Special Valuation Branch (SVB) process
Heres a complete package to help you navigate the Special Valuation Branch (SVB) process:
1. SVB Questionnaire – Sample Template
Below is a template of the SVB Questionnaire as typically required by Indian Customs. This should be printed on the importer’s letterhead and duly signed by the authorized signatory.
SVB Questionnaire Template
To:
The Deputy/Assistant Commissioner
Special Valuation Branch
Customs House [City]
Basic Information
- Name of Importer:
- IEC Number:
- Address of Importer:
- Name & Address of Foreign Supplier:
- Are the importer and the supplier related as per Rule 2(2) of Customs Valuation (Determination of Value of Imported Goods) Rules, 2007?
Yes / No
If yes, specify the nature of relationship (e.g., parent-subsidiary, joint venture, director on both boards, etc.):
Transaction Details
- Describe the nature of goods imported:
- Are there multiple suppliers under the same group Yes / No
- Are there technical collaboration / license / royalty agreements between importer and supplier?
Yes / No (If yes, attach copy) - Are there any payments made to the foreign supplier or a related party other than the invoice value?
Yes / No
(If yes, give details) - Are any free-of-cost materials or assistance provided by the buyer to the supplier?
Yes / No - Is there a Transfer Pricing Study Report (TPSR) available for the relationship?
Yes / No
(If yes, attach copy) - Are there buyback clauses, technical services, after-sales service, or marketing support provided by either party?
Yes / No
(Give details if applicable)
Pricing and Valuation
- How is the price of imported goods determined ? (e.g., cost-plus, negotiated, fixed pricing formula, etc.)
- Has the importer received any discounts from the supplier ? Yes / No
(Give details) - Is the importer entitled to any commission or incentive from the supplier? Yes /No
Declarations
- Declaration of completeness and correctness of information provided.
Date:
Place:
Signature of Authorized Signatory
Name and Designation
Company Seal
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2. Submission Checklist – SVB Filing
You should submit your SVB documentation in duplicate copies (or as prescribed by your Customs House).
Documents to Submit
S. No. | Document Description | Status (?/?) |
1 | Covering letter requesting initiation of SVB proceedings | |
2 | Duly filled SVB Questionnaire (as above) | |
3 | Copy of IEC | |
4 | PAN Card copy | |
5 | Copy of MOA / AOA or Partnership Deed | |
6 | Copy of Technical Collaboration / License / Royalty Agreement | |
7 | Transfer Pricing Study Report (TP Study) | |
8 | Copies of invoices & Bills of Entry (5–10 recent entries) | |
9 | Annual reports / audited financials (last 3 years) | |
10 | Chartered Accountant Certificate for royalty/technical payments (if applicable) | |
11 | Organization chart (showing ownership structure & group relationships) | |
12 | Sample import product details with HS code and declared value | |
13 | Any correspondence or communication with foreign supplier |
3. Guidance Tailored to Your Business/Industry
Please share the following so I can provide customized SVB guidance:
- Nature of your business (e.g., electronics, pharma, auto parts, fashion, FMCG, etc.)
- Type of goods you import
- Whether you import from a related party (Y/N)
- Do you pay royalties, technical fees, or license fees ? (Y/N)
- Do you have a TP Report ? (Y/N)
- Any unique business arrangement or concern ?
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