Reply: This information is being compiled and would be furnished shortly.
Switzerland 14:
Report by the Secretariat: III. Trade policies and practices by measure: (2) Measures directly affecting imports: (v) Other charges affecting imports: Paras 42 – 46 and 50:
With reference to paragraphs 42 to 46 and 50, a number of Swiss industries raised the issue that the number, complexity, variation by region and levels of India's various duties and charges make it difficult for them to ensure predictability in their business relations. As shown in table III.8, these duties and charges can double or even triple the MFN applied rate. Switzerland would therefore welcome any information India might provide on any reforms it may be planning to streamline and reduce the burden that such additional duties and charges represent. In particular, any information about creating an Advanced Ruling system that would provide a binding assessment regarding these duties and charges in addition to the items mentioned in paragraph 17 above would be of interest.
Reply: The duties and charges as mentioned in the aforementioned paragraphs are in the nature of charges equivalent to internal taxes applied at the border in order to provide level playing field for the domestic industry. In case the domestic duties are reduced, equivalent reduction takes place in case of imported goods too. For example, with reduction in the standard rate of excise duty from 16% in 2007 08 to 10% now, the rate of additional duty of customs has also come down to that rate.
