Customs requests international passengers to make use of ATITHI 2.0 App to declare dutiable goods

The ATITHI 2.0 app is now being promoted for international passengers to declare dutiable items, streamlining the customs process. This initiative aims to modernize and expedite customs clearance, ensuring transparency and ease of compliance for travelers. By using the app, passengers can pre-declare items, reducing wait times and potential disputes at customs checkpoints. The app facilitates the declaration of goods attracting customs duty, ensuring compliance with import regulations. This move is expected to enhance the overall experience for international passengers while improving the efficiency of customs operations. The use of technology aligns with the government's vision of a digitally empowered customs administration, fostering better compliance and revenue collection. Failure to declare dutiable goods accurately can lead to penalties and legal consequences under the Customs Act, 1962.

Section 46 of the Customs Act, 1962 requires passengers to declare dutiable goods. Failure to declare such goods accurately can lead to penalties under Section 112 or confiscation under Section 125 of the same Act. The ATITHI 2.0 app aims to facilitate compliance with these provisions.

The ATITHI 2.0 app represents a shift towards digital compliance in customs administration. While it promises efficiency, CAs should advise clients to maintain thorough records of declared items and valuations. Discrepancies between declared and assessed values could still trigger scrutiny and potential litigation.

The ATITHI 2.0 app simplifies customs declarations, reducing compliance burdens and potential penalties for clients.