India has been ranked 63rd in the Ease of Doing Business Index by the World Bank, an improvement of 14 places from the previous year. However, despite this improvement, there are still several bureaucratic hurdles that need to be addressed, particularly in the context of export-import:

1. Simplification of export-import procedures:

The Indian government has taken several steps to simplify export-import procedures. The government has introduced the Indian Customs Single Window System (ICSW) to provide a single point of contact for all import-export-related clearances. The ICSW enables the electronic submission of documents and facilitates a faster and paperless clearance process. The government has also reduced the number of mandatory documents required for export-import, from 10 to 3, to streamline the process and reduce the time taken for clearance.

2. Digitization of export-import processes:

The government has undertaken a massive digitization drive to streamline export-import processes. The government has introduced the Electronic Negotiable Warehouse Receipt (e-NWR) system to facilitate the financing of agricultural produce through digital warehouse receipts. The government has also launched the Trade Infrastructure for Export Scheme (TIES) to support infrastructure development at ports, airports, and border points.

3. Reduction in customs duty:

The government has reduced customs duty on several products to promote exports. The government has also introduced the Remission of Duties and Taxes on Exported Products (RoDTEP) scheme to reimburse all taxes and duties paid by exporters, which will make Indian products more competitive in the global market.

4. Faster clearance at ports:

The government has taken several steps to speed up clearance at ports. The government has launched the Port Community System (PCS) to integrate all stakeholders in the port ecosystem and enable the seamless movement of cargo. The government has also launched the Direct Port Delivery (DPD) scheme to allow importers to take delivery of their goods directly from the port, reducing the time taken for clearance.

5. Simplification of compliance requirements:

The government has simplified compliance requirements for exporters and importers. The government has launched the Self-Assessment Scheme for Customs, which allows importers and exporters to self-assess their duty liabilities, reducing the time and cost of compliance. The government has also introduced the Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) program to provide a simplified and streamlined customs clearance process for compliant traders.

The Indian government has taken several steps to remove bureaucratic hurdles in export-import and improve the ease of doing business in the country. The government’s efforts towards simplification, digitization, reduction in customs duty, faster clearance at ports, and simplification of compliance requirements have contributed to making India a more attractive destination for businesses. These measures are expected to boost exports, attract foreign investment, and create more job opportunities in the country.