Ministry of Steel • DGFT

Steel Import Monitoring System (SIMS)

Smart Import Registration & Monitoring System for Steel Products in India

Introduction

India has emerged as a global leader in the steel industry and is currently the second-largest steel producer in the world. To ensure transparency and regulate steel imports, the Government of India introduced the Steel Import Monitoring System (SIMS).

Standardization & Quality Control

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) is India’s national standards body responsible for enforcing Indian Standards. Under Section 16 of the BIS Act, 2016, the use of ISI marks is mandatory for notified steel products.

Purpose of SIMS

  • Advance information on steel imports
  • Live statistical import database
  • Improved transparency in trade
  • Access to import data for stakeholders

Eligibility for SIMS Registration

SIMS registration is mandatory for imports falling under 284 steel tariff lines with 8-digit HS codes. Importers must select the applicable HS code from the dropdown available on the SIMS portal while filing the application.

Why SIMS is Required

  • Prevent dumping of steel products
  • Control under-invoicing
  • Protect domestic steel manufacturers
  • Maintain import records

Data-Driven Decision Making

SIMS enables the Government of India to make informed policy decisions regarding tariffs, quotas, safeguards and other steel trade regulations using real-time import data.

SIMS Registration Fees

  • ₹1 per ₹1,000 of CIF value
  • Minimum fee: ₹500
  • Maximum fee: ₹1,00,000
  • Payment via online electronic mode

Validity of SIMS Certificate

  • Valid for 75 days
  • Apply 15–60 days before expected arrival
  • Required before filing Bill of Entry

Documents Required

  • Import Export Code (IEC)
  • Business proof
  • Digital Signature Certificate
  • HSN Code
  • Invoice & Bill of Lading

SIMS Registration Process

  1. Create SIMS portal account
  2. Enter product & import details
  3. Submit value, quantity & origin

Conclusion

SIMS plays a crucial role in ensuring transparency, protecting domestic industries, simplifying customs clearance, and strengthening the overall stability of India’s steel sector.

SIMS – Frequently Asked Questions

Answers to common questions related to Steel Import Monitoring System (SIMS)

SIMS stands for Steel Import Monitoring System. It was introduced by the Ministry of Commerce & Industry and the Ministry of Steel to provide advance information on steel imports and maintain a real-time import database.

Yes. SIMS registration is mandatory for all importers importing steel products covered under notified 8-digit HS codes listed by the Government of India.

Yes. A SIMS registration is required for each import shipment before filing the Bill of Entry with customs.

The registration fee is ₹1 per ₹1,000 of CIF value, subject to a minimum of ₹500 and a maximum of ₹1,00,000 per application.

A SIMS license is valid for 75 days and must be obtained between 15 to 60 days prior to the expected arrival of goods.

Yes. Importers must create an account on the SIMS portal using their IEC and registered contact details.

Required documents include IEC, business proof, Digital Signature Certificate, HSN code, invoice copy, and bill of lading.

Yes, a single application can cover multiple products provided they fall under eligible HS codes and are part of the same shipment.