EICI urges smooth ECCS integration into CIS to boost MSME growth and secure India’s $30 trillion economic vision.
In a major move to strengthen India’s logistics ecosystem and global trade competitiveness, the Express Industry Council of India (EICI), in collaboration with the Bureau of Research on Industry and Economic Fundamentals (BRIEF), has unveiled a comprehensive white paper titled “The Future of Express Cargo Clearance in India – ECCS in the New Customs Integrated System.”
The document emphasises preserving the strengths of the Express Cargo Clearance System (ECCS) as it is merged into the upcoming Customs Integrated System (CIS). The paper, formally submitted to CBIC at a high-level consultation in New Delhi attended by senior officials and industry leaders, aims to streamline cargo clearances, reduce redundancies, and uphold operational agility.
With the express delivery services (EDS) sector valued at over INR 700 billion and employing 30+ lakh people, its growth is critical to MSMEs and India’s goal of becoming a $30 trillion economy by 2047 under the Viksit Bharat mission.
Key recommendations include:
- A standalone express clearance module within CIS aligned with WCO guidelines
- Modular architecture to isolate system risks across cargo modes
- Real-time tracking, bulk filing, auto – OOC/LEO integration
- API-enabled systems for scalability and adaptability
- System-driven examinations and a dedicated express help desk
EICI CEO Vijay Kumar stressed the vital role of the express industry in boosting e-commerce and global trade efficiency. Echoing this, BRIEF Director Afaq Hussain highlighted the importance of continued stakeholder collaboration.
The 2017 ECCS success story is a testament to consultative governance. As India advances towards CIS, maintaining the speed and efficiency of express cargo processes will be crucial for future-ready logistics and uninterrupted global trade flows.
Source: Press release
