In a major push to strengthen its agricultural export capabilities, the Indian government has introduced a series of reforms aimed at simplifying and accelerating the movement of perishable goods, especially fruits and vegetables. These measures are expected to reduce costs, speed up processes, and position India as a stronger player in global agricultural trade.

Major Reforms to Enhance Agricultural Exports

1. Regulatory Reforms by CBIC

The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) has simplified regulations related to air cargo movements. By cutting down bureaucratic hurdles, the CBIC seeks to ensure faster and smoother export procedures for perishable goods.

2. Elimination of Transhipment Fees

As of April 24, 2025, the fee for transhipment permits has been abolished, directly lowering logistics costs and reducing delays associated with freight movement across airports.

3. New Rules for Unit Load Devices (ULDs)

A harmonised process for the temporary import of Unit Load Devices (ULDs) has been introduced. Airlines and logistics service providers can now assume re-export responsibility for ULDs, significantly speeding up handling at air cargo complexes.

4. Adoption of the All-India Transhipment Bond

The government has allowed the use of a single transhipment bond across multiple customs locations, removing the need for exporters and airlines to create separate compliance documentation at every point.

5. Digitisation of Transhipment Processes

The transhipment application and permission processes have been digitised through ICEGATE, India’s electronic customs platform. Exporters can now apply and receive permissions online, eliminating the need for physical visits to customs offices.

Growing Opportunities in the Export Market

India’s fruit and vegetable exports have grown by over 5% to $3.39 billion during the first 11 months of the 2024–25 financial year, reflecting the country’s rising presence in global markets. The reforms are expected to further enhance this trend.

Major products such as grapes, mangoes, and onions continue to be in high demand internationally. Combined with infrastructure improvements like enhanced cold storage facilities and better packaging centers, India is well-positioned to expand its footprint in global agricultural trade.

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Summary of Key Data

Aspect	Details
Reform Authority	Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC)
Key Reform Dates	Transhipment fee abolished on April 24, 2025
Digitisation Platform	ICEGATE (for online transhipment applications)
Impact on Exports	Fruit and vegetable export revenues rose 5% to $3.39 billion (Apr–Feb 2025)
New Process for ULDs	Airlines/logistics agents responsible for ULD re-export
Simplification in Compliance	Single All-India Transhipment Bond adopted
Major Export Products	Grapes, mangoes, onions
Infrastructure Focus	Investment in cold storage, packaging, and logistics
Objective for Exporters	Faster shipments, reduced costs, expanded market reach

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Conclusion

The latest government reforms are a critical step toward making India a global powerhouse in fruit and vegetable exports. With regulatory simplifications, cost reductions, and investments in infrastructure, Indian exporters have a significant opportunity to grow their international footprint. Stakeholders are strongly encouraged to leverage these changes to enhance operational efficiency and maximize their global reach.