The Ministry of Commerce and Industry has launched the Coal Import Monitoring System (CIMS), under which importers are required to provide prior information in an online system for import and obtain an automated registration number or CIMS registration for foreign trade policy measures. According to the CIMS, advance information is to be filed in an online system to import steam coal. For registration purposes, no manual document is required by the system; once you submit online data/information then it will automatically issue a registration number. On registration, the coal importers will be issued with a unique registration number referred to as the URN, which will start with COA.
CIMS seeks to guarantee that only quality coal is imported into the country, as well as regulate the market for coal imports and safeguard local coal producers from unfair competition. The system is important in helping the government make informed decisions on coal import policies by providing them with accurate and reliable information regarding the quantity, value, and quality of coal imports.
CIMS or Coal Import Monitoring System, is a digital platform launched by the Indian Ministry of Commerce and Industry to effectively monitor and regulate the import of coal products into India. Before shipping products to India, importers must register their coal import-related information in an online database. This information includes the name of the importer, the country of origin of the coal, the quantity of coal being imported, and the port of entry. CIMS is designed to help the Indian government track the import of coal products and ensure that only high-quality coal products are imported into the country. It is also designed to help the government protect the domestic coal industry from unfair competition from imported coal products.
Importers must register under CIMS when dealing with the following coal types:
Product Name | Usage/Application | HS Code |
---|---|---|
Anthracite Coal | High carbon coal used in metal smelting and industrial power plants. | 27011100 |
Bituminous Coal | Used for electricity generation, cement production, and steel manufacturing. . | 27011200 |
Coking Coal | Essential for coke production in steel industries. . | 27011910 |
Steam Coal | Primarily used for steam generation in thermal power stations. | 27011920 |
Other Coall | Includes miscellaneous types used in various industries. | 27011990 |
The Coal Import Monitoring System (CIMS) is a crucial initiative by the Government of India to enhance transparency and efficiency in coal imports.
• Curbing Unfair Trade Practices: The main goal of CIMS is to prevent unfair trade practices, such as dumping and under-invoicing, which can harm the domestic coal industry. The government can identify and address such issues promptly by keeping a comprehensive record of coal imports.
• Data-Driven Decision Making: CIMS provides essential data to policymakers, allowing them to make informed decisions on tariffs, quotas, and other trade-related issues. This data-driven approach helps to ensure the overall growth and stability of the coal sector.
To complete the CIMS registration process, the following documents are required:
• Basic Details and Documents of Applicants: Personal and company details as required by CIMS.
• Proof of Business: Documentation verifying the business’s legitimacy and registration.
• Digital Signature Certificate (e-Token): An e-Token for secure online submission.
• Import Export Code (IEC): A valid Import Export Code issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT).
• RCMC (Registration Cum Membership Certificate): A certificate showing membership with an export promotion council or authority.
The registration fee for CIMS (Common Information Management System) has been prescribed at ₹500 by the Director General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), Government of India.
Particulars | LMPC Certificate Fees |
---|---|
Government Fee | ₹ 500 |
Professional Fee | ₹ 2,500 |
Total Fee | ₹3,000 |
Note: The aforementioned Fees is exclusive of GST.
• Step 1: Create Your CIMS Account
To begin the registration, importers must first create an account on the CIMS portal. This requires providing essential details, including personal/company information and uploading necessary supporting documents for verification.
• Step 2: Submit Product Details
Importers must provide comprehensive information about the imported coal products, such as:
• Quantity of coal
• Value of the products
• Country of origin
This data must be entered accurately to ensure compliance with import regulations.
• Step 3: Monitoring and Compliance
Once registered, importers are subject to ongoing monitoring and compliance checks to confirm that all regulations are being followed. This step ensures adherence to the rules governing coal imports.
The Coal Import Monitoring System (CIMS) was introduced by the Government of India to ensure transparent, regulated, and accountable coal imports, supporting domestic industry growth and informed policymaking.
1. Transparency and Accountability CIMS enhances transparency in the coal import process by promoting greater accountability among importers and minimizing the risk of malpractices.
2. Protection of the Domestic Industry By closely monitoring coal imports, CIMS safeguards the interests of the domestic coal industry. It ensures fair competition, protects local businesses, and fosters sustainable sectoral growth.
3. Informed Decision-Making The comprehensive data collected through CIMS empowers government authorities to make informed decisions regarding tariffs, trade policies, and regulatory measures, ultimately benefiting the national economy.
Challenges and Future Prospects
1. Technological Challenges Although CIMS is a commendable initiative, it has encountered implementation challenges, such as technical glitches and the need for ongoing system upgrades. Continuous efforts are essential to improve operational efficiency and user experience.
2. Expanding Coverage In the future, the government may explore expanding CIMS to monitor additional critical commodities. Broadening its scope would enhance CIMS’s role as a comprehensive trade monitoring tool, strengthening India’s trade and industrial ecosystem.
The dynamic world of international trade has seen India’s CIMS registration system emerge as a vital tool for efficiently monitoring and regulating coal imports. By promoting transparency, protecting domestic industries, and aiding informed decision-making, CIMS makes a significant contribution to the growth and stability of the Indian coal sector.
At Professional Utilities, we leverage our industry knowledge and expertise to help businesses navigate complex regulations, minimize risks, and optimize operations for maximum efficiency and profitability.
CIMS registration is the process of signing up for the Coal Import Monitoring System, a digital platform that the Indian government has implemented to effectively monitor and regulate coal imports.
Anyone involved in Coal import activities in India, including importers, traders, and manufacturers, must register on the CIMS portal.
The Coal Import Monitoring System (CIMS) helps the domestic coal industry by promoting transparency, protecting domestic industries from unfair trade practices, and providing valuable data for informed decision-making.
CIMS has faced technological challenges, including glitches and system upgrades. Continuous efforts are required to improve its functionality.