Russia and India Sign Protocol for Pre Arrival Customs Information Exchange

The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) Chairman Shri Vivek Chaturvedi and Deputy Head of the Federal Customs Service (FCS) of Russia Tatiana Merkushova signed the protocol in New Delhi, marking a key milestone in bilateral trade cooperation. This agreement enables both countries’ customs authorities to exchange pre arrival data on consignments and vehicles before they reach the border, allowing risk assessment and quicker clearance procedures. It is expected to enhance transparency, streamline border processes, reduce delays, and strengthen supply chain security.

Pre arrival information exchange is a globally recognised trade facilitation tool that allows customs agencies to begin processing and risk profiling shipments before they physically arrive at the point of entry. By doing so, authorities can better manage resources, reduce congestion at borders, and address compliance issues earlier in the logistics chain. This helps exporters and importers by shortening clearance timelines and lowering transaction costs. The signing took place during the 23rd India Russia Summit, where both sides underscored the importance of expanding economic ties across multiple sectors, including energy, defence, infrastructure, and logistics, as part of broader strategic cooperation. India and Russia relations have been strengthening, with trade and investment dialogues emphasising enhanced connectivity and policy alignment to support bilateral commerce.

Enhanced customs cooperation builds on this momentum by directly addressing operational challenges in cross-border trade flows, reflecting both nations’ commitment to facilitating smoother and more predictable logistics frameworks as part of long-term economic engagement.