According to a member alert from the Institute of Scrap Recycling Industries (ISRI) India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced this week that the national lockdown there will be extended through May 3. The Indian recycling industry continues to be closed and there has not yet been guidance on extending free days at the ports.
In a General Advisory to its members, the Materials Recycling Association of India (MRAI) appeals to the membership for cooperation to ensure long-term trade opportunities. The advisory includes recommendations on honoring existing contracts and requests parties to find equitable solutions to disagreements, including utilizing MRAI's mediation services as needed. The advisory also notes MRAI's daily advocacy with central and local governments regarding port and shipping operations.
Although the Indian Government has not yet announced an extension of free days at the ports, the Customs Commission has issued a Public Notice suspending penalties on late-arriving shipping documents up until May 3. Because courier services have been suspended, containers that arrived during the lockdown period will not have their paperwork. The suspension of late fees will provide some relief to suppliers and importers.
