India has introduced a series of customs reforms aimed at simplifying cross-border trade, particularly for e-commerce exporters. Effective 1 April 2026, the government has removed the long-standing ₹10 lakh cap on courier exports, enabling businesses to ship high-value consignments without restriction.
The move, implemented through notifications and a circular issued on 31 March 2026, is designed to reduce operational hurdles and improve the efficiency of global logistics. Alongside this, authorities have streamlined procedures for handling returned and rejected shipments, shifting toward a more flexible, risk-based verification system.
The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC), via its latest circular and notification, has introduced this updated framework. While most sectors will benefit from reduced scrutiny under the new risk-based approach, exports of precious and imitation jewellery through e-commerce platforms have been kept outside its scope.
Reacting to the developments, Kirit Bhansali, Chairman of Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC), welcomed the removal of the value ceiling, calling it a significant step for exporters dealing in high-value goods. However, he also highlighted the exclusion of jewellery from the risk-based re-import system as a missed opportunity. The council has consistently advocated for uniform policies across sectors to maintain competitiveness on a global scale.
Further easing logistics, the government has permitted “Return to Origin” (RTO) for consignments that remain unclaimed or uncleared at courier terminals for over 15 days, provided they are not under restriction or investigation. This is expected to ease congestion at international courier hubs and accelerate cargo movement.
Regulatory amendments have also been made to existing courier import-export rules, allowing re-export of stalled shipments and eliminating earlier value-linked limitations. Complementing these changes is the introduction of a digital “Return Module” within the Express Cargo Clearance System (ECCS), aimed at handling returns more efficiently, especially for e-commerce shipments.
Taken together, these measures reflect a broader push toward digitisation, faster processing, and improved ease of doing business, positioning India’s export ecosystem for stronger global participation.