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Key Points

India and Bhutan have reaffirmed their strong economic partnership through a crucial customs cooperation meeting in Thimphu. The sixth Joint Group of Customs discussion focused on enhancing trade facilitation and border management techniques. Both nations explored digital transformation of transit processes and proposed capacity-building programs for customs operations. This strategic dialogue underscores the deep economic ties between the two neighboring countries.

Key Points: India Bhutan Customs Talks Boost Trade Cooperation

  • India remains Bhutan's primary trade partner accounting for 80% trade
  • Discussed digital transit processes and border management
  • Proposed capacity building programs for customs operations
  • Explored electronic cargo tracking system improvements
2 min read

India, Bhutan reaffirm commitment to boost customs cooperation, trade

India and Bhutan strengthen trade ties through comprehensive customs cooperation meeting, enhancing border management and bilateral economic relations

"Our continued collaboration ensures seamless and efficient cross-border trade - Surjit Bhujabal, CBIC Special Secretary"

New Delhi, April 28

India and Bhutan have reaffirmed their shared commitment to strengthening customs cooperation, enhancing trade facilitation and ensuring secure and efficient border management, it was announced on Monday.

This was conveyed at the sixth Joint Group of Customs (JGC) meeting between India and Bhutan was in Thimphu.

India is Bhutan's top trade partner -- both as an import source and as an export destination -- accounting for about 80 per cent of Bhutan's overall trade.

The meeting discussed a host of bilateral issues for enhancing trade and transit between the two countries.

The automation and digitisation of transit processes, Coordinated Border Management (CBM), pre-arrival exchange of Customs data, Customs Mutual Assistance Agreement (CMAA) and movement of transit cargo under Electronic Cargo Tracking System (ECTS) were discussed, among others, according to a statement by the Ministry of Finance.

Bhutanese side extended their sincere thanks to the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) for their continued support.

India proposed extending capacity building programmes in the areas of Risk Management System (RMS), Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) and Food Safety Standards, besides need-based capacity building for importers and exporters from the Bhutanese side, said the Finance Ministry.

The meeting was co-chaired by Surjit Bhujabal, Special Secretary and Member (Customs), CBIC, and Sonam Jamtsho, Director General, Department of Revenue and Customs, Ministry of Finance, Bhutan.

Trade with Bhutan through the land Customs Stations is significant as Bhutan is a land-locked country.

The India-Bhutan Joint Group of Customs meetings are held annually to discuss issues relating to re-defining and re-engineering of Customs procedures, promote Customs cooperation and Cross-border trade facilitation with alignment to global best practices.

There are 10 Land Customs Stations along the India-Bhutan Border in the states of West Bengal (6) and Assam (4), according to the government.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

P
Priya K.
This is such positive news! Stronger trade ties between India and Bhutan will benefit both nations. The focus on digital processes is especially welcome in today's world. 🇮🇳🤝🇧🇹
R
Rahul S.
While I appreciate the cooperation, I hope they also address the delays at border crossings. My cousin runs an export business and says clearance times could be improved.
T
Tenzin D.
As someone from Bhutan, I'm glad to see our special relationship with India getting stronger. The capacity building programs will really help our local businesses grow.
A
Ananya M.
The electronic cargo tracking system is a game changer! This will make trade more transparent and efficient. Kudos to both governments for working together on these initiatives.
K
Karma T.
Hope this leads to more Bhutanese products in Indian markets. Our organic products and handicrafts deserve wider recognition!
S
Sunil P.
The 80% trade statistic is impressive but also makes me wonder - shouldn't Bhutan diversify its trade partners more? Just a thought from an economics perspective.

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