Goyal sets 31 March 2027 deadline for online trade approvals

Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal has directed officials to complete the digitisation of trade approvals and records by 31 March 2027 so that exporters and importers can access services from the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) without routine office visits from 1 April. The deadline covers licence and permit applications, controlled export approvals and historical records held by DGFT regional offices across India.

Goyal announced the timetable on 4 November 2026 at the virtual inauguration of Vanijya Bhawan and Udyog Bhawan in Jaipur. Jaipur is the first state capital to bring the Ministry of Commerce and Industry’s departments and affiliated offices together at one location. Goyal called for similar centres in other state capitals to help businesses obtain trade and investment advice.

Goyal directed officials to move the full application process online, including approvals for exports of Special Chemicals, Organisms, Materials, Equipment and Technologies (SCOMET). He also asked DGFT regional authorities to digitise past records and called on the departments to simplify their forms and procedures.

Where officials need to inspect an original document, Goyal proposed dedicated counters with computers at office entrances. Staff could check the original and upload it during the same visit. He also encouraged wider use of self-certification.

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