In a significant step toward improving ease of doing business and modernizing India’s trade infrastructure, the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) has issued Circular No. 29/2025-Customs, announcing the launch of SWIFT 2.0—a fully upgraded, data-driven Single Window Interface for Facilitating Trade.
Dated 21 November 2025, this circular marks a transformative shift in how importers, exporters, and Partner Government Agencies (PGAs) interact for No Objection Certificate (NOC) processing and EXIM documentation.
What is SWIFT 2.0?
SWIFT 2.0 is an advanced Single Window ecosystem designed to serve as a single touch point for all EXIM stakeholders. Unlike the earlier version of SWIFT, which functioned largely as a document-repository system, SWIFT 2.0 offers:
- End-to-end digital processing
- Real-time data exchange between Customs and PGAs
- A unified platform where all NOC-issuing PGAs will eventually be integrated
- Reduced physical interface and faster clearance timelines
This upgrade aligns with India’s broader push toward digital governance, transparency, and trade facilitation.
Key Features Benefiting Traders
The circular highlights several game-changing features that will be available on the SWIFT 2.0 platform:
✔ Direct Digital Submission of Data & Documents
Importers and exporters can now upload all additional documents required for NOC processing directly within SWIFT 2.0, eliminating the need to visit multiple PGA portals.
✔ Unified Dashboard for All Applications
Users can track their queries, view past transactions, and monitor application status—all in one place.
✔ Real-Time Alerts
SMS and email notifications will update traders instantly on the progress of their applications and any required actions.
✔ Online Fee Payments
The platform enables digital payment of PGA fees along with downloadable digital receipts.
✔ Inspection Scheduling Transparency
SWIFT 2.0 notifies the exact date and time of PGA inspections, allowing for better planning and fewer delays.
✔ Digital Access to Approved NOCs
Users can view, store, and download NOCs directly from the portal.
PGAs Onboarded in Phase 1
Under the first phase, CBIC has finalized the data fields and mandatory document lists for three major PGAs:
- Animal Quarantine & Certification Services (AQCS)
- Plant Quarantine Management System (PQMS)
- Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI)
These PGAs are crucial to regulating imports of animals, plants, seeds, food items, and agricultural commodities. Their integration ensures seamless coordination and faster clearance of sensitive consignments.
The circular also includes detailed annexures specifying mandatory data fields, conditional information requirements, document codes, declarations, and end-use classifications for AQCS and PQMS. These standardized requirements help eliminate ambiguity and streamline digital filings.
Why SWIFT 2.0 Matters
The launch of SWIFT 2.0 represents a major leap in India’s trade facilitation roadmap:
- It reduces compliance burden
- Enhances transparency
- Cuts clearance time
- Minimizes human intervention
- Ensures uniformity across Customs formations
As more than 60 PGAs are progressively onboarded, SWIFT 2.0 will evolve into a comprehensive, national-level digital trade gateway.
Conclusion
CBIC’s introduction of SWIFT 2.0 signals a future where India’s EXIM processes are faster, smarter, and more user-friendly. For importers, exporters, and logistics players, this unified digital platform promises efficiency, convenience, and a smoother trade experience — strengthening India’s position in the global supply chain.