Centre sets up Global Tariff and Trade Helpdesk to assist exporters, importers

IANS April 11, 2025 169 views

The Indian government has established a comprehensive Global Tariff and Trade Helpdesk to assist exporters and importers in managing complex international trade challenges. This new initiative allows trade stakeholders to submit issues related to import surges, regulatory compliance, and supply chain disruptions through the DGFT website. Exporters and importers can track their submitted concerns and receive updates via email and SMS. The helpdesk represents a proactive approach to supporting India's international trade ecosystem during rapidly evolving global economic conditions.

"The Global Tariff and Trade Helpdesk will collect and coordinate trade-related issues across government platforms" - Department of Commerce Official
New Delhi, April 11: The Centre has operationalised a dedicated ‘Global Tariff and Trade Helpdesk’ to assist the country’s exporters and importers in navigating emerging trade issues due to the hike in tariffs announced by the US.

Key Points

1

New helpdesk tracks global tariff changes and trade dynamics

2

Exporters can submit challenges through DGFT website

3

Support mechanism covers import, export, and regulatory issues

4

Aims to provide resolution for trade community

The Department of Commerce and DGFT are actively tracking developments in global trade, particularly in relation to tariff changes, import surges, and export-related challenges, according to an official statement issued on Friday.

Given the evolving trade landscape and the introduction of various tariff and counter-tariff measures, there may be both new export opportunities and heightened import pressures from specific countries or product sectors, the statement explained.

Exporters and importers experiencing such shifts have been asked to share their input and suggest potential support measures.

The 'Global Tariff and Trade Helpdesk' would look into issues relating to Import and Export Challenges, Import Surges or Dumping, EXIM Clearance, Logistics or Supply Chain Challenges, Financial or Banking issues, Regulatory or Compliance Issues, and Other Issues or Suggestions.

The help desk would also collect and collate trade-related issues concerning other Ministries/Departments/Agencies of Central Government and State Governments and will co-ordinate to seek their support and provide possible resolution(s).

Export-Import community may submit information on the DGFT website and submit information relating to their issues on which support is required using the following steps:

1. Navigate to the DGFT Website (https://dgft.gov.in) -- - Services -- - DGFT Helpdesk Service

2. Create New Request’ and select the Category as ‘Global Tariff and Trade and Issues’

3. Select the suitable sub-category (Import Challenges, Export Challenges, Import Surges or Dumping, EXIM Clearance, Logistics or Supply Chain Challenges, Regulatory & Compliance Issues, and Other Issues and Suggestions), enter the other relevant details and submit.

Alternatively, issues may be sent to email id: dgftedi[at]nic[dot]in with the subject header: Global Tariff and Trade Helpdesk.

The status of resolutions and feedback may be tracked using the status tracker under the DGFT Helpdesk Services.

Email and SMS would also be sent as and when the status of these tickets are updated.

Trade stakeholders are encouraged to make appropriate use of these support facilities, the statement added.

Reader Comments

R
Rahul K.
This is a much-needed initiative! As a small exporter, navigating tariff changes has been a nightmare. Hope this helpdesk actually delivers quick solutions and not just becomes another bureaucratic layer. 🤞
P
Priya M.
Great step by the government! The email option is especially helpful for those of us not very tech-savvy. Just submitted my query about EU tariff changes - fingers crossed for a helpful response.
A
Amit S.
While I appreciate the effort, I'm skeptical about response times. Government portals often take weeks to reply. They should mention expected turnaround times to set proper expectations.
S
Sunita R.
The SMS update feature is brilliant! So many times we miss emails in the inbox clutter. This could really help small businesses stay on top of their trade issues. 👏
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Vikram J.
I wonder if they'll have specialists for different regions. US tariffs need different expertise than say, African trade policies. The success will depend on having knowledgeable staff.
N
Neha P.
Finally! Our textile exports have been suffering due to sudden tariff hikes. Hope this helpdesk can provide real-time guidance and maybe even negotiate better terms for us.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Tags:
Global Trade DGFT Export Import Tariff Challenges India Trade Policy Department of Commerce
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