Export of galvanized steel from Kolkata port has been hit by a sudden move of the customs authorities in Kolkata to impose 20 per cent export duty on the commodity.

From last week the custom authorities have suddenly started imposing 20 per cent export duty on galvanized steel, which has severely impacted the export of steel from Kolkata. Except, Kolkata, no other port has been imposing such duty on steel, said a spokesperson of Engineering Export Promotion Council.

Several export consignments were stranded in the port area due to the confusion surrounding sudden imposition of the duty, said the EEPC official.
According to the second schedule of the customs tariff, , all products under HS Code 7210 (Flat rolled products of iron or non-alloy steel, plated or coated with Zinc) are subject to 20 per cent export duty. However, so long no such duty was being imposed, and Kolkata port was the only port to impose such duty, said EEPC spokesperson.

Exporters have requested EEPC to take up the matter with the customs authorities and include flat rolled products of iron or non-alloy steel, plated or coated with Zinc, in the exemption category.

Customs authorities could not be reached for comments.