Briefly explain the following with reference to the provisions of the Customs Act, 1962: (i) Remission of duty on imported goods lost

Answer 4(b) (i) Remission of duty on imported goods lost: Section 23(1) of the Customs Act, 1962 provides for remission of duty on imported goods lost (otherwise than as a result of pilferage) or destroyed, if such loss or destruction is at any time before clearance for home consumption. Such loss or destruction covers loss by leakage. Duty is payable under this section but it is remitted by Assistant/Deputy Commissioner of Customs if the importer is able to prove the loss or destruction. Thus, unless remitted, duty has to be paid and burden of proof is on the importer. The provisions of this section are applicable for warehoused goods also.