PIMS (Paper Import Monitoring System)—a key compliance mechanism introduced by DGFT to regulate paper imports into India:
📄 What Is PIMS?
PIMS stands for Paper Import Monitoring System, launched by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) in 2022. It mandates compulsory registration for importers of certain paper products under Chapter 48 of the ITC (HS) Schedule-I.
The goal? To curb under-invoicing, misclassification, and rerouting of paper imports, while supporting domestic manufacturing under the Make in India initiative.
Here’s a complete overview of PIMS (Paper Import Monitoring System)—a key compliance mechanism introduced by DGFT to regulate paper imports into India:
📄 What Is PIMS?
PIMS stands for Paper Import Monitoring System, launched by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) in 2022. It mandates compulsory registration for importers of certain paper products under Chapter 48 of the ITC (HS) Schedule-I.
The goal? ” To curb under-invoicing, misclassification, and rerouting of paper imports, while supporting domestic manufacturing under the Make in India initiative”.
🧾 Key Features of PIMS
- Applies to 201 tariff lines of paper products (e.g., newsprint, coated paper, kraft paper)
- Registration must be completed at least 5 days before import
- Valid for 75 days from the date of issuance
- Mandatory for all modes of transport, including air cargo
- Online registration via the DGFT PIMS Portal
🚫 Exemptions from PIMS
- Samples valued below ₹10,000 FOB are exempt
- Non-commercial imports by individuals or government agencies may be exempt on a case-by-case basis under Para 2.58 of the Foreign Trade Policy
- Imports under Advance Authorization, DFIA, IGCR, EOU, SEZ are not exempt—PIMS is still mandatory
📝 How to Register
- Visit the PIMS Portal
- Log in using your IEC credentials
- Select the relevant tariff line and product category
- Fill in shipment details (origin, quantity, value)
- Submit and download the registration certificate
⚠️ Non-Compliance Consequences
- Imports without valid PIMS registration may be denied clearance
- Incorrect or false data may lead to penalties under the FTDR Act, 1992
Here’s a detailed overview of the HS codes and chapter covered under India’s Paper Import Monitoring System (PIMS), as per DGFT’s official notifications:
📘 PIMS Coverage: Chapter & HS Codes
🔹 Chapter 48 – Paper and Paperboard
PIMS applies to 201 tariff lines under Chapter 48 of the ITC (HS), 2022 Schedule-I (Import Policy). This includes:
| HS Code Range | Description |
|---|---|
| 4801 | Newsprint, in rolls or sheets |
| 4802 | Uncoated paper for writing, printing, or photocopying |
| 4804 | Uncoated kraft paper and paperboard |
| 4805 | Other uncoated paper and paperboard |
| 4806 | Vegetable parchment, tracing paper, and similar |
| 4807 | Composite paper and paperboard |
| 4808 | Paper and paperboard, corrugated |
| 4810 | Coated paper and paperboard |
| 4811 | Paper and paperboard with surface treatments |
| 4812 | Filter paper and paperboard |
| 4813 | Cigarette paper |
| 4816 | Carbon paper, self-copy paper |
| 4820 | Registers, notebooks, diaries, and similar articles |
These products require mandatory registration under PIMS before importation, regardless of the mode of transport or import scheme (Advance Authorization, IGCR, EOU, SEZ, etc.).
📝 Registration Timeline & Validity
- Registration must be completed at least 5 days before import
- Valid for 75 days from the date of issuance
- Applies to all commercial imports, including air cargo
⚠️ Exemptions
- Samples valued below ₹10,000 FOB
- Non-commercial imports by individuals or government agencies (case-by-case basis under Para 2.58 of FTP)