India in talks with 30 nations for mutual recognition deals: Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs Chairman Mr. Sanjay Kumar Agarwal

India is advancing trade facilitation by negotiating Mutual Recognition Agreements (MRAs) with customs authorities in around 30 countries, according to Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs Chairman Mr. Sanjay Kumar Agarwal. MRAs reduce compliance costs by eliminating dual certifications, simplifying regulatory requirements, and fostering trade opportunities. India has signed MRAs with key trading partners, including the US, South Korea, UAE, Taiwan, Australia, and Malaysia. It is making significant progress in discussions with Japan and South Africa. These agreements also support expanding the Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) program, which streamlines trade by recognising secure and compliant exporters and importers.

He emphasised India’s commitment to digital and sustainable trade facilitation, as evidenced by its improved rankings in the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia, the Pacific’s Global Survey on Digital and Sustainable Trade Facilitation, and the World Bank’s Logistics Performance Index. Speaking at the Global AEO Conference, he underscored the importance of global cooperation in an interconnected world, with the AEO programme symbolising a strong partnership between customs and businesses to achieve secure and efficient trade.

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