The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) has issued Circular No. 29/2026-Customs, announcing the Pan-India implementation of the Sea Cargo Manifest and Transhipment Regulations (SCMTR), 2018, while extending the transition period until 31 August 2026 to facilitate smooth adoption by stakeholders.
The circular notes that the electronic message framework under SCMTR has now been successfully implemented nationwide across key cargo movement processes, including gateway port arrivals and departures, export transhipment, and inland cargo movements. With effect from 1 July 2026, all prescribed SCMTR messages—except Import Transhipment (ITP) messages—have become operational across India.
To support the transition, CBIC has decided to extend the transitional provisions under SCMTR until 31 August 2026. During this period, shipping lines, shipping agents, authorised carriers, terminal operators, custodians, and other stakeholders are expected to electronically file all prescribed SCMTR messages (except ITP). The Board has also clarified that no penal action will be initiated for technical or procedural difficulties encountered in online filing up to 31 August 2026, providing the trade additional time to adapt to the new digital framework.
The circular further directs field formations and DG Systems to conduct outreach sessions, assist stakeholders in resolving implementation issues, and issue suitable public notices wherever necessary to ensure seamless nationwide adoption of SCMTR.