“Representatives from SEZ units and developers highlighted issues related to DTA transactions, duty foregone, ICEGATE connectivity constraints, import monitoring systems, and reverse job work challenges faced by MSMEs,” the commerce and industry ministry said in a statement.
Agrawal assured industry that connectivity concerns with BSNL and issues related to import monitoring systems would be reviewed. He said that shifts in global value chains, increased demand for DTA market access, and the evolving impact of free trade pacts necessitate SEZ policies that align with current economic realities.
IT/ITES stakeholders raised concerns over rules on vacant built-up area classification, timelines for renewal of Letters of Approval and procurement attestation requirements that differ from GST norms, according to the statement.
Participants also drew attention to the lack of parity for SEZ units under concessional import duty and duty drawback schemes available to DTA units, operational inefficiencies introduced by the new Procurement Certificate process, countervailing duties imposed by the US, and the need to review QCO applicability for SEZ-to-DTA sales.
“He assured that the ministry would examine each challenge in detail with a view to strengthening ease of doing business…He emphasised the importance of long-term vision and data-driven policymaking,” it said.