Electronic filing requirement: importers and exporters must submit electronic declarations, generating unique identifiers to complete self-assessment. The drafts mandate that authorised persons file import and export declarations electronically through ICES/ICEGATE or via service-centre data entry using prescribed Annexure formats; a declaration is deemed filed and self-assessed when ICES issues a unique bill/shipping bill number, after which originals and endorsed duplicate/exporter/exchange copies are processed and retained or handed over by the proper officer for clearance and any required examination.