Tue Dec 10 00:49:58 UTC 2024: ## Andhra Pradesh: Customs Seizes Only Illegal PDS Rice Containers, Not Entire Ships
**Visakhapatnam, December 7, 2024** – The Principal Commissioner of Customs and Central Excise, N. Sridhar, clarified that only containers found to be carrying illegally exported PDS rice will be seized, not the entire cargo ship. This follows reports of PDS rice being exported from Kakinada port.
Sridhar stated that action will be taken against those illegally transporting the rice, but not against the shipping vessels themselves. He explained that a single cargo ship carries numerous containers belonging to different companies and traders. Seizing the entire ship would be impractical and unfair to those who have followed regulations.
A meeting with stakeholders including rice exporters, millers, and port authorities was held to address concerns. Sridhar emphasized that a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Civil Supplies Department is mandatory for all rice exports, and thorough document verification is undertaken before loading. Any suspected PDS rice will be sent for testing, with results expected within 15 days. Until then, the shipment will be halted.
The Customs department reaffirmed its commitment to preventing illegal exports and imports and assured full cooperation with the state government’s efforts to curb such activities. Sanjay Reddy, Chief Commissioner of Customs and Central Excise, Visakhapatnam zone, also emphasized the need for continued cooperation from stakeholders to maintain transparency and prevent illegal activities. The meeting highlighted the importance of strict adherence to export procedures and regulations to avoid any irregularities.
First Piper 