CBIC will launch Online Customs Refund System in a Month to Facilitate Trade

The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) plans to launch an online system for customs refunds within the next month, marking a significant step towards complete digitization of customs processes in India.

CBIC Chairman Sanjay Agarwal stated in an interview that while most customs procedures have already been shifted to digital platforms, refund processing remains manual. His words were, “The process of refund is not digital, I think, but we are going to launch this online filing of refunds very soon, maybe within a month’s time.”

This action is part of CBIC’s ongoing efforts to improve efficiency, transparency, and ease of doing business for both importers and exporters. Previously, the board implemented the ‘Turant Customs’ initiative, which aimed at faceless, contactless, and paperless clearance of goods. One of its key elements, faceless assessment, became applicable to all imports in India from October 31, 2020. This reform dramatically shortened clearance time while ensuring assessment consistency.

CBIC has also automated certain customs functions. On July 4, it introduced the Exchange Rate Automation Module (ERAM), an automated system for issuing currency exchange rates that will further streamline trade processes.

Benefits of the Digital Customs Refund System

Following are the benefits of upcoming digital refund mechanism:

• Businesses benefit from faster refund processing, which reduces delays.
• Reduced paperwork, making compliance easier.
• Reduce the likelihood of errors and disputes, assuring seamless processing.
• Traders benefit from faster access to funds, which increases liquidity.

By removing inefficiencies, the system will allow for smoother trade, bolstering India’s position as a global trading hub.