Boost to small exporters, MSMEs as govt removes Rs 10-lakh cap on courier trade
New Delhi, Updated At : 12:15 AM Apr 04, 2026 IST
The move is being seen as a reform that could streamline export operations & support the government’s aim of expanding India’s footprint in global trade. iStock
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In a significant policy shift aimed at boosting exports and easing trade processes, the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, through the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), has removed the existing ₹10 lakh per-consignment value cap on exports made through courier services. The amendment, notified under the Foreign Trade (Development and Regulation) Act, 1992, will come into force from April 1, 2026.
The notification, issued as part of changes to the Foreign Trade Policy 2023, revises Para 9.05, which governs exports through courier services and foreign post offices. Until now, exporters using courier channels were restricted to a maximum consignment value of ₹10 lakh. With this cap now removed, exporters can ship goods of any value through registered courier services, subject to existing regulatory provisions.
According to the revised provision, exports through registered courier services or Foreign Post Offices will continue to be governed by notifications issued under the Customs Act, 1962. However, the earlier ceiling on consignment value has been completely withdrawn. Exportability of goods will still be regulated as per the ITC (HS) classification and the broader export policy framework.
Officials indicated that the move is aimed at simplifying export procedures and aligning India’s trade practices with global standards, where courier exports are widely used for high-value, time-sensitive shipments.
The removal of the value cap is expected to significantly benefit micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), startups, and e-commerce exporters, who rely heavily on courier channels for international shipments. Industry stakeholders have long argued that the earlier ₹10 lakh limit was restrictive, especially for sectors such as electronics, gems and jewellery, and specialized manufacturing.
With the new policy in place, exporters will have greater flexibility in consolidating shipments and reducing logistical fragmentation, which is likely to improve cost efficiency and turnaround time.
The DGFT, headed by Lav Agarwal, stated that the amendmentwas part of ongoing efforts to promote ease of doing business and enhance India’s export competitiveness. By removing procedural bottlenecks, the government aims to encourage higher export volumes through faster and more efficient channels.
Trade experts believe the decision will particularly strengthen India’s position in cross-border e-commerce and high-value niche exports, while also reducing compliance burdens for exporters.
The notification states that the revised provisions will take effect from April 1, 2026. From this date onward, there will be no prescribed value limit per consignment for courier exports, marking a structural shift in India’s export logistics framework.
The move is being seen as a reform that could streamline export operations and support the government’s broader objective of expanding India’s footprint in global trade.
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