In a strategic move aimed at streamlining operations and bolstering India’s export-oriented industries, the Office of the Zonal Development Commissioner, SEEPZ-SEZ, has introduced round-the-clock Customs operations at the Special Economic Zone in Mumbai. This significant change addresses long-standing requests from exporters, including jewellers, who face mounting pressure to meet tight international shipping schedules and global market demands.

Previously, SEEPZ-SEZ gates were closed from midnight to 4 am, which limited exporters’ ability to move goods at all hours. Now, the 24/7 access, combined with continuous Customs services throughout the year (including public holidays), eliminates these constraints, offering jewellers and other businesses enhanced operational flexibility.

According to Shri Dnyaneshwar B Patil, IAS, Zonal Development Commissioner, SEEPZ-SEZ, this shift is a testament to SEEPZ’s commitment to building a trade-friendly environment that aligns with India’s broader goals of improving trade facilitation and enhancing ease of business. “The decision to operate Customs 365 days a year reflects our dedication to addressing exporters’ challenges and ensuring that goods are cleared swiftly and efficiently,” he said. “This allows our exporters to meet international demands without delays and with greater confidence.”

Here’s how jewellers stand to gain from the 24/7 Customs operations:

1. Increased Operational Flexibility: With unrestricted access to SEEPZ-SEZ gates, jewellers can now move goods at any hour, enabling efficient logistics planning, particularly for time-sensitive shipments. 

2. Faster Customs Clearance: The availability of year-round Customs services reduces bottlenecks, helping jewellers meet tight international delivery deadlines and maintain a competitive edge in global markets.

3. Enhanced Productivity: Eliminating downtime from limited Customs hours allows jewellers to optimize production schedules, resulting in potentially higher productivity and reduced reliance on rigid Customs timings.

4. Reduced Inventory Backlogs: Around-the-clock operations ease storage pressures by enabling a steady flow of goods, minimizing the risk of backlogs—especially during peak export times.

5. Competitive Advantage: The expedited processes enable jewellers to respond quickly to international orders, giving them an edge over competitors in markets with delayed logistics.

6. Improved Ease of Doing Business: SEEPZ-SEZ’s continuous Customs operation aligns with India’s broader goal to make export processes smoother and more predictable, allowing jewellers to focus on growth rather than navigating operational delays.

With this 24/7 Customs initiative, SEEPZ-SEZ not only supports India’s export-oriented jewellery sector but also strengthens its exporters’ ability to operate flexibly and serve international clients efficiently. This strategic upgrade could enhance India’s position in the global market, reinforcing its commitment to a trade-friendly business environment. 

For further information on the continuous Customs operations, stakeholders are encouraged to contact CPS Chauhan, Joint Development Commissioner, SEEPZ-SEZ.