Mumbai : 14 May 2026

The Directorate General of Taxpayer Services, Mumbai Zonal Unit (DGTS, MZU), in association with the Directorate General of Systems, Western Zonal Unit (DGS, WZU), organised a Seminar-cum-Webinar in hybrid mode on the topic “Decoding Automation of SEZ Clearances through Courier Mode” on 14 May 2026 at the Conference Hall, New Custom House, Ballard Estate, Mumbai.

The event focused on reforms relating to automation of import and export clearances through courier mode. The automation framework is expected to facilitate faster shipment clearances, reduce manual documentation and dwell time, improve real-time visibility, minimise errors and strengthen trade facilitation. The initiative is also expected to support cross-border e-commerce and B2C exports across sectors such as electronics, semiconductors, machinery, automobile components, textiles, pharmaceuticals and other technology-driven industries.

Shri Sumit Kumar, Principal Additional Director General, DGTS, MZU, delivered the welcome address and highlighted the role of DGTS in taxpayer outreach, stakeholder engagement and dissemination of knowledge relating to indirect taxation and Customs procedures. He stated that the automation initiative introduced through advisories issued by the Directorate General of Systems on 29 and 30 April 2026 marks a significant step towards digital Customs administration aimed at reducing manual intervention, enhancing transparency and expediting processing.

Shri Manish Thapliyal, Additional Director General, DGS, WZU, highlighted the importance of automation and digitisation in Customs administration. He stated that the integrated ECCS–ICEGATE–ICES framework would improve efficiency, transparency and ease of doing business in SEZ courier clearances while enabling seamless coordination among stakeholders.

Detailed presentations on operational workflows and procedural requirements relating to automated SEZ import and export clearances through courier mode were delivered by Shri Abhijit Thorat, Joint Director, DGS, WZU, and Shri Anshuman Tripathi, Deputy Director, DGS, WZU.

Shri Vasudevan Rajagopalan (Vasu), Head – Regulatory Affairs, India, DHL Express, also shared insights on trade facilitation, logistics operations and the role of automation in enhancing operational efficiency and international trade competitiveness.

PIB Mumbai | Saurabh Khekde/Priti Malandkar

 

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