CBIC Circular 2026: New AEO T1 Direct Port Delivery for Nhavasheva

## Key points The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) has released **Circular No. 24/2026-Customs** on August 10, 2026, aimed at decongesting major maritime hubs. The circular mandates that all Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) T1 status holders will now receive 'Default Direct Port Delivery (DPD)' rights at the Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (Nhavasheva), regardless of their past volume history. Previously, DPD was often restricted to T2 and T3 status holders or those with specific volume commitments. As per the new CBIC guidelines, the Risk Management System (RMS) will now automatically trigger DPD clearance for T1 certified MSMEs. This reduces the need for movement to Container Freight Stations (CFS), cutting logistics costs by approximately 15-20% per TEU. ## What this means for exporters For manufacturing importers who rely on timely raw material inputs for their export production, this move drastically reduces dwell time. It streamlines the supply chain and improves liquidity by releasing goods faster for production. **Who should act now:** Importers currently holding AEO T1 status who use Nhavasheva port for their logistics. You should update your DPD registration with the port terminals immediately. Need help upgrading your status or registering for DPD? Contact our AEO advisory team at 'We Design For You' to expedite your port clearances.