India, Nepal to boost border infra, data sharing to curb smuggling

Recognising that effective border management is important in fight against smuggling, discussions also included upgrade of border infrastructure and automation and digitisation of transit processes

To enhance effectiveness and efficiency of trade and customs operations across the border, Custom authorities of India and Nepal agreed to take necessary measures to check trans-border criminal activities and smuggling of prohibited items, including gold, narcotics and fake currency notes (FCN).

 

Recognising that effective border management is important in the fight against smuggling, discussions also included upgrade of border infrastructure and automation and digitisation of transit processes.

 

The deliberations took place during the 21st Director-General Level Talks on Customs Cooperation held in Kathmandu from April 10-11.

 

The two sides discussed issues related to trans-border criminal activities and smuggling of gold, narcotics and FCN, and prohibited/restricted categories of goods, such as e-cigarettes, e-lighters, and certain varieties of garlic. Other cases of commercial frauds, including sensitive goods, were also deliberated during the meeting. 

 

“It was acknowledged that smuggling of goods has been a common challenge and both sides looked forward towards cooperation in preventing smuggling across the borders with active engagement and exchange of intelligence. Both the nations agreed to take necessary measures to control the unauthorised trade and work in tandem,” a government release said.

 

The agenda covered several key areas, including the review of the Memorandum of Understanding on Pre-arrival Exchange of Customs Data and the Electronic Origin Data Exchange System (EODES). Both sides also discussed the finalisation of the Customs Mutual Assistance Agreement (CMAA) and the facilitation of transit cargo movement under the Electronic Cargo Tracking System (ECTS).

 

The meeting also deliberated on the need for capacity-building programmes for custom officials. The Nepali delegates expressed gratitude for India's continued support in this domain.

 

Nepal is a priority partner of India under its ‘Neighbourhood First’ Policy. India accounts for two-thirds of Nepal’s exports and is the largest trade partner of Nepal.