Horizon Business Solutions(HBS) a complete guide to NFMIMS (Non-Ferrous Metal Import Monitoring System) — a regulatory framework introduced by India’s Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) to monitor imports of copper and aluminum products.
🧭 What is NFMIMS?
NFMIMS is an online system that requires importers of certain non-ferrous metals to register their consignments in advance. It was implemented via DGFT Notification No. 61/2015–2020, effective from 12 April 2021.
🎯 Goal of NFMIMS
The system aims to:
- Track and analyze import trends of copper and aluminum
- Ensure transparency in trade data
- Prevent misclassification and misuse of HS codes
- Support domestic industry by enabling timely policy interventions
- Streamline customs clearance through digital registration
📘 Chapters and HS Codes Covered
NFMIMS applies to specific HS codes under the following chapters of the ITC (HS), 2017 Schedule I:
These items were previously under “Free” import policy but now require compulsory registration under NFMIMS before filing the Bill of Entry.
📝 Registration Highlights
- Portal: NFMIMS Portal
- Fee: ₹500 per registration
- Validity: 75 days from date of issue
- Timing: Registration can be done up to 60 days before arrival or even on the day of arrival
- URN: A unique registration number starting with “NFS” is issued and must be declared in the Bill of Entry
🚫 Exemptions
- Air-freighted goods are exempt from NFMIMS due to their emergency/high-value nature
- Multiple consignments can be imported under one registration as long as it’s within the validity period
📘 NFMIMS – Frequently Asked Questions
🔹 1. What is NFMIMS?
NFMIMS is a mandatory online registration system for importing specific copper and aluminum products under Chapters 74 and 76 of ITC (HS), 2017. It helps monitor import trends and support domestic industry.
🔹 2. Which products are covered?
- Chapter 74: Copper and copper alloys (e.g., rods, wires, plates)
- Chapter 76: Aluminum and aluminum alloys (e.g., bars, foils, tubes)
- A total of 89 HS codes are covered — 46 for copper and 43 for aluminum
🔹 3. Is registration mandatory for all import modes?
No. Imports via air freight are exempt from NFMIMS registration due to their emergency or high-value nature
🔹 4. Can multiple consignments be imported under one registration?
Yes. You can import multiple consignments under a single NFMIMS registration as long as it’s within the 75-day validity period
🔹 5. Is Quality Control Order (QCO) description mandatory?
No. Including QCO details in the registration is optional, and customs officers are not required to verify it during clearance
🔹 6. Is NFMIMS applicable to SEZs, Advance Authorization, or DFIA?
Yes. NFMIMS applies to imports under Advance Authorization, DFIA, and SEZs, unless specifically exempted
🔹 7. What is the registration fee?
A flat fee of ₹500 per registration is charged
🔹 8. How long is the registration valid?
Each registration is valid for 75 days from the date of issue
🔹 9. Where can I register?
Use the official NFMIMS Portal to submit your application and receive your URN (Unique Registration Number)