The Paper Import Monitoring System, in short PIMS, has been a significant regulatory change in the paper import sector of India. This system will ensure fairness in trade, transparency, control, and facilitation in the import of various paper products into the Indian market. Since the industries based on paper continue to grow, both importers and stakeholders need to know the complete framework of PIMS, its registration, compliance matters, timelines, and documentation.
In this comprehensive guide, you will know everything about PIMS: how the PIMS register works, what the full form of PIMS is, how to get the PIMS certificate, and what does PIMS DGFT notification mandate.
Introduction to PIMS: Paper Import Monitoring System
The full form of PIMS is Paper Import Monitoring System. In the Paper Import Monitoring System brought about by the DGFT, all importers of specific categories of paper are required to comply with the pre-import registration. Govt. launched PIMS to monitor paper import, curb dumping, and build a transparent database of import transactions.
Under this system, the importers will be mandatorily required to get themselves registered with PIMS on the DGFT portal and obtain a unique PIMS certificate prior to filing the Bill of Entry.
From its inception onwards, PIMS has been a basic compliance requirement for industries involved with the import of paper, printing companies, traders, packaging units, publishers, stationery manufacturers, and other bulk users of paper.
Objective of the Paper Import Monitoring System (PIMS)
The paper import monitoring system was initiated for:
- Information on importation of paper that is reliable and up-to-date
- Prevent undervaluation and mis-declaration of paper products
- Allow for advance planning by domestic manufacturers
- Strengthen the monitoring of customs authorities
- Reduced flow of low-quality or cheap foreign paper
- Hold importers accountable through PIMS certification and required reporting
- Ensure only valid and compliant entities register under the PIMS register
This transparent mechanism will aid policymakers in better analyzing market trends and controlling the paper price gaps, so as not to be adverse to domestic industries' interests.
Applicability of PIMS
Various PIMS DGFT notifications specify the HSN paper categories coming under this program. It applies to:
- Newsprint
- Varieties of paperboard
- Kraft paper
- Paper: uncoated and coated.
- Branded and unbranded printing paper
- Tissue and specialty paper categories
Any importer dealing in any of the above products is required to undergo PIMS registration and obtain a PIMS certificate before undertaking customs clearance. Delays, penalties, and rejection of Bills of Entry would be the consequences of non-compliance.
Who needs to register in PIMS?
If an entity is involved in paper import, then PIMS registration shall be required irrespective of:
- Import volume
- Type of importer: Manufacturer, trader, publisher, dealer
- Place of origin
- Import Mode
The importer needs to log in to the DGFT portal and update the PIMS register with the details of paper products being imported. Once done successfully, the importer is given a unique PIMS certificate which has to be produced at the time of filing the customs entry.
The PIMS certification is done on a recurring basis by firms that regularly import paper to avoid business delays.
Compulsory requirements for registration on PIMS
The importer should prepare the following to complete PIMS registration:
1. IEC - Import Export Code
2. Login by authorized user on DGFT portal
3. Specifications of the imported paper grade
4. Country of origin and supplier details
5. Quantity, price, invoice and technical specifications
6. Import port
7. Anticipated shipment arrival date
After filling in these details in the PIMS register, a unique PIMS certificate is generated which is valid for 75 days from the date of registration.
Timeline Requirements Under PIMS
The paper import monitoring system prescribes strict timelines:
- The registration has to be made at least 5 days in advance of the Bill of Lading date.
- The PIMS certificate is valid for 75 days from the date of registration.
- Shipments arriving after the expiry date need new registration in PIMS.
Importers should pay close attention to timelines to avoid shipment delays or detention charges. Regular importers maintain an average of continuous PIMS certification cycles to meet ongoing demand.
Step-by-Step Procedure for PIMS Registration
Following is the step-by-step process for achieving PIMS certification:
Step 1: Log in to DGFT Portal
Log in to the DGFT website using your IEC and password. PIMS DGFT section provides the relevant options for PIMS register entries.
Step 2: Choose Paper Import Monitoring System
Under "Services," click on PIMS and select "Apply for PIMS Registration."
Step 3: Fill Import Details
Provide
- HSN code
- Paper type
- Provider name
- Quantity & value
- Points of entry
- Anticipated arrival date
- Supporting documents
This is recorded in the PIMS register for verification.
Step 4: Pay the PIMS Registration Fee
After filling in the application in the PIMS register, the importer is obliged to make a required Government Fee payment for completing the PIMS registration process.
- The existing fee is ₹500 per application as per DGFT notification.
- Payment is online through the DGFT portal through a debit card, credit card, net banking, or UPI.
- The fee is non-refundable in the event of cancellation, delay in shipment, or expiry of the PIMS certificate.
Once the payment is made successfully, the application gets processed in the DGFT system and the importer proceeds for downloading the PIMS certificate.
Step 5: Download PIMS Certificate
Importer can download the PIMS certificate after approval. Customs will allow clearance only if the certificate is valid at the time of filing the Bill of Entry.
Importance of PIMS Certification for Importers
The PIMS certificate serves as a major compliance document for paper import. Its importance includes:
- Compulsory for customs clearance
- Prevents unnecessary queries by customs officers.
- Helps importers maintain an audit trail
- Ensuring legality and authenticity of import transaction documents
- Building credibility with suppliers and associates in logistics
On-time PIMS certification is important to continued smooth supply-chain operations, where businesses import several consignments within the year.
Key PIMS Advantages to the Industry
Implementation of PIMS has many advantageous features:
For Government
- Better control of undervalued paper imports
- Information for policy-making
- Better monitoring through PIMS DGFT systems
- Transparency of supply chain movements
For Domestic Industry
- Less unfair competition
- More balanced market pricing
- Stability in demand-supply patterns
For Importers
- Simplified compliance
- Predictable documentation requirements
- Clear timelines under the paper import monitoring system
Overall, PIMS creates better trade practices and eliminates market exploitation.
Common Challenges in PIMS Registration
Despite all the advantages, there are some challenges concerning PIMS registration for importers, and these are:
- Self-selected incorrect HSN code
- Technical difficulties on the DGFT portal
- Inconsistencies between the application and invoice data
- Expired certificates requiring re-registration
- Lack of clarity on PIMS DGFT guidelines
- PIMS register entries documentation errors
To avoid such issues, most importers will prefer professional assistance in order to get on-time and accurate PIMS certification.
How SKMC Global Can Assist in PIMS Registration
The firm has emerged as one of the top compliance consultancies on import-export regulations, DGFT licensing, and trade documentation. With rich experience in PIMS registration, SKMC Global helps organizations handle an entire compliance-related work.
Our services include:
- End-to-end support in PIMS registration
- Verification of HSN eligibility under the paper import monitoring system
- Product documentation assessment
- Accurately filling in and updating the PIMS register
- Coordinating with DGFT for timely issuance of the PIMS certificate
- Advisory support on PIMS DGFT notifications and regulatory changes
- Assisting importers in avoiding penalties, delays, and customs detentions
At SKMC Global, businesses can ensure flawless compliance with the PIMS framework and smooth paper import activities.
Conclusion
The PIMS – Paper Import Monitoring System has emerged as a vital regulatory requirement for importers of all paper and related products. With a view to transparency, monitoring, and fair trade, PIMS has ensured that the domestic paper industry is protected and that the imports are conducted genuinely. Timely registration to PIMS, keeping updated entries in the PIMS register, and possessing a valid PIMS certificate are the prerequisites for smooth customs clearance.
The paper import monitoring system and adherence to PIMS DGFT compliance guidelines are a must-know for any entity operating as a small trader or large manufacturing unit.
Whether you require expert support on certification, compliance audits, documentation, or even complete handholding for PIMS registration, SKMC Global has the professional expertise and reliable service network to assist you.