The government has relaxed customs procedures for export cargo returning to India after vessels were forced to turn back due to disruptions in maritime routes, including the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. The measures, effective for 15 days from 8th March 2026, include allowing containers to be unloaded without standard import paperwork, such as a Bill of Entry, and enabling the cancellation of shipping bills even after the Export General Manifest (EGM) has been filed. The authorities will verify container details against shipping bills and check seal integrity, with 100% examination for tampered or broken seals. If exporters have already received tax benefits or export incentives (e.g., IGST refunds, duty drawback), these amounts must be repaid to the government. Meanwhile, a new option will be introduced on the ICEGATE platform to facilitate the cancellation of shipping bills post-EGM.