Government for faster customs clearances

New Delhi, May 17 (UNI) For faster customs clearances and to improve efficiency of the customs department the government today approved movement of goods and conveyances between India and several countries including the Russian Federation.

A protocol of exchange of information on movement of goods and conveyances between India and Russian Federation was approved after the Cabinet gave its ex-post-facto approval on behalf of the customs administration.

''The exchange of information shall enable identification of discrepancies in the data on goods and conveyances moved between the states of the parties,'' Information and Broadcasting Minister Priya Ranjan Dasmunsi said after the Cabinet meeting.

A similar agreement was approved by the Cabinet with the customs administration of South Africa. The agreement will help in the availability of reliable, quick and cost-effective information and intelligence for the prevention and investigation of customs offences and apprehending of customs offenders.

Another agreement was okayed with Brazil for cooperation and mutual assistance in customs matters.

The Cabinet also gave its approval for concluding a bilateral investment promotion and protection agreement (BIPA) with the government of the United Mexican States for promoting and protecting investment from both countries.

The move would also help increase investment between India and United Mexican States.

UNI