The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC), on November 01, 2026, issued an advisory regarding the implementation of the Sea Cargo Manifest and Transhipment Regulations (SCMTR), 2018, notified vide Notification No. 38/2018-Customs (N.T.) dated May 11, 2018, read with Notification No. 90/2026-Customs (N.T.) dated November 1, 2026. Although DG Systems has deployed all import and export leg messages under the SCMTR framework, export-side message filing remains limited to certain ports, and several stakeholders, including custodians, terminal operators and trans-shippers, are yet to fully transition to SCMTR-compliant filing due to software integration and operational readiness requirements.
Accordingly, CBIC has decided to discontinue the erstwhile export messages in a phased manner, as specified in Annexure A, during the transition period up to January 31, 2027, to ensure completion of the transition without disrupting cargo clearance and trade operations. During this period, all stakeholders are required to adopt SCMTR-compliant software and message formats.
Customs field formations have been directed to issue suitable Public Notices and undertake stakeholder outreach for smooth implementation. System-related issues are to be resolved in coordination with DG Systems, while policy-related issues are to be brought to the notice of the Board. No penal action shall be taken during the implementation phase.
[Circular No. 450/58/2015-Cus.IV(Pt.I)]
