Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) has announced a collaboration between the Central Revenues Control Laboratory (CRCL) and the National Forensic Sciences University (NFSU), Gandhinagar, through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This partnership aims to enhance drug-related enforcement by focusing on trace detection, efficient forensic analysis, and research into synthetic drugs. In a move to simplify customs procedures and promote ease of doing business, CBIC has also digitized the issuance of Concessional Customs Duty Certificates (CCDC) and CRO exemption certificates issued by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY). The automation initiative, ACE (Automation of Certificate of Exemption), allows online submission and processing of applications via the SWIFT portal, replacing the earlier manual and e-office-based methods. This development is expected to improve processing speed, transparency, and user experience for the EXIM trade, particularly in the green energy sector. The newsletter also acknowledges the retirement of Shri Rajiv Kapoor and Ms. V. Sangeeta, recognizing their long-standing service and contributions to the department. CBIC expressed appreciation for their commitment and extended best wishes for their post-retirement life.
Weekly Newsletter from Chairman CBIC Dated 04/08/2025
Government of India
Ministry of Finance
Department of Revenue
Central Board of Indirect Taxes & Customs
04th August, 2025
DO No. 31 News Letter/CH (IC)/2025
Dear colleague,
Blending technology and science for strengthening drug-related enforcement, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the Central Revenues Control Laboratory (CRCL) and the National Forensic Sciences University (NFSU), Gandhinagar. The MoU will enable cutting-edge collaboration in trace detection, production of court-ready evidence, faster turnaround of forensic results, and research on emerging synthetic drugs. This partnership marks a pivotal move towards smarter laboratories, safer borders, and decisive enforcement action.
In line with the Government’s vision of Ease of Doing Business, CBIC continues to drive the digital transformation of customs processes by automating manual procedures in clearance. Recently, DG Systems automated the issuance of LPCOs by Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY). MeitY issues Concessional Customs duty Certificates (CCDC) and CRO exemption certificates to the EXIM trade to avail tariff and non-tariff benefits in customs clearance. Traditionally, applications were submitted using paper-based forms which were processed through an e-office system. Once approved, the certificates were issued manually to the applicants. This process has now been completely digitized for MeitY by introducing ACE (Automation of Certificate of Exemption), a fully automated system for users involved in green energy generation. Now, submission of applications by trade users and processing of CCDC and CRO exemption applications by MeitY officers will be done online directly through the SWIFT portal. This seamless integration ensures faster processing, greater transparency, and improved facilitation for the EXIM trade.
CBIC bids a fond farewell to Shri Rajiv Kapoor and Ms. V. Sangeeta on their superannuation. Throughout their distinguished careers, they have exemplified dedication, professionalism, and integrity, making invaluable contributions to the service and leaving a legacy of commitment and excellence. The CBIC fraternity expresses its deep appreciation for their service to the nation and extends warm wishes for good health, happiness, and success in their future endeavours.
Till next week!
Yours sincerely,
(Sanjay Kumar Agarwal)
All Officers and Staff of the Central Board of Indirect Taxes 86 Customs.
