The Directorate General of Customs Valuation has raised Customs values for Zirconium Silicate imported from China, Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, Vietnam, Europe and the United States after determining that shipments were being cleared at prices well below international market levels.
In a recent ruling, the directorate said consignments had been released at “significantly lower declared values compared to prevailing international market prices,” despite the raw material — Zircon Sand — commanding a considerably higher value globally. Officials noted that the mismatch between global prices and declared values had resulted in substantial losses to the national exchequer.
Customs data shows declared prices for Zircon Sand from China ranging between USD 0.35 and 1.75 per kg, from Indonesia at USD 2.00 per kg, from Malaysia between USD 1.10 and 2.15 per kg, and from Europe between USD 1.99 and 2.20 per kg. By contrast, the current international prices for material of Chinese and European origin range from USD 1.70 to 1.82 per kg, far above many values reported by importers.
The directorate said the undervaluation pattern necessitated issuing a new Valuation Ruling under Section 25A of the Customs Act, 1969 to “safeguard government revenue and ensure uniformity in assessment.” Notices have been sent to relevant stakeholders seeking their input and documentary evidence for the determination of revised Customs values.
Zirconium Silicate is widely used in industrial applications — primarily as an opacifier in ceramics, glazes and enamels — and also as a significant component in refractory materials. Its hardness and abrasion resistance make it essential for milling and grinding media, increasing the importance of accurate valuation for downstream industries.
