New Customs Manual 2023: Classifying Goods with Detailed Tariff Codes and GIR Rules for Trade and Duty Clarity.
The Customs Manual 2023 outlines the methodology for classifying goods under the Indian Customs Tariff, which consists of 21 sections and 98 chapters. Goods are arranged by their manufacturing stage, from natural products to fully finished goods. The Harmonized System (HS) provides codes up to six digits, while India extends this to eight digits for detailed classification. The classification process involves specific rules (GIR) and relies on statutory definitions, trade meanings, and HS Explanatory Notes. The manual also covers duty rates, tariff advice, and the role of the DGFT in regulating import and export through the ITC(HS) Classification.