In line with the Union Budget 2026–27 announcement, the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) has launched a facilitation measure allowing deferred payment of Customs duty for a newly defined category called Eligible Manufacturer Importers (EMIs). The guidelines were issued through Circular No. 08/2026-Customs dated 28 February 2026. The scheme will be operational from 1 April 2026 to 31 March 2028.

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• CBIC introduces deferred Customs duty payment scheme for Eligible Manufacturer Importers (EMIs).
• Initiative announced in Union Budget 2026–27 by Finance Minister.
• Detailed operational guidelines issued via Circular No. 08/2026-Customs dated February 28, 2026.
• EMIs can clear imported goods without immediate payment of Customs duty.
• Applicable duty to be paid monthly under Deferred Payment of Import Duty Rules, 2016.
• Scheme aims to ease cash flow pressures for manufacturing sector.
• Expected to improve working capital management for import-dependent industries.
• Facility operational from April 1, 2026 to March 31, 2028.
• Reform positioned as time-bound measure to enhance manufacturing competitiveness.
• Eligibility linked to Customs and GST compliance standards.
• Financial stability and turnover thresholds part of qualifying criteria.
• Past compliance track record to be considered for approval.
• Authorised Economic Operator Tier-1 (AEO-T1) entities eligible under conditions.
• MSMEs can also benefit if they meet prescribed compliance norms.
• Move aligns with government’s broader push for ease of doing business.