Industry and Experts Advocate Customs Duty Reforms to Facilitate Trade and Boost Exports

Industry and think tanks in India are calling for a comprehensive overhaul of the customs duty structure to simplify trade and boost export competitiveness. Key proposals include rationalizing duty rates, pruning slabs, implementing a single-window clearance system, digitizing dispute resolution, and setting clear timelines for certifications like the Authorised Economic Operator scheme. Experts also recommend reducing tariffs on raw materials, eliminating inverted duty structures, and addressing cumulative duties to lower trade costs and enhance manufacturing efficiency.