The case pertains to the import of restricted goods, ...

Import Violations: Marbles & Mosaics Priced Below DGFT Minimum, CESTAT Upholds Duty but Overturns Confiscation & Penalties.

November 16, 2024

Case Laws     Customs     AT

The case pertains to the import of restricted goods, specifically marbles and mosaics, under the Import Policy at a value lower than the Minimum Import Price notified by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT). The importer violated DGFT Notifications by importing these items below the prescribed minimum prices of US$ 60 per SQM for marbles and US$ 80 per SQM for mosaics, rendering the imports liable for confiscation under the Customs Act and the Foreign Trade (Development and Regulation) Act, along with penalties. The Adjudicating Authority initially ordered confiscation and penalties, but the importer agreed to enhance the value as per the Minimum Import Price. The CESTAT upheld the demand for duty at the enhanced value based on the Minimum Import Price but set aside the confiscation and penalties, partially allowing the appeal. The CESTAT held that once the value was enhanced as per the Notifications, there was no legal necessity to treat the imports as contravening the Acts.

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