The Governments of India and Nepal held their 21st Director-General Level Talks on Customs Cooperation in Kathmandu, Nepal, on 10–11 April 2025. The meeting reaffirms India and Nepal's commitment to enhancing efficiency and effectiveness in cross-border trade and customs operations, aiming for significant economic benefits. 

The meeting discussed the following: 

• Review of and progress on
  • Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for pre-arrival exchange of customs data
  • Electronic Origin Data Exchange System (EODES)
  • Finalization of the Customs Mutual Assistance Agreement (CMAA)
• Extension of the Electronic Cargo Tracking System (ECTS) from rail to road transport, affirming both sides’ commitment to facilitate movement of transit cargo by expanding and improving logistics and security.

• Agreement to automate and digitize transit processes, moving towards paperless customs procedures to streamline cross-border trade and reduce logistics costs. 

• Decision to upgrade border infrastructure, including the fast-tracking of Integrated Check Posts (ICPs) at Bhairahawa and Chandani-Dodhara, and operationalizing rail cargo services at Biratnagar. 

• India agreed to recognize Certificates of Origin issued through Nepal’s National Single Window system, expediting trade clearance.

• Both sides agreed to expand quarantine facilities at the border to support safer agricultural trade 

• Emphasis on knowledge sharing and support for capacity development, with Nepal expressing gratitude for India’s ongoing training and capacity-building programs for Nepalese customs officials. 

• Combating smuggling, trans-border crime, and the circulation of fake currency, with a focus on gold, narcotics, and prohibited/restricted goods (such as e-cigarettes, e-lighters, and specific agricultural products).  

• The meeting agreed to consider and implement new technologies to facilitate legitimate trade and prevent illicit activities.

The meeting concluded on a positive note, with both sides committed to continued dialogue and cooperation. 

Related links

News Release 

Nepal-India Customs Meeting: Trade Facilitation Agreements 

India, Nepal hold 21st director-general level talks on customs cooperation 

India agrees to recognize certificates of origin issued by Nepal