MUMBAI: The 23rd Anniversary event of AILBIEA was celebrated in grand style on Friday, November 29th, at the prestigious Regal Ballroom of Hotel Trident, Nariman Point, Mumbai. The atmosphere was set for a compelling and insightful formal function with an encouraging video message from Mr. Sanjay Kumar Agarwal, Chairman of the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC), New Delhi, marking the occasion of the association's 23rd Anniversary.

The proceedings commenced with an in-depth presentation by Mr. G. Chandrashekhar, Former Editor of The Hindu Business Line, who offered a robust analysis of the surge in liquid bulk imports, highlighting key trends and challenges.

In his address, President Mr. Jayyannt Lapsiaa emphasized the urgent need to restore trade facilitation practices that had been in effect from the 1980s until 2016. He called for a comprehensive re-evaluation of the current trade facilitation framework and Trust-Based Assessment, advocating for an approach rooted in integrity, transparency, and professionalism. He further stressed the importance of ethical standards among importers, urging them to adopt best practices that would foster loyalty and maintain high operational standards, rather than resorting to unsustainable practices like continuous rate reductions from vendors, which have caused a decline in industry standards.

Mr. Nadir Godrej, Chairman of Godrej Industries Ltd., captivated the audience with a poignant poem that reflected the current climate within Customs and the Export Import trade sector. His performance, delivered with his signature flair, received thunderous applause for its thoughtful insight and impactful delivery.

Mr. Unmesh S. Wagh, IRS, Chairman of Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA), presented an exciting vision for the upcoming Vadhavan Port in Palghar District, Maharashtra. He highlighted that this port, with a natural draft exceeding 22 meters, is poised to become India’s leading port. With its proposed construction on an artificial island, Vadhavan Port will be the country’s first offshore port and the second mother port after Vizhinjam International Seaport. The estimated Rs. 76,220 crore ($9.1 billion) project will be developed through a public-private partnership, with JNPA holding a 74% stake and the Maharashtra Maritime Board retaining 26%.

Mr. Sushil Kumar Singh, IRSME, Chairman of Deendayal Port Authority and the additional charge holder of Mumbai Port, reiterated his strong commitment to supporting the liquid bulk trade. He invited suggestions from the association's members on optimizing infrastructure and minimizing vessel waiting times. Mr. Singh, a long-standing supporter of AILBIEA, expressed his deep respect for the association, having been associated with it for over two decades.

Mr. Pradeep Shah, Chairman of BASF, conveyed his gratitude for the recognition he received and expressed his willingness to assist AILBIEA in any capacity to further the objectives of the association.
Mr. Sudhir Malhotra, CEO of Aegis Logistics Ltd., one of the largest tank farm operators in the country, reaffirmed his company’s commitment to providing top-tier infrastructure for the liquid bulk trade. He also called for greater facilitation from Port and Customs authorities to ensure seamless cargo evacuation and reduced waiting times.

Mr. P.K. Agrawal, Principal Chief Commissioner of Central GST & Central Excise, Bengaluru, spoke with fervor, assuring the liquid bulk trade members of his continued support in driving trade facilitation measures, even post his impending retirement. He expressed his unwavering dedication to assisting the trade in ensuring the smooth implementation of facilitative measures.

Mr. S.K. Rahaman, Chief Commissioner of CESTAT (Appeal), New Delhi, complimented AILBIEA on its remarkable achievements over the past 23 years. Having been associated with the association since its inception, he lauded its persistent efforts in addressing issues affecting the liquid bulk trade and its considerable growth. Mr. Dushyant Mulani, Chairman of FFFAI, stressed the importance of fostering genuine trade facilitation and ensuring quick, efficient resolution of industry challenges by establishing clear timelines for addressing key issues.

Finally, Mr. Shankar Shinde, Chairman of the International Federation of Custom Brokers’ Associations, praised AILBIEA for its invaluable work and underscored the need for more frequent and meaningful dialogues with Customs and Port authorities to ensure hassle-free operations within the sector.

Mr. Harsh J. Lapsia performed the role as Master of Ceremonies in a very befitting professional manner with calm and poised stature. The event, marked by thoughtful discussions, collaborative spirit, and a shared commitment to improving trade facilitation, was a testament to AILBIEA's unwavering dedication to supporting and advancing the interests of the liquid bulk trade in India.