Nepal-India Customs Meeting: Trade Facilitation Agreements
12th April 2025, Kathmandu
The 21st Director General-level meeting between the Nepal and India customs administrations concluded in Kathmandu on April 10–11, 2025 (28–29 Chaitra 2081).
Nepal-India Customs Meeting
This high-level dialogue, held alternately in Nepal and India since 1995, focused on enhancing trade facilitation, reducing logistics costs, and curbing unauthorized trade.
Key Highlights of the Nepal-India Customs Meeting
1. Trade Facilitation & Digital Customs
Paperless customs procedures to streamline cross-border trade.
India’s recognition of Certificates of Origin issued through Nepal’s National Single Window system, speeding up clearance.
Exchange of pre-arrival import/export data to reduce delays at border checkpoints.
2. Infrastructure & Logistics Improvements
Expansion of Electronic Cargo Tracking System (ECTS) from rail to road transport (trucks) to cut logistics costs.
Fast-tracking Integrated Check Posts (ICPs) at Bhairahawa and Chandani-Dodhara for smoother trade.
Launch of rail cargo services in Biratnagar to boost connectivity.
3. Strengthening Border Controls & Cooperation
Enhanced collaboration to curb unauthorized trade between the two nations.
Development of quarantine facilities at Nepal-India borders for safer agricultural trade.
Progress on a bilateral customs agreement for long-term cooperation.
Who Attended the Meeting?
Nepal’s delegation was led by Mr. Mahesh Bhattarai, Director General of the Department of Customs, with officials from:
Ministry of Finance
Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Ministry of Industry, Commerce & Supplies
Food Technology & Quality Control Department
Plant Quarantine & Pesticide Management Center
India’s delegation was headed by Mr. Abhay Kumar Srivastava, Director General of Revenue Intelligence, along with:
Indian Customs officials
Representatives from the Indian Embassy in Kathmandu
Trade-related agencies
What’s Next?
The 22nd Nepal-India Customs Meeting will be held in New Delhi, continuing efforts to strengthen trade relations and cross-border cooperation.
Why Does This Meeting Matter?
Faster trade clearance = Lower business costs
Better infrastructure = Smuggling control & efficient logistics
Stronger Nepal-India economic ties = Growth in bilateral trade
Stay updated on Nepal-India trade policies and customs developments!
For more: Nepal-India Customs Meeting
