CBIC Encourages Women Participation in International Trade: Issues Circular [Read Circular]

The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs ( CBIC ), promoting gender inclusivity in international trade has issued Circular No. 2/2024-Customs dated March 8th, 2024. The board has recommended measures to encourage greater participation of women in the industry.

Recognizing the crucial role of trade in advancing equality, CBIC highlighted the necessity of women’s representation across all levels and roles within the sector. Whether as traders, customs house agents, freight forwarders, or customs brokers, women should have equal opportunities for engagement.

As the logistics sector witnesses a growing presence of women professionals, CBIC calls for collaborative efforts from all stakeholders, including Partner Government Agencies ( PGAs ) and trade bodies, to ensure gender inclusivity.

In alignment with these goals, CBIC has issued directives for Chief Commissioners/Commissioners to:

1. Ensure the representation of women in both the Permanent Trade Facilitation Committee ( PTFC ) and Customs Clearance Facility Committee ( CCFC ) meetings, preferably through women’s associations.
2. Include at least one agenda point from a women’s perspective in trade-related discussions.
3. Encourage trade bodies and custodians to establish dedicated help desks and processing mechanisms for women traders and logistics service providers.
4. Support the upskilling of women logistics service providers, freight forwarders, and customs brokers by offering relevant training programs.

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