In a recent judicial ruling, the Punjab and Haryana High Court addressed procedural delays by customs officials that led to substantial losses for a fruit trader in Punjab. The trader, based in Ludhiana, Punjab, faced a financial setback when 89,420 kilograms of kiwi fruit, imported from Chile via Dubai, deteriorated during an extended clearance delay at Mundra Port. The shipment, valued at approximately $80,478, remained uncleared for over three months, resulting in spoilage.
The court, comprising Justices Sanjeev Prakash Sharma and Sanjay Vashisth, criticized the actions of the customs officials and the shipping company, M/s Transliner Maritime Pvt. Ltd. The behavior of these entities was described as grossly irresponsible, prompting the court to order compensation for the trader. The judgment mandated a compensation payment of around $60,000 and instructed the refund of the customs duty paid by the trader, with an annual interest rate of 6%.
This case underscores the importance of efficient procedures for the clearance of perishable goods to prevent financial losses in the agricultural import sector. The ruling highlights the necessity for customs and shipping entities to adhere to prompt clearance processes, ensuring that delays do not adversely impact traders dealing with time-sensitive commodities.
Source: Kaumudi Online