Delays and Disarray
In Punjab, 30-40 containers of Basmati parboiled rice face a snag at the ICD. Customs authorities decree that all rice varieties undergo meticulous sampling and testing. It is before the coveted “let” export order is granted.
APEDA to the Rescue
In the middle of the chaos, the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) intervenes. It is striving to unravel the bureaucratic knot within three days. The authorities insist on a swift turnaround. “Ensure samples get reports obtained within 48 hours from Custom House Laboratory.”
Resolving the Riddle
Stakeholders in Ludhiana clarify the reality to customs officials. It is prompting a revision to random sampling. But, the contentious notice’s revocation status remains unconfirmed. This leaves industry officials and exporters questioning the initial necessity predicament.
Millers’ Predicament
As the calendar flips, holidays hamper exporters’ efforts to conduct mandatory testing. This leads to container pile-ups. Diverging estimates suggest 30-40 containers, while an industry association director claims 200 containers.
APEDA Steps In
The Punjab Rice Millers Exporters Association engages APEDA, which contacts Customs authorities to illuminate the circumstances. Up to 80% of India’s Basmati exports head to the Middle East, with 90% in parboiled form. Punjab mainly ships Basmati via Kandla and Mundra ports; Vishakhapatnam is critical for non-Basmati rice.
Export Duty Exclusion
Complicating matters is that 20% export duty blankets non-Basmati parboiled rice. But not its Basmati counterpart, as outlined in a DGFT notification. Ludhiana’s Customs authorities echoed a circular from Vishakhapatnam without validating its applicability in Punjab.
Economic Imbalance
Exporters lament the unfeasibility of non-Basmati parboiled rice exports from Punjab. They are citing farmers selling the bulk to the government at the MSP. A considerable price gap further dampens spirits. The lab test reports within 48 hours prove implausible due to the absence of a custom lab in Ludhiana.
APEDA’s Urgent Plea
In the middle of this turmoil, the Punjab Rice Millers Exporters Association implores APEDA to expedite the release of all Basmati parboiled rice consignments. Alongside white rice, seeking immediate relief from the bureaucratic dilemma.
Conclusion
As the conflict continues, exporters and industry players eagerly await a resolution. The convoluted web of regulations and unexpected delays highlights the need for a streamlined approach. This will ensure smoother sails for future exports from Punjab.
Import/Export Statistics
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