China plans to impose new rules governing the entry of cargo, in a move that could raise the cost of Indian exports to China.
All cargo bound for China will be subject to the 24-hour advance manifest rule. In shipping terminology, a manifest is a document that lists all cargo carried on a specific vessel. According to the new regulation, carriers undertaking shipments to China must submit manifest details to Chinese customs 24 hours before a ship arrives at the port of loading anywhere in the world.
One trade notice issued to customers by Chinese shipping firm COSCO Container Lines read: "Upon screening of the manifest data received, Chinese customs will advise the carrier whether or not the cargo can be allowed into China. Only if customs feedback/response is positive, can cargo be accepted on board a ship. Under no circumstances may a carrier be allowed to load cargo if the manifest filing is rejected by Chinese customs."
The new regulation is expected to have a significant impact on the way shipping lines and customers handle their documentation and operations for shipments bound for China.
Tracey Jia