India, Nepal agree on joint steps to check cross-border smuggling of gold, narcotics, fake currency

IANS April 13, 2025 139 views

India and Nepal have recently concluded high-level customs talks aimed at addressing cross-border smuggling challenges. The bilateral meeting, held in Kathmandu, focused on developing collaborative strategies to prevent unauthorized trade of sensitive goods like gold, narcotics, and counterfeit currency. Both nations recognized the importance of intelligence sharing and technological innovations in combating smuggling activities. The talks underscore the strong diplomatic and economic ties between the two neighboring countries, with India being Nepal's largest trade partner.

"Both sides emphasised on collaborating in areas that can enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of trade and customs operations" - Joint Statement
New Delhi, April 13: India and Nepal have decided to strengthen measures to check cross-border smuggling of gold, narcotics, fake currency notes and other goods such as e-cigarettes, according to a statement issued by the Finance Ministry on Sunday.

Key Points

1

India and Nepal hold crucial customs-level talks to prevent cross-border smuggling

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Bilateral meeting focuses on intelligence exchange and trade facilitation

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Comprehensive approach targets gold, narcotics, and fake currency smuggling

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Neighborhood First Policy strengthens bilateral customs cooperation

The issue was discussed at the 21st Director-General level talks on Customs Cooperation held between the two countries in Kathmandu on April 10-11. The Indian delegation was led by Abhai Kumar Srivastav, Director-General, Directorate of Revenue Intelligence, Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs, Department of Revenue, while the Nepali delegation was led by Mahesh Bhattarai, Director-General, Department of Customs, Nepal.

It was acknowledged that smuggling of goods has been a common challenge, and both sides looked forward towards cooperation in preventing smuggling across the borders with active engagement and exchange of intelligence. Both nations agreed to take necessary measures to control the unauthorised trade and work in tandem.

Nepal is a priority partner of India under its 'Neighbourhood First' Policy. India accounts for two-thirds of Nepal's exports and is the largest trade partner of Nepal. The bilateral talks on Customs cooperation are an important mechanism to facilitate genuine trade as well as to prevent illicit trade along the border in an interconnected world.

The meeting also reviewed progress on MoU on Pre-arrival Exchange of Customs Data and Electronic Origin Data Exchange System (EODES); finalisation of Customs Mutual Assistance Agreement (CMAA); facilitation of movement of transit cargo under Electronic Cargo Tracking System (ECTS); automation and digitisation of transit processes; upgradation of border infrastructure; knowledge sharing program and support for capacity development, among others.

Both sides emphasised on collaborating in areas that can enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of trade and customs operations across the border that deliver significant economic benefits to both countries. It was mutually agreed to consider new technologies for facilitating trade and preventing smuggling of goods.

The meeting concluded on an optimistic note. The Nepali side expressed their gratitude to the Government of India, particularly the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC), for knowledge sharing and capacity enhancement programmes for Nepal Customs officials at different levels, the statement added.

Reader Comments

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Priya S.
This is such an important step forward! Smuggling has been hurting both economies for too long. Hope the new tech solutions they're considering will make a real difference. 🇮🇳🤝🇳🇵
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Rajesh K.
While I appreciate the cooperation, I hope they don't make border crossings too complicated for regular travelers and small traders. The focus should be on big smugglers, not ordinary citizens.
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Sunita M.
The narcotics smuggling is especially concerning. Glad to see both countries taking this seriously. Our youth need protection from these dangerous substances.
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Amit P.
The electronic tracking systems sound promising! Technology can be a game-changer in border security. Hope they implement these solutions quickly.
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Binod T.
As someone from the border region, I've seen how smuggling affects local businesses. This cooperation is long overdue. Hope the measures are effective on the ground level too.

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Tags:
India-Nepal Relations Customs Cooperation Cross-Border Smuggling Trade Facilitation Abhai Kumar Srivastav Mahesh Bhattarai
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