The Chennai & Ennore Ports Steamer Agents Association (CHENSAA) successfully organized its 67th Annual General Body Meeting (AGM) at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Chennai City Centre. During the event, Chairman of CHENSAA, Y. Leeladharan outlined several key points and initiatives aimed at enhancing trade procedures and addressing industry challenges.
In his address, Leeladharan emphasized the importance of collaborating with relevant authorities to streamline compliance procedures, thereby enabling the handling of a greater number of vessels and ensuring the seamless movement of cargoes. He reiterated CHENSAA’s commitment to contributing to the nation’s growth.
He presented the Annual Report for 2023-2024, highlighting CHENSAA’s initiatives and achievements over the past year. He expressed gratitude to his team for their dedication and efforts.
The Chairman also extended his thanks to the Chief Commissioner of Customs, Commissioners, and all Customs officials in Chennai for their guidance and support. He acknowledged the contributions of the Chennai Port Authority, CITPL, CCTL, Kamarajar Port, Adani Ennore, and Kattupalli Port/Terminals officials for their cooperation with CHENSAA members.
Addressing procedural challenges, Leeladharan called on the Shipping Ministry and the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) to eliminate the Export Transshipment Permit (ETP) documentation for Sea to Sea Transshipment Containers. He argued that this procedure is time-consuming and costly, discouraging higher trade volumes. He urged for a system where shipping lines could file manifests directly in Icegate, bypassing additional documentation at the origin and gateway ports, similar to practices in neighboring foreign transshipment ports.
Leeladharanalso noted that while macro-level policy decisions are successful, implementation at the micro level poses significant challenges for the trade sector. He cited the transshipment of containers post-Cabotage law relaxation as an example, where lack of clarity and uniform practice hampers efficiency. He urged authorities to address these micro-level issues to meet the Maritime India Vision (MIV) 2030 goals, reduce revenue loss, and encourage higher trade volumes.
Regarding the New Sea Cargo Manifest and Transshipment Regulation (SCMTR), hesaid that CHENSAA members, guided by DG Systems officials, have begun parallel filing of the SAM .json file under SCMTR in Icegate and are working closely with Customs officials to resolve errors. He mentioned that shipping lines and agents are preparing to comply with additional SCMTR requirements.
The AGM witnessed robust participation from CHENSAA members, underscoring the association’s ongoing efforts to enhance trade operations and address industry concerns.
