). ​ This delay led to the imposition of late filing charges amounting to β‚Ή4,33,446. ​ The company challenged the charges, arguing that the delay was caused by a system error beyond their control. ​

    The Commissioner of Customs (Appeals), Mumbai – II, dismissed their appeal, prompting Titanium Ten Enterprises Ltd to approach the CESTAT.

    Source: CESTAT Mumbai

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  • CESTAT Allahabad Dismisses Revenue Appeal Under CBIC Litigation Policy

    CESTAT Allahabad Dismisses Revenue Appeal Under CBIC Litigation Policy

    ALO Law Office- IDT Tax I Arbitration I Litigation

    Date: 08.09.2025

    CESTAT Allahabad Dismisses Revenue Appeal Under CBIC Litigation Policy​ ​ ​ ​ ​

    This Article has been written by Shri Ravi Shekhar Jha, Advocate based in New Delhi. The views expressed are based on his interpretation of the law. He can be reached at his email id intelconsul@gmail.com or on his Mobile +91-9999005379.

    The Customs, Excise & Service Tax Appellate Tribunal (CESTAT) Allahabad recently delivered a significant judgment in the case of Commissioner of Customs, Noida vs. M/s Ganpati Overseas (Customs Appeal No. 70675 of 2019). This case highlights the evolving dynamics of litigation policy under the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) and the importance of judicial discipline in resolving disputes. ​

    Background of the Case

    The appeal arose from an Order-in-Appeal passed by the Commissioner (Appeals), CGST, Noida, dated 11.06.2019. ​ The primary issue revolved around whether the appeal should be dismissed under CBIC’s litigation policy due to the monetary limit prescribed for filing appeals before the CESTAT. ​ The CBIC’s Circular F.No. ​ 390/Misc./30/2023-JC, dated 02.11.2023, set a threshold of Rs. ​ 50 lakhs for appeals to be filed before the Tribunal.

    Source: CESTAT Allahabad

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  • CESTAT Chandigarh- Service Tax Refund Granted for Rice Export Under Agricultural Produce Exemption

    CESTAT Chandigarh- Service Tax Refund Granted for Rice Export Under Agricultural Produce Exemption

    ALO Law Office- IDT Tax I Arbitration I Litigation

    Date: 08.09.2025

    CESTAT Chandigarh- Service Tax Refund Granted for Rice Export Under Agricultural Produce Exemption​ ​ ​ ​ ​

    This Article has been written by Shri Ravi Shekhar Jha, Advocate based in New Delhi. The views expressed are based on his interpretation of the law. He can be reached at his email id intelconsul@gmail.com or on his Mobile +91-9999005379.

    In a significant ruling, the Customs, Excise, and Service Tax Appellate Tribunal (CESTAT), Chandigarh, has delivered a judgment in favor of M/s Bharat Industrial Enterprises Ltd., Taraori, Karnal, Haryana, in the matter of Service Tax Appeal No. ​ 377 of 2011. ​ This case highlights the interpretation of the term “agricultural produce” and its implications for service tax exemptions under Notification No. ​ 13/2003-ST.

    Background of the Case ​

    M/s Bharat Industrial Enterprises Ltd. is engaged in the cultivation of paddy and the sale/export of rice obtained by de-husking paddy. ​ During the financial year 2007-08, the company paid service tax under the Reverse Charge Mechanism for services availed from commission agents for export and domestic sales. Subsequently, they filed a refund claim of Rs. ​ 13,63,497/- on the grounds that the commission services were exempt from service tax under Notification No. ​ 13/2003-ST dated 20.06.2003. ​

    While the Original Authority granted the refund, the Commissioner of Central Excise, Panchkula, disallowed the claim through an Order-in-Revision dated 30.11.2010, directing the appellants to deposit the refunded amount along with interest at 13% per annum. ​ This led to the present appeal before the CESTAT.

    Source: CESTAT Chandigarh

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  • CAAR Mumbai Decides Classification Dispute on Imported Vacuum Circuit Breaker Parts

    CAAR Mumbai Decides Classification Dispute on Imported Vacuum Circuit Breaker Parts

    ALO Law Office- IDT Tax I Arbitration I Litigation

    Date: 06.09.2025

    CAAR Mumbai Decides Classification Dispute on Imported Vacuum Circuit Breaker Parts​ ​ ​ ​ ​

     This Article has been written by Shri Ravi Shekhar Jha, Advocate based in New Delhi. The views expressed are based on his interpretation of the law. He can be reached at his email id intelconsul@gmail.com or on his Mobile +91-9999005379.

    In a significant development for the electrical and automation industry, the Customs Authority for Advance Rulings (CAAR), Mumbai, has delivered a favorable ruling for M/s. Siemens Limited regarding the classification of parts for Vacuum Circuit Breakers (VCBs). This ruling, issued on September 3, 2025, provides clarity on the classification of these critical components under the Customs Tariff Act, 1975, and sets a precedent for similar cases in the future.

    The Context: What Are Vacuum Circuit Breakers?

    Vacuum Circuit Breakers (VCBs) are essential devices used in medium and high-voltage applications (1kV to 35kV) to protect electrical systems. ​ They operate by interrupting the flow of current during faults like short circuits or overloads. ​ The arc quenching process in VCBs occurs in a vacuum, making them highly efficient and reliable for power distribution systems. ​

    Siemens Limited, a leader in electrification, automation, and digitalization, imports various precision-engineered parts for VCBs. ​ These parts, made from oxygen-free copper, are designed to withstand high voltages, temperatures, and arcing conditions. ​ To ensure compliance with customs regulations, Siemens sought an advance ruling on the classification of these parts.

    Source: CAAR Mumbai

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  • CESTAT Hyderabad Sets Aside Confiscation of Imported Stainless Steel Scrap

    CESTAT Hyderabad Sets Aside Confiscation of Imported Stainless Steel Scrap

    ALO Law Office- IDT Tax I Arbitration I Litigation

    Date: 05.09.2025

    CESTAT Hyderabad Sets Aside Confiscation of Imported Stainless Steel Scrap​ ​ ​ ​ ​

    This Article has been written by Shri Ravi Shekhar Jha, Advocate based in New Delhi. The views expressed are based on his interpretation of the law. He can be reached at his email id intelconsul@gmail.com or on his Mobile +91-9999005379.

    In a significant ruling, the Customs, Excise, and Service Tax Appellate Tribunal (CESTAT), Hyderabad, has delivered justice to Jindal Stainless Ltd by setting aside the confiscation, redemption fine, and penalty imposed by the Principal Commissioner of Customs, Visakhapatnam. ​ This case highlights the importance of interpreting laws and policies in a practical and fair manner, especially when procedural challenges arise.

    Background of the Case

    Jindal Stainless Ltd, a leading steel manufacturer, imported 500.74 MT of stainless steel scrap of 304 grade from Turkey under two Bills of Entry dated December 3, 2014, and December 8, 2014. As per the Foreign Trade Policy (FTP) and Handbook of Procedures, metallic waste and scrap in unshredded, compressed, and loose form can only be imported if accompanied by a pre-shipment inspection certificate issued by an authorized agency. ​ However, the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) had not notified any agency in Turkey for such inspections. ​ Faced with this practical challenge, Jindal Stainless Ltd obtained the certificate from M/s Worldwide Inspection Services – SARL, Benin, an agency authorized by DGFT but not specifically for Turkey. ​

    Upon arrival at Visakhapatnam port, the imported scrap was examined by M/s Valueguru Chartered Engineers, Surveyors, Valuers, who issued a post-shipment inspection certificate confirming the goods were in order. ​ Despite this, the Principal Commissioner of Customs confiscated the goods under Section 111(d) of the Customs Act, 1962, imposed a redemption fine of Rs. ​ 40,00,000, and levied a penalty of Rs. ​ 10,00,000 under Section 112(a).

    Source: CESTAT Hyderabad

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  • CESTAT Delhi Sets Aside Penalties on Customs Broker in Misclassification

    CESTAT Delhi Sets Aside Penalties on Customs Broker in Misclassification

    ALO Law Office- IDT Tax I Arbitration I Litigation

    Date: 05.09.2025

    CESTAT Delhi Sets Aside Penalties on Customs Broker in Misclassification​ ​ ​ ​ ​

    This Article has been written by Shri Ravi Shekhar Jha, Advocate based in New Delhi. The views expressed are based on his interpretation of the law. He can be reached at his email id intelconsul@gmail.com or on his Mobile +91-9999005379.

    In a significant ruling, the Customs, Excise & Service Tax Appellate Tribunal (CESTAT), New Delhi, has set aside penalties imposed on M/s PS Bedi & Co (P) Ltd., a Customs Broker, under Sections 112(a)(ii) and 114AA of the Customs Act, 1962. ​ This decision, delivered on August 5, 2025, highlights the importance of procedural fairness and the role of Customs Brokers in import transactions. The case revolved around alleged misclassification of imported goods, leading to penalties imposed by the Principal Commissioner of Customs. ​

    Background of the Case

    The appellant, M/s PS Bedi & Co (P) Ltd., was penalized for filing Bills of Entry for AMR/Non-AMR Water Flow Meters imported by M/s SPML India Ltd. from Israel. The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) alleged that the goods were misclassified under Customs Tariff Item (CTI) 9026 10 10 instead of CTI 9028 20 00, resulting in revenue loss. Despite having Certificates of Origin indicating CTI 9028, the Customs Broker filed the Bills of Entry based on the import documents provided by the importer. ​

    A show cause notice was issued, accusing the Customs Broker of deliberate misclassification and suppression of material facts, making the goods liable for confiscation under Section 111(m) of the Customs Act. ​ Penalties were imposed under Sections 112(a)(ii) and 114AA of the Customs Act.

    Source: CESTAT Delhi

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  • CESTAT Chennai Rules in Favor of M/s Zibal Exim: Classification and Valuation of Imported Black Sand Upheld

    CESTAT Chennai Rules in Favor of M/s Zibal Exim: Classification and Valuation of Imported Black Sand Upheld

    ALO Law Office- IDT Tax I Arbitration I Litigation

    Date: 04.09.2025

    CESTAT Chennai Rules in Favor of M/s Zibal Exim: Classification and Valuation of Imported Black Sand Upheld​ ​ ​ ​

    This Article has been written by Shri Ravi Shekhar Jha, Advocate based in New Delhi. The views expressed are based on his interpretation of the law. He can be reached at his email id intelconsul@gmail.com or on his Mobile +91-9999005379.

    Introduction:

    This case pertains to Customs Appeal No. 42037 of 2015 filed by M/s Zibal Exim against the Order-in-Appeal No. 118/2014-TTN(CUS) dated 14.10.2014, which upheld the Order-in-Original No. 40/2013 dated 07.11.2013. The dispute arose over the classification, valuation, and eligibility for concessional duty of 106 tons of “Black Sand” imported by the appellant from Sierra Leone.

    The Customs Department classified the goods as Quartz Sand under CTH 2505 1020, denied the concessional duty under Notification No. 12/2012, enhanced the value of the goods, and imposed fines and penalties. The appellant contested these findings, asserting that the goods were Rutile-bearing sand and should be classified under CTH 2614 0090 as Titanium Ore.

    Source: CESTAT Chennai

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  • CESTAT Bangalore- ATM Monitors Classifiable as Parts Under CTH 8473

    CESTAT Bangalore- ATM Monitors Classifiable as Parts Under CTH 8473

    ALO Law Office- IDT Tax I Arbitration I Litigation

    Date: 03.09.2025

    CESTAT Bangalore- ATM Monitors Classifiable as Parts Under CTH 8473​ ​

    This Article has been written by Shri Ravi Shekhar Jha, Advocate based in New Delhi. The views expressed are based on his interpretation of the law. He can be reached at his email id intelconsul@gmail.com or on his Mobile +91-9999005379.

    In a significant decision by the Customs, Excise & Service Tax Appellate Tribunal (CESTAT), Bangalore, the appeal filed by M/s NCR Corporation India Pvt. ​ Ltd. was allowed, setting aside the earlier classification of ATM monitors under CTH 8528. ​ This ruling reaffirms the importance of accurate classification of imported goods under the Customs Tariff Act, ensuring compliance with established legal precedents. ​

    Background of the Case

    The dispute arose when NCR Corporation imported monitors intended for use in Automatic Teller Machines (ATMs) and declared them as LCD assemblies for ATMs under Customs Tariff Heading (CTH) 8473, which covers parts and accessories of machines classified under CTH 8472. ​ However, the revenue authorities argued that these monitors should be classified under CTH 8528, which pertains to monitors and projectors not incorporating television reception apparatus. ​

    Aggrieved by the revenue’s decision, NCR Corporation filed an appeal before the CESTAT, citing legal precedents and technical grounds to support their claim.

    Source: CESTAT Bangalore

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