Suspected Photocopiers Ordered to Re-export

Two importers will have to re-export its photocopiers from India, as Customs Department of Kochi port has deemed shipment to be dangerous e-waste.

According to thehindu.com, Customs Commissioner K. Raghavan has issued an order to the two importers, following directions from Kerala State Pollution Control Board and the Kerala High court.

As per the order, over 3,100 machines out of the 8,000-odd machines arrived in the Kochi port would be sent back immediately. Meanwhile, the importers will face a redemption fine of ₹1.2 crore (US $179,649), ₹1 crore (US $149,707) on Athul Automation and ₹30 lakh (US $44,912.2) on Parag Domestic Appliances in specific.

In addition, thehindu.com reported that the department has also issued show-cause notices to nine other importers who imported photocopier machines using the same route. The department has already commenced adjudication of the 63 consignments in 40-feet containers, each carrying between 100 and 120 photocopiers.

It is said that around 90 container shipments were seized by the Customs officials, with each shipment carrying 100-120 multifunctional digital printers mainly from the U.S. and Germany.

These printers were found to contain poisonous elements such as cadmium, selenium and iridium.

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