CBIC Expands Digital Payment Infrastructure for Importers and Exporters

Customs Duty Payment Simplifications Introduced by CBIC

On March 24, the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) enabled payment aggregators to facilitate customs duty payments on the ICEGATE e-Payment platform. This move aims to provide relief to importers and exporters affected by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

The ICEGATE e-Payment platform, which previously allowed for a unified payment mode through authorized banks using NEFT or RTGS, now also accepts payments through UPI, credit card, debit card, and internet banking. This expansion of payment options is expected to reduce delays and improve the user experience on the platform.

Indian Customs Electronic Data Interchange Gateway (ICEGATE) is the national portal of the Customs department, providing e-filing services to trade and cargo carriers. Currently, ICICI, IOB, SBI, and HDFC Bank are onboarded as payment aggregators on ICEGATE. Additional banks will be added once testing is completed.

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The introduction of UPI, debit and credit cards, and a wider net-banking ecosystem for duty payments has significantly broadened accessibility for businesses of all sizes. Experts believe that this change makes the system more inclusive, easier to navigate, and a step forward in enhancing ease of doing business.

The reform simplifies transactions for importers and exporters, reduces hurdles in the clearance process, and brings greater speed and transparency to cash flow management.