Single-window facility to streamline customs processes, expedite clearances and strengthen SEEPZ-SEZ as a leading export hub
FinTech BizNews Service
Mumbai, 19 June 2026: Union Minister of State for Commerce & Industry and Electronics & Information Technology, Jitin Prasada, today inaugurated the state-of-the-art Customs Export–Import Facilitation Centre at SDF VIII, SEEPZ-SEZ, Mumbai, marking a significant milestone in strengthening trade facilitation and export infrastructure within one of India’s premier Special Economic Zones.
The newly inaugurated Customs Export–Import Facilitation Centre has been developed as a modern single-window facility that integrates key customs processes under one roof. It is equipped with dedicated infrastructure for customs examination, secure handling of high-value consignments and specialised support for e-commerce operations. The facility is expected to significantly enhance operational efficiency, expedite customs clearances, improve stakeholder services and reinforce SEEPZ-SEZ’s position as a leading export hub.
Addressing the gathering, the minister Prasada said that the newly inaugurated facility reflects the Government’s commitment to modernising trade infrastructure and advancing the vision of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi to create globally competitive export ecosystems. He observed that in a rapidly evolving global economy, reform and transformation must go hand in hand, and that world-class infrastructure is essential to sustain India’s export growth.
The Minister emphasised that time is money for exporters, particularly for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), which often lack dedicated resources for logistics and compliance. He noted that the new Customs Facilitation Centre would simplify procedures, reduce transaction time and provide seamless customs services under one roof, thereby enhancing the ease of doing business and enabling exporters to focus on growth and competitiveness.
The Minister stressed that “Quality, Quality and Quality” must remain the guiding principle for Indian industry. He urged exporters to maintain the highest international standards and assured them of the Government’s support in strengthening testing infrastructure and quality assurance systems so that products carrying the Brand India label continue to earn global trust.
Referring to India’s expanding network of Free Trade Agreements (FTAs), Shri Prasada said these initiatives are opening new markets and creating unprecedented opportunities for Indian exporters, especially MSMEs. He added that digital governance, single-window systems and compliance reforms are making trade processes more transparent, efficient and business-friendly, while strengthening India’s position in global value chains.
Speaking on the occasion, Kirti Bhansali, Chairman, GJEPC, thanked the Government of India for its continued support to the gems and jewellery sector and its sustained efforts to strengthen the country’s export ecosystem. He informed that the SEEPZ export estate recorded exports of approximately ₹38,000 crore during the year, registering around 5 per cent growth despite industry challenges.
He also welcomed the Government’s approval for FTWZ broadbanding, noting that the measure would encourage greater international participation and create new business opportunities for exporters. Appreciating the decision to allow GJEPC RCMC holders to import gold and silver through the India International Bullion Exchange (IIBX), he said the initiative would improve access to raw materials and facilitate export growth.
Commending the Government’s proactive trade policies and landmark FTAs, particularly with the United Arab Emirates and Australia, Bhansali observed that these agreements have expanded market access and unlocked fresh opportunities for Indian exporters. Reaffirming the industry’s commitment to the vision of Viksit Bharat, he said the gems and jewellery sector is working towards an ambitious target of achieving USD 200 billion in exports by 2047.
The inauguration underscores the Government of India’s continued commitment to creating world-class trade infrastructure, reducing compliance burdens and fostering a robust, technology-driven export ecosystem that supports businesses of all sizes and contributes to the goal of making India a developed nation by 2047.
