Udangudi Notified as New Customs Port for Unloading Imported Coal in Tamil Nadu

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Dated: 27.07.2026

Udangudi Notified as New Customs Port for Unloading Imported Coal in Tamil Nadu

The Government of India has issued a significant amendment to the customs regulations, specifically impacting the import and unloading of coal in Tamil Nadu. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the latest notification and its implications for trade and industry stakeholders.

Background: Customs Act and Port Notifications

Under the Customs Act, 1962, the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) is empowered to designate specific ports for the import and export of goods. These designations are periodically updated to reflect changing trade patterns, infrastructure developments, and policy priorities.

The Latest Amendment: Notification No. 66/2026 – Customs (N.T.)

On July 20, 2026, the Ministry of Finance (Department of Revenue) issued Notification No. 66/2026 – Customs (N.T.), amending the long-standing Notification No. 62/1994-Customs (N.T.). The key change is the addition of Udangudi as a designated customs port in Tamil Nadu for the unloading of imported coal.

Details of the Amendment

State Affected: Tamil Nadu
New Entry Added:
- Port: Udangudi
- Permitted Activity: Unloading of imported coal
Notification Reference: S.O. 3961(E), dated July 20, 2026

The amendment updates the official table of customs ports, inserting Udangudi as item (17) under Tamil Nadu, specifically for the purpose of unloading imported coal.

Implications for Trade and Industry

Enhanced Logistics for Coal Imports:
- The inclusion of Udangudi as a customs port streamlines the import process for coal, reducing transit times and logistical bottlenecks for industries in and around Tamil Nadu.
Support for Local Industry:
- Power plants, manufacturing units, and other coal-dependent sectors in the region will benefit from improved access to imported coal, potentially lowering costs and ensuring a more reliable supply chain.
Boost to Regional Infrastructure:
- The designation is likely to spur further development of port infrastructure and ancillary services in Udangudi, contributing to local economic growth.

Regulatory Context

Principal Notification: The original Notification No. 62/94-Customs (N.T.) was issued on November 21, 1994, and has been amended multiple times to reflect evolving trade needs.
Recent Amendments: The most recent prior amendment was Notification No. 57/2025-Customs (N.T.), dated September 17, 2025.

Conclusion

The addition of Udangudi as a customs port for the unloading of imported coal marks a strategic move by the Government of India to facilitate smoother trade operations and support industrial growth in Tamil Nadu. Stakeholders involved in coal importation and related industries should take note of this regulatory update and adjust their logistics and compliance processes accordingly.

In case you face any issues related to Indirect Tax-Customs, GST, Foreign Trade Policy (FTP), Arbitration matters and Central Licensing and related advisory matters in India then please feel free to get in touch with SJ EXIM Services.

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Source: CBIC, Ministry of Finance, Govt. of India

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