An agreement has been inked between the postal department of India and the United States. The Indian Government Postal department, India Post and the United States Postal Service (USPS) have entered into an agreement for Electronic Exchange of Customs data (EECD) related to postal shipments made between the two countries. The agreement improves the performance of postal services in terms of reliability, visibility and security by providing the electronic data of international postal items prior to their physical arrival at the destination. The customs clearance will be made in advance.
India, US sign landmark defence pact, BECA
The top export destination for India is the US holding approximate figure of 17%. In 2019, 20% of outbound EMS and 30% of Letters & Small Packets transmitted by India Post were destined to USA whereas USA originated parcels of about 60% has been received by India Post. USA is a major destination of Indian MSME products, Gems &Jewelry, Pharmaceuticals and other local products. The Exchange of Electronic Advance Data (EAD) as per the agreement promotes the trade from different parts of India to USA through India post. The major demand of the export industry to get customs clearance in advance is fulfilled by the agreement.
India US signed BECA during 2+2 diplomatic talks
The agreement is primarily to facilitate ‘ease of exports’ for small and large exporters through postal channels from different parts of the country and is a contribution towards making India an Export Hub for the world. The agreement was signed by Mr. Prannoy Sharma, Deputy Director General (International Relations & Global Business), Department of Posts, Government of India and Mr. Robert H. Raines Jr., Managing Director, Global Business of United States Postal Service.
