Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, during the Budget 2026-27 presentation in Parliament, revealed plans for a Customs Integrated System (CIS) to be launched within two years. This system aims to streamline customs processes onto a single, integrated, and scalable platform. Utilizing non-intrusive scanning with advanced imaging and AI technology for risk assessment will also be expanded gradually to scan every container at major ports.
Approvals necessary for cargo clearance from various government bodies will soon be seamlessly processed through a unified digital window by the end of the financial year. Processes related to the clearance of food, drugs, plant, animal, and wildlife products, accounting for 70% of interdicted cargo, will be operational on this system by April 2026. Goods without compliance requirements will be cleared by Customs immediately after online registration by the importer, upon duty payment.
In a bid to support Indian fishermen in maximizing the economic value of marine resources beyond territorial waters, the Finance Minister announced measures such as duty-free treatment for fish caught by Indian vessels in the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) or on the High Seas. However, landing such fish in foreign ports will be considered as an export. Safeguards will also be implemented to prevent misuse during fish catch, transit, and transhipment.
The Finance Minister also disclosed the elimination of the current value cap of Rs 10 lakh per consignment on courier exports to facilitate Indian small businesses, artisans, and start-ups in accessing global markets through e-commerce. Additionally, the handling of rejected and returned consignments will be enhanced through technology for efficient identification. Furthermore, honest taxpayers willing to settle disputes by paying their dues can now close cases by paying an additional amount instead of a penalty.
