Bhubaneswar, March 2 -- In a significant reform aimed at strengthening domestic manufacturing and improving ease of doing business, the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) has introduced a deferred Customs duty payment facility for a new category of importers titled Eligible Manufacturer Importers (EMIs).

The measure, announced in the Union Budget 2026-27 by the Union Finance Minister, is positioned as a trust-based facilitation initiative designed to improve liquidity for manufacturers while encouraging higher compliance standards.

Under the newly notified framework, Eligible Manufacturer Importers will be allowed to clear imported goods without paying Customs duty at the time of clearance. Instead, duties can be paid on...