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2016 (2) TMI 222 - AT - Service TaxCargo Handling Services - handling of export cargo as part of Stevedoring services - transportation of goods through barges (sea) - whether the Appellant is liable to pay the Service Tax on Lighterage & Stevedoring services rendered by them in relation to vessel or goods at the Magdalla/Hazira port under Port Services as defined under Section 65(82) of the Finance Act, 1994. Held that:- The Appellant contended that the charges were fixed in the contract entered by way of negotiations. It is clear from the contract between the Appellant and M/s Essar Steel that it is an independent contract. In any event, the intimation given by the Appellant to GMB of the contract between them and M/s Essar Steels, cannot be treated as authorization by the port. - After considering the above decisions and the provisions of Finance Act, 1994, in our considered view, the facts in the case of Kandla Shipchandlers and Ship Repairers Association [2012 (9) TMI 850 - Gujarat High Court] would not be applicable in the present case, as there was no authorization issued by the GMB to the appellant and the demand of service tax on Stevedoring and Lighterage charges, under port service, on the appellant, prior to 01.7.2010, cannot be sustained. The question of demand of Service Tax on barge charges and the handling charges connected therewith would not arise at all with effect from 10-10-2007 as they form an integral part of the transaction value for levy of customs duty. Even for the period prior 10-10-2007, the same position would apply for the reason that the import transaction is complete only when the goods reach the customs barriers and the bill of entry for home consumption is filed. The demand of Service Tax alongwith interest on Lighterage and Stevedoring services rendered by the Appellant in relation to vessel or goods at the Magdalla/Hazira Port under 'Port services' would be upheld from 01.07.2010 and the extended period of limitation cannot be invoked. The demand of tax alongwith interest prior to 01.07.2010 and penalties are set aside. - Decided partly in favor of assessee.
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