Customs duty is an indirect tax applied to imported and exported goods, aimed at generating revenue and protecting domestic industries. In India, the Customs Act of 1962 governs customs duties, which can vary based on factors like location, weight, and type of goods, with several specific types of duties, including basic customs duty, anti-dumping duty, and national calamity contingent duty. Businesses must comply with customs regulations and pay the applicable duties to facilitate their import-export activities.