India Expands Global Customs Cooperation: New Agreements with New Zealand & Madagascar – NOTIFICATION No.32/2025 – Customs (N.T.)
Published on: May 2, 2025
By: CA Cult Team
The Indian Government has taken another step towards enhancing international trade security and transparency by notifying two new customs cooperation agreements through G.S.R. 285(E), dated May 1, 2025. This amendment strengthens the legal framework for collaboration between India and two additional countries: New Zealand and the Republic of Madagascar.
📜 Legal Basis
The notification is issued under Section 151B(2) of the Customs Act, 1962, which empowers the Central Government to enter into Customs Mutual Administrative Assistance (CMAA) agreements with foreign states. These agreements facilitate cooperation, intelligence sharing, and enforcement support in customs matters.
This update modifies the earlier notification, No. 58/2021-Customs (N.T.), dated 1st July 2021, by adding two new entries to the list of partnering countries.
🌍 What’s New in G.S.R. 285(E)?
The amendment introduces the following countries into the existing list of CMAA partners:
🔹 13A – New Zealand
- Agreement Title: Cooperative Arrangement between the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) and the New Zealand Customs Service in Customs Matters.
- Objective: Enhances coordination between Indian and New Zealand customs authorities, focusing on the exchange of information, mutual support, and improved compliance with respective customs laws.
🔹 17A – Republic of Madagascar
- Agreement Title: Agreement between the Government of India and the Government of the Republic of Madagascar on Cooperation and Mutual Administrative Assistance in Customs Matters.
- Objective: Strengthens cooperation in enforcement activities, fraud detection, and smooth facilitation of legitimate trade flows between the two nations.
🤝 Why These Agreements Matter
These CMAAs are not just diplomatic gestures—they are critical for:
- Preventing customs fraud and smuggling
- Improving trade facilitation and border security
- Enhancing mutual trust and data-sharing between nations
- Reducing illegal trade and protecting national revenues
For importers, exporters, and compliance professionals, such agreements signal a stronger global enforcement network and potential simplification in international customs processes.
🧾 Final Thoughts
India’s proactive engagement with international partners in the realm of customs cooperation is a sign of its evolving trade ecosystem. With New Zealand and Madagascar now formally added to the list, the country reaffirms its commitment to secure and transparent global trade.
Keep following CA Cult for updates on international trade policies, tax laws, and compliance insights that matter to Indian professionals and businesses.
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