PIMS (Paper Import Monitoring System)

PIMS is a mandatory online registration system introduced by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) for the import of various paper and paperboard products. It is designed to collect advance data on imports to monitor trade trends, prevent the dumping of low-quality paper, and protect the domestic paper industry.

It is mandatory for all importers of paper products classified under Chapter 48 of the ITC (HS) code (covering approx. 201 tariff lines), including newsprint, handmade paper, and cartons.

• Timeline: Registration must be done no earlier than 75 days and no later than 5 days before the expected date of arrival of the import consignment.

• Validity: The Unique Registration Number (URN) is valid for 75 days and can cover multiple consignments within that period for the permitted quantity.

• Exemptions: Items like currency paper, bank bonds, and cheque paper are generally excluded.

Required Documents

• Active IEC: Importer-Exporter Code linked with the DGFT portal.

• Digital Signature Certificate (DSC): For secure authentication.

• Proforma Invoice / Purchase Order: To provide quantity and value details.

• Commercial Invoice & Packing List: For verifying shipment specifications.

• RCMC (Recommended): Registration Cum Membership Certificate may be required in some instances.

• Technical Specifications: Details of the paper grade and its intended end-use.