ICEGATE Creates Dummy Port Code “IRHMZ” for Return of Export Cargo Due to Closure of Strait of Hormuz

The Indian Customs Electronic Gateway (ICEGATE) has issued an Advisory dated 27th April 2026 regarding the handling of export cargo returning from international waters due to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz.

The Advisory has been issued in continuation of CBIC’s Circular No. 12/2026-Customs dated March 17, 2026 issued under Section 143AA of the Customs Act, 1962.

As per paragraph 2(a)(i) of the said Circular, in cases where a vessel departs from an Indian port and subsequently lands at another Indian port, the Shipping Line or its authorised agent is required to file the Sea Arrival Manifest (SAM) at the port of landing. The Circular also provided for creation of a dummy port code for such vessels.

In pursuance of the above directions, ICEGATE has informed that the dummy port code “IRHMZ” has been created for facilitating processing of cargo returning due to disruption caused by closure of the Strait of Hormuz.

All concerned stakeholders have been advised to use the dummy port code IRHMZ in cases where the vessel has landed at an Indian port with or without calling at a foreign port.

The initiative is aimed at ensuring smooth Customs processing and trade facilitation during the ongoing maritime disruption affecting international shipping routes.

The Advisory can be accessed at: https://a2ztaxcorp.net/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Advisory_for_Return_of_Export_Cargo_from_International_Waters.pdf