Coal Import Monitoring System (CIMS)
Complete assistance for registration and compliance with the Coal Import Monitoring System
What is Coal Import Monitoring System (CIMS)?
The Coal Import Monitoring System (CIMS) is a government initiative designed to monitor and regulate the import of coal products into India. It requires importers to register and provide advance information about their coal imports, helping the government to maintain quality standards and ensure energy security.
As per the Coal Import Monitoring System, importers are required to submit advance information in an online system for import of coal items and obtain an automatic registration number by paying registration fee of Re. 1 per thousand, subject to minimum of Rs. 500/- and maximum of Rs. 1 lakh on CIF value.
Background and Introduction of CIMS
The Coal Import Monitoring System (CIMS) was introduced by the Ministry of Coal, Government of India, to enhance transparency in coal imports and strengthen the monitoring mechanism. The system was implemented to provide advance information about coal imports to the government and other stakeholders to facilitate effective trade measures and policy formulation.
The CIMS portal was launched to make registration mandatory for all importers of coal and coal products covered under specific HS codes. The system aims to:
- Monitor and regulate the import of coal products
- Ensure quality standards for imported coal
- Collect accurate data on coal imports for policy formulation
- Enhance energy security through better import management
- Promote transparency in coal import transactions
Legal Framework of CIMS
The Coal Import Monitoring System is governed by the following legal provisions:
- Notification issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT)
- Foreign Trade (Development and Regulation) Act, 1992
- Coal Mines (Special Provisions) Act, 2015
- Various amendments and notifications by the Ministry of Coal
- Integration with customs regulations for import clearance
Key Features of CIMS
- Mandatory registration for coal importers
- Online system for advance information submission
- Automatic Registration Number (ARN) generation
- Registration fee based on CIF value
- Validity of registration for 75 days
- Covers coal tariff lines under specific HS codes
- Integration with Indian Customs Electronic Gateway (ICEGATE)
- Requirement of Bill of Entry (BOE) number for customs clearance
Products Covered Under CIMS
CIMS covers coal products classified under the following HS codes:
| Chapter | Product Category | HS Codes |
|---|---|---|
| 27 | Coal, Briquettes, Ovoids | 2701 |
| 27 | Lignite | 2702 |
| 27 | Peat | 2703 |
| 27 | Coke and Semi-coke | 2704 |
The products covered under CIMS include but are not limited to:
Thermal Coal
- Bituminous coal
- Sub-bituminous coal
- Steam coal
- Anthracite
- Lignite
Metallurgical Coal
- Coking coal
- Hard coking coal
- Semi-soft coking coal
- PCI coal
- Anthracite for metallurgical use
Processed Coal Products
- Coal briquettes
- Ovoids
- Coke and semi-coke
- Coal pellets
- Processed coal for specific industries
Other Coal Products
- Peat
- Lignite briquettes
- Coal tar
- Coal derivatives
- Specialty coal products
CIMS Registration Process
The registration process for CIMS involves the following steps:
Step 1: Create an Account on CIMS Portal
Register on the CIMS portal with valid credentials including IEC details, email, and mobile number. Verify your account through OTP authentication.
Step 2: Submit Import Details
Provide complete information about the coal products being imported, including:
- HS code of the product
- Product description and specifications
- Quantity and value of import
- Country of origin
- Port of discharge
- Expected date of arrival
- End-use of the imported coal
Step 3: Pay Registration Fee
Pay the required fee calculated at Re. 1 per thousand of CIF value (minimum Rs. 500, maximum Rs. 1 lakh) through online payment gateway using net banking, credit/debit card, or UPI.
Step 4: Obtain Automatic Registration Number (ARN)
Upon successful payment, an Automatic Registration Number (ARN) is generated, which is valid for 75 days from the date of registration. The ARN is required for customs clearance.
Step 5: Customs Clearance
Present the ARN during customs clearance. The Bill of Entry (BOE) number must be updated in the CIMS portal within 15 days of obtaining the ARN for validation by customs authorities.
Important Information for CIMS Registration
- Validity Period: The CIMS registration is valid for 75 days from the date of registration.
- BOE Update: The Bill of Entry (BOE) number must be updated in the CIMS portal within 15 days of obtaining the ARN.
- Multiple Consignments: A single ARN can be used for multiple consignments of the same product from the same country of origin within the validity period.
- Modification: Once submitted, the CIMS application cannot be modified. For any changes, a new application must be submitted.
- Refund Policy: Registration fee is non-refundable even if the import does not take place.
- Technical Support: For technical issues, contact the CIMS helpdesk or call the helpline number.
Documents Required for CIMS Registration
Basic Documents
- Valid Importer-Exporter Code (IEC)
- GST Registration Certificate
- PAN Card
- Company Registration Certificate
- Letter of Authorization (if applicable)
Import-Specific Documents
- Proforma Invoice/Purchase Order
- Coal Quality Specifications
- Certificate of Origin (if available)
- End-use Certificate/Declaration
- Letter of Credit (if applicable)
Benefits of CIMS
For Government
- Advance information on coal imports
- Better monitoring and regulation
- Data for policy formulation
- Enhanced energy security
- Quality control of imported coal
For Domestic Industry
- Transparency in import data
- Level playing field
- Quality assurance of imports
- Better planning for domestic production
- Support for Make in India initiative
For Importers
- Streamlined import process
- Online registration system
- Transparent fee structure
- Reduced physical documentation
- Integration with customs clearance
Challenges and Compliance Issues
Importers may face several challenges while complying with CIMS requirements:
- Technical Challenges: Navigating the online portal and ensuring accurate data entry.
- Documentation Requirements: Gathering and submitting all necessary documents in the required format.
- Time Constraints: Meeting the 75-day validity period and updating BOE within 15 days.
- Fee Calculation: Ensuring correct calculation of registration fee based on CIF value.
- Product Classification: Correctly identifying HS codes for coal products covered under CIMS.
- Regulatory Updates: Keeping track of changes in CIMS regulations and requirements.
- Multiple Consignments: Managing multiple shipments under a single ARN.
Recent Updates and Amendments
- Extension of CIMS to cover additional coal products through various notifications.
- Integration with Single Window Interface for Facilitating Trade (SWIFT) for seamless customs clearance.
- Enhanced user interface and features on the CIMS portal for better user experience.
- Introduction of mobile app for CIMS registration and tracking.
- Revised guidelines for registration and fee payment process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about Coal Import Monitoring System
Our CIMS Services
We provide comprehensive assistance for all your Coal Import Monitoring System requirements, ensuring smooth compliance and hassle-free imports.
CIMS Registration
Complete assistance with the registration process on the CIMS portal, including account creation and documentation.
- Portal registration and account setup
- Data entry and information submission
- Document preparation and verification
- Application review before submission
Documentation Support
Expert assistance with preparing and submitting all required documents for CIMS compliance and customs clearance.
- Document collection and organization
- Format preparation as per requirements
- Digital document conversion and upload
- Document verification and validation
Advisory Services
Professional guidance on CIMS regulations, compliance requirements, and best practices for coal importers.
- Regulatory compliance guidance
- HS code classification assistance
- Import procedure optimization
- Updates on regulatory changes
ARN Processing
Efficient handling of Automatic Registration Number (ARN) applications and processing to ensure timely approvals.
- Application submission and tracking
- Fee calculation and payment processing
- ARN generation and verification
- BOE number updating within timeline
Renewal Services
Timely renewal of CIMS registrations and ARNs to ensure continuous compliance and uninterrupted imports.
- Expiry date monitoring and alerts
- Renewal application preparation
- Document updates and verification
- Seamless transition between registrations
Fee Payment Assistance
Support with calculating and processing registration fees based on CIF value as per CIMS requirements.
- Accurate fee calculation
- Online payment processing
- Payment verification and confirmation
- Receipt documentation and record-keeping
Compliance Monitoring
Continuous monitoring of CIMS compliance status and timely updates to prevent any regulatory issues.
- Registration status tracking
- Timeline monitoring and alerts
- Compliance report generation
- Regulatory requirement updates
End-to-End Import Support
Comprehensive assistance throughout the entire import process, from CIMS registration to customs clearance.
- Pre-shipment documentation
- CIMS registration and ARN generation
- Customs clearance coordination
- Post-import compliance management
Training and Education
Training sessions and educational resources for importers to understand CIMS requirements and procedures.
- CIMS portal navigation training
- Compliance requirement workshops
- Documentation preparation guidance
- Regulatory updates and seminars
Why Choose Kireeti Consultants?
With years of experience in import-export consultancy, we offer reliable and efficient services for all your CIMS requirements.
Expert Team
Our team consists of experienced professionals with in-depth knowledge of CIMS regulations and import procedures. We have successfully handled numerous CIMS registrations for clients across various industries.
Timely Service
We understand the importance of time in import processes and ensure prompt service delivery to avoid delays. Our efficient processes ensure that your CIMS registrations are completed well within the required timeframes.
Compliance Assurance
We ensure 100% compliance with all CIMS regulations, minimizing the risk of penalties or import restrictions. Our thorough understanding of the regulatory framework helps you navigate complex compliance requirements with ease.
Personalized Support
We provide customized solutions based on your specific import requirements and business needs. Our client-centric approach ensures that you receive tailored services that address your unique challenges.
Industry Experience
With extensive experience in the coal import sector, we understand the specific challenges and requirements of CIMS compliance. Our industry knowledge helps us provide practical and effective solutions.
End-to-End Solutions
We offer comprehensive services covering all aspects of CIMS compliance, from registration to customs clearance. Our holistic approach ensures a seamless import process without any compliance gaps.
Contact Us for CIMS Assistance
Get in touch with our experts for comprehensive support with Coal Import Monitoring System