NEW DELHI, April 14: India and Nepal have agreed to implement joint steps to combat the smuggling of gold, narcotics, fake currency, and other goods such as e-cigarettes across their shared border, according to a statement released by India’s Finance Ministry on Sunday.

This agreement was reached during the 21st Director-General level talks on Customs Cooperation, held in Kathmandu from April 10–11. The Indian delegation was headed by Abhai Kumar Srivastav, Director-General of the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence under the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC), Department of Revenue. His Nepali counterpart was Mahesh Bhattarai, Director-General of Nepal’s Department of Customs.

The talks acknowledged that cross-border smuggling remains a common and persistent challenge. Both countries committed to strengthening cooperation through active engagement and intelligence exchange to effectively curb unauthorised trade. The two sides pledged to take all necessary measures to work in tandem for enhanced border security and smoother customs operations.

Nepal remains a priority partner under India’s ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy. India is not only Nepal’s largest trading partner but also accounts for two-thirds of Nepal’s total exports. The Customs-level talks are considered crucial for both curbing illicit trade and facilitating legitimate cross-border commerce in today’s interconnected economic environment.

The meeting also reviewed several ongoing initiatives and collaborations. These include progress on the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) regarding Pre-arrival Exchange of Customs Data and the Electronic Origin Data Exchange System (EODES); the finalisation of the Customs Mutual Assistance Agreement (CMAA); and the facilitation of transit cargo movement under the Electronic Cargo Tracking System (ECTS).

Other key topics covered were the automation and digitisation of transit processes, upgrading border infrastructure, and continued knowledge sharing and capacity development programmes. Both parties also explored the potential use of new technologies aimed at streamlining trade while preventing smuggling activities.

The discussions concluded on a positive note, with the Nepali side expressing gratitude to the Government of India, especially CBIC, for its continued support in the training and capacity building of Nepal Customs officials at various levels.