JNPA announces 50% Ground Rent Waiver for Import-Laden Containers to Support Trade and Ease Congestion
NAVI MUMBAI: In a significant relief measure for the trade and logistics community, the Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA) has announced a 50% reimbursement of ground rent on import-laden containers that have incurred ground rent beyond eight days of dwell time at port terminals.
The decision comes in response to the challenges faced during April–May 2026 due to a shortage of trailer drivers, which impacted the timely evacuation of import containers from terminals. The disruption resulted in inventory build-up and extended container dwell times across the port ecosystem.
Recognizing the hardship experienced by importers, JNPA has approved a special relief package aimed at reducing the financial burden on the trade while facilitating the clearance of accumulated cargo.
Key Highlights of the Relief Measure
- Relief Offered: 50% reimbursement of ground rent paid from the 9th day of landing onwards.
- Eligible Containers: Import-laden containers destined for Container Freight Stations (CFSs) or moved under the Direct Port Delivery (DPD) scheme by road, unloaded from vessels on or after 01 May 2026.
- Condition for Eligibility: Containers must be evacuated from the terminal on or before 20 June 2026 (2400 hrs).
- Non-Eligible Containers: Containers landed after 12 June 2026 (2400 hrs) will not qualify for the waiver.
Claim Process
Importers seeking reimbursement are required to submit:
- Ground rent payment invoices,
- Container identification details,
- Copy of the Delivery Order (DO), and
- Bank account details
to the office of the General Manager (Finance), JNPA.
Upon verification of eligibility, JNPA will reimburse 50% of the ground rent accrued from the 9th day of landing until the date of container removal, directly to the importer.
The Trade Notice has been issued with the approval of the Competent Authority of JNPA and is expected to provide immediate support to importers while encouraging the swift evacuation of cargo from port terminals.
The initiative reflects JNPA’s proactive approach towards facilitating trade, improving cargo flow efficiency, and supporting stakeholders during operational disruptions affecting the logistics supply chain.
