GST in Action – A Practical Perspective

As part of the conference, Sanjay Chhabria delivered a comprehensive session on Customs – Supply Chain and International Trade, exploring the crucial intersection of customs law and indirect taxation.

The session unpacked key components of customs legislation, beginning with constitutional and legal definitions of import/export and the taxable event under the Customs Act, 1962. Participants were guided through the principles of classification and valuation of goods, with focus on how duties are calculated, including BCD, IGST, and anti-dumping duties.

Sanjay delved into real-world import scenarios—such as high-seas sales, second-hand machinery, software imports, and free samples—clarifying their tax treatment and compliance obligations. He also addressed valuation mechanisms under Section 14, distinguishing customs valuation from GST valuation.

The latter half of the session focused on government-led trade facilitation schemes like Advance Authorization, EPCG, RoDTEP, and the AEO (Authorized Economic Operator) program. Emphasis was placed on eligibility, compliance timelines, and the duty benefits available under each.

By bridging regulatory understanding with business application, the session equipped tax professionals and supply chain leaders with practical strategies for customs compliance, cost management, and leveraging export incentives within the GST framework.