Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, while presenting the Union Budget 2026-27 in Parliament, announced comprehensive customs reforms to simplify trade and enhance efficiency.
She said the government will introduce a Customs Integrated System (CIS) within two years, creating a single, scalable platform for all customs operations.
The minister outlined plans to expand non-intrusive scanning across major ports using advanced imaging and AI-based risk assessment.
This phased implementation aims to scan every container for faster and safer inspections.
She said that the government will streamline approvals from multiple agencies for cargo clearance through a single, interconnected digital window by the end of the financial year.
The system will operationalise clearances for food, drugs, and plant, animal, and wildlife products, currently accounting for nearly 70 per cent of intercepted cargo, by April 2026.
Sitharaman said that customs will immediately clear goods that have no compliance requirements.
Customs will clear the goods once the importer completes online registration and pays the duties.
The Finance Minister announced measures to help Indian fishermen maximise economic returns from marine resources beyond territorial waters.
The government will allow duty-free imports of fish caught in the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) or High Seas. Fish landed in foreign ports will count as exports.
Safeguards will prevent misuse during capture, transit, or transhipment.
The government will remove the current Rs 10 lakh per consignment cap on courier exports. This will help small businesses, artisans, and startups access global markets.
She also highlighted technology-driven improvements in handling rejected and returned consignments.
On tax compliance, Sitharaman addressed honest taxpayers deterred by penalties. They can now resolve disputes by paying an additional sum instead of penalties, making the process fairer and encouraging the timely settlement of dues.
The government has introduced these reforms to modernise India’s customs ecosystem and boost trade efficiency.
They also aim to expand global market access for small enterprises and ensure transparent, streamlined operations.
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