How is the New ‘SARAL SIMS’ Streamlining Steel Import Registration for MSMEs?
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Synopsis
The newly launched ‘SARAL SIMS’ by the Ministry of Steel promises to revolutionize steel import registration for MSMEs by simplifying the process and enhancing ease of use. This initiative aims to support small importers, ensuring a smoother import experience.
Key Takeaways
- SARAL SIMS simplifies registration for steel imports by MSMEs.
- Importers can declare total intended import quantity.
- Single registration number for multiple consignments.
- Annual cap of 1,000 MT for small imports.
- Registration process for regular SIMS is streamlined.
New Delhi, Nov 20 (NationPress) The Ministry of Steel announced on Thursday the launch of the innovative ‘SARAL SIMS’ process, aimed at facilitating the registration for small importers and those linked to export imports.
This initiative is designed to simplify the mandatory registration under the Steel Import Monitoring System (SIMS) for small consignments related to iron and steel products. It particularly benefits MSMEs and other minor importers, as well as those making imports through the Advance Authorisation, SEZ, and EOU routes for export purposes. The Ministry of Steel has introduced this new registration facility known as ‘SARAL SIMS’ as per their official statement.
Importers can easily access the SARAL SIMS tool at www.sims.steel.gov.in/SARAL. During the registration process, importers are required to declare only the total quantity they intend to import. Upon registration, they will receive a unique SARAL SIMS number, which allows them to import multiple steel consignments throughout the year without needing individual SIMS numbers for each consignment.
The SARAL SIMS facility covers imports of small consignments (up to 10 MT) with an annual limit of 1,000 MT (referred to as ‘SARAL SIMS for small import’) or imports under the Advance Authorization, SEZ, and EOU routes for export purposes without any specific quantity limit.
Starting from November 21, the new guidelines require importers to submit annual returns detailing actual imports made under SARAL SIMS by April 30 of the following financial year.
Importers can continue to use the SARAL SIMS registration until April 30 of the next financial year for imports made in the current financial year.
If they surpass the 1,000 MT threshold of actual imports under SARAL SIMS within a financial year, they will need to obtain regular SIMS registration for any further imports during that financial year. However, upon switching to regular SIMS, they will lose access to the SARAL SIMS facility for that year, as stated by the Ministry.
For the current financial year 2025-26, the limit for SARAL SIMS small imports stands at 500 MT until April 2026, after which an annual cap of 1,000 MT will be reinstated.
The registration process for regular SIMS has also been notably simplified, reducing the number of required fields from 56 to just 20. These changes are aimed at enhancing the registration experience for importers and boosting the overall ease of doing business.
Additionally, the need for a clarification/NOC from the Ministry of Steel for grades not covered by QCO has been eliminated. Therefore, importers can now generate SIMS numbers for non-QCO covered steel grades directly from the SIMS portal without needing any prior approvals from the Ministry.
Point of View
I recognize the significance of the Ministry of Steel's introduction of ‘SARAL SIMS’. This initiative demonstrates a commitment to facilitate the operations of MSMEs, which are vital for our economy. By reducing bureaucratic hurdles, the government is fostering a more conducive environment for businesses and supporting the growth of the steel industry.
NationPress
20/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is SARAL SIMS?
SARAL SIMS is a new registration process introduced by the Ministry of Steel to simplify steel import registration for MSMEs and small importers.
How can importers access SARAL SIMS?
Importers can access the SARAL SIMS facility at www.sims.steel.gov.in/SARAL.
What are the benefits of using SARAL SIMS?
SARAL SIMS allows importers to declare only the total intended quantity and obtain a unique number for multiple consignments, simplifying the import process.
What is the annual cap for small imports under SARAL SIMS?
The annual limit for small imports under SARAL SIMS is set at 1,000 MT.
When do the new norms for SARAL SIMS take effect?
The new norms will take effect starting November 21, 2023.
