Revise NFMIMS Registration Timeline for Copper and Aluminium

Revise NFMIMS Registration Timeline for Copper and Aluminium Imports

The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) has issued Notification No. 22/2026-27, introducing changes to the import policy provisions under Chapter 74 (Copper) and Chapter 76 (Aluminium) of the ITC (HS), 2022.

The amendment modifies the compliance timeline for obtaining registration under the Non-Ferrous Metal Import Monitoring System (NFMIMS) and takes effect immediately.

Key Change

Earlier, importers were required to complete NFMIMS registration before the import consignment arrived in India.

Following the amendment, importers can now obtain the mandatory NFMIMS Registration Number at any time before the Customs authorities issue the “Out of Charge” order, which marks the final stage of Customs clearance permitting the goods to leave the Customs area.

What Remains Unchanged?

The notification does not alter the overall registration framework. The following provisions continue to apply:

• Registration is mandatory for notified copper and aluminium products covered under the relevant annexures.
• Applications must be submitted through the online NFMIMS portal.
• The prescribed registration fee under Appendix 2K remains applicable.
• Registration can still be filed up to 60 days before the expected arrival of the shipment.
• The automatically generated Registration Number will continue to remain valid for 75 days.

Chapters Affected

The amendment revises:

• Chapter 74 – Policy Condition 3(c) (Copper)
• Chapter 76 – Policy Condition 1(c) (Aluminium)

Practical Impact for Importers

The revised policy offers greater operational flexibility by extending the deadline for obtaining NFMIMS registration. Instead of completing the process before the vessel or cargo arrives, importers now have additional time until the goods are ready for final Customs clearance.

This relaxation is expected to:

• Reduce the risk of procedural delays.
• Provide additional time for completing registration formalities.
• Simplify compliance for importers dealing in non-ferrous metals.
• Support smoother Customs clearance of eligible consignments.

The amendment is effective immediately from the date of issue of Notification No. 22/2026-27.

Check Out: What is CPGRAMS?

Go to DGFT

Read More Updates on DGFT