In a major move to enhance trade efficiency and ease of doing business, the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) has launched SWIFT 2.0, an upgraded Single Window Interface for Facilitating Trade. Circular No. 29/2025, issued on November 21, 2025, outlines the onboarding of key Partner Government Agencies (PGAs) such as the Animal Quarantine and Certification Services (AQCS), Plant Quarantine (PQMS), and the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) onto this unified digital platform. This initiative marks a significant step toward end-to-end digitization of import-export clearances in India.
From Document Repository to Digital Integration
The original SWIFT platform functioned primarily as a document-repository system for obtaining No Objection Certificates (NOCs) from PGAs. While it allowed importers and exporters to submit clearance documents online via ICEGATE, users still had to interact separately with each PGA to upload additional documents, leading to multiple touchpoints and process delays. SWIFT 2.0 revolutionizes this system by providing a fully digital, data-driven platform that serves as a single touchpoint for all EXIM stakeholders. The platform aims to gradually integrate over 60 PGAs, reducing redundancy and creating a seamless trade ecosystem.
Key Features and Benefits for Traders
SWIFT 2.0 brings several advanced features for importers, exporters, and trade stakeholders:
- Unified Dashboard: Users can view all details related to NOC applications, track queries, and review historical transactions with PGAs.
- Real-Time Alerts: SMS and email notifications inform traders about NOC status, required actions, and scheduled visual inspections.
- Digital Payments: PGA fees can now be paid online with instant digital receipts, reducing paperwork and delays.
- Digital NOCs: Approved NOCs can be viewed and downloaded digitally, eliminating the need for physical documents.
- Streamlined Inspections: Traders receive notifications about inspection schedules and can confirm appointments digitally through SWIFT 2.0.
These features collectively reduce physical touchpoints, save time, and improve transparency in trade processes, ensuring that importers and exporters have a more predictable and efficient experience.
Phased Onboarding and Implementation
In its first phase, SWIFT 2.0 has onboarded AQCS, PQMS, and FSSAI, with consolidated lists of mandatory data fields and documents finalized for seamless NOC processing. The platform is planned to expand gradually, integrating additional PGAs, making it a truly single touchpoint solution for the Indian trading community.
A Step Forward in Trade Facilitation
SWIFT 2.0 aligns with India’s broader vision of digital governance and paperless trade, providing a fully integrated platform for import-export clearance. By automating processes, improving real-time tracking, and centralizing interactions with multiple PGAs, the system promises faster clearances, reduced compliance burden, and enhanced transparency.
For importers, exporters, and trade partners, SWIFT 2.0 is more than just an upgrade—it is a game-changer in trade facilitation, setting the stage for a modern, efficient, and globally competitive Indian trade ecosystem.