New Delhi: To improve bilateral trade and customs cooperation, the governments of India and Bhutan have agreed to establish new land customs stations along the two countries’ borders. This is part of the steps taken to enhance cooperation between the two countries and facilitate cross-border trade, a PIB press release stated.
The Joint Group of Customs (JGC) meeting between the two countries discussed the opening of new land customs stations and the notification of new trade routes. The meeting also discussed the development of infrastructure, automation, and digitization of transit processes. The meeting also discussed the prevention of smuggling and the coordinated cross-border management.
The two governments also agreed to sign a bilateral agreement on customs cooperation. The government of India has clarified that capacity building, training, and skill development training will be provided to the Bhutan customs administration to strengthen the customs cooperation between the two countries.
The Joint Group of Customs (JGC) meetings are held annually to review and revise customs procedures and promote customs cooperation and cross-border trade.
The JGC meeting between India and Bhutan is significant as both the countries are committed to strengthening their bilateral trade and customs cooperation. The new steps taken will benefit both the countries by enhancing connectivity and developing trade infrastructure.