Courier Value Limits Lifted
Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) has announced major trade reforms set to take effect on April 1, 2026, aimed at significantly boosting e-commerce exports. A key part of this initiative is the elimination of the ₹10 lakh cap on courier export consignments. This move allows exporters, especially small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), startups, and artisans, to send higher-value goods through courier services. This bypasses the need for more complex air or sea cargo arrangements, offering greater operational flexibility and simpler logistics.
Streamlined Returns and Re-Imports
Further procedural improvements include a simplified process for Return to Origin (RTO) for imported goods. Uncleared imports stuck at courier terminals for over 15 days can now be quickly sent back to their origin country. This is expected to ease congestion at terminals and improve logistics efficiency. The process for re-importing goods returned by overseas buyers or rejected shipments has also been simplified, providing relief to exporters facing these situations.
Risk-Based Verification Introduced
Instead of checking every consignment, the CBIC is implementing risk-based checks. Inspections will now focus on shipments identified through risk parameters, designed to speed up clearance for most legitimate goods. A dedicated module within the Express Cargo Clearance System has been created to manage returned and rejected shipments more effectively.
Enhancing Export Competitiveness
These reforms are part of the government's broader strategy to grow e-commerce exports and improve India's global ease of doing business ranking. By removing procedural hurdles and simplifying compliance, the new rules are anticipated to reduce turnaround times, cut costs, and make Indian exporters more competitive in the international market.