The Indian government has taken a proactive step to assist the nation’s exporters and importers by operationalizing the ‘Global Tariff and Trade Helpdesk.’ This initiative comes in response to significant shifts in global trade dynamics, particularly the recent increase in tariffs announced by the United States. The helpdesk is set to serve as a crucial support mechanism for stakeholders navigating the challenges posed by these emerging trade issues.
The Department of Commerce and the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) are closely monitoring developments in international trade, with a keen focus on evolving tariff structures, import surges, and export-related obstacles. This collaborative effort aims to identify new opportunities that could arise from the changes, while also addressing the potential pressures created by heightened import activity from specific nations or sectors.
In its statement, the government encouraged members of the export-import community to share their experiences and provide input on areas where additional assistance may be needed. By gathering insights from stakeholders, the authorities hope to formulate targeted measures that can effectively mitigate challenges and foster growth within the trade ecosystem.
The Global Tariff and Trade Helpdesk is designed to address a wide range of issues confronting exporters and importers, including import and export challenges, sudden surges in imports or dumping practices, regulatory and compliance hurdles, EXIM clearance delays, logistics and supply chain bottlenecks, financial or banking problems, and any other concerns or suggestions requiring attention.
Beyond providing direct support to stakeholders, the helpdesk will act as a coordinating body, collecting trade-related concerns that span across various ministries, departments, and agencies at both central and state levels. By facilitating communication and collaboration between these entities, the helpdesk seeks to secure comprehensive resolutions to pressing trade issues.
Exporters and importers seeking assistance can easily submit their concerns via the DGFT website. Users can navigate to the ‘Services’ section and access the DGFT Helpdesk Service, where they can create a new request under the category ‘Global Tariff and Trade Issues.’ Sub-categories such as Import Challenges, Export Challenges, Import Surges or Dumping, EXIM Clearance, Logistics and Supply Chain Challenges, Regulatory and Compliance Issues, or Other Issues and Suggestions are available for selection. Stakeholders are encouraged to provide relevant details to ensure accurate and swift resolution.
Alternatively, concerns can be directed to the email address dgftedi[at]nic[dot]in, with the subject line ‘Global Tariff and Trade Helpdesk.’ Once submitted, users can track the status of their issues using the tracker feature available under DGFT Helpdesk Services. Notifications regarding updates and resolutions will also be sent via email and SMS to ensure effective communication.
The government has emphasized the importance of utilizing these facilities to address trade-related obstacles and improve the overall efficiency of the export-import framework. By fostering collaboration and ensuring timely support, the initiative aims to strengthen India’s position in the global trade arena and safeguard the interests of its export-import community. Stakeholders are encouraged to leverage this dedicated helpdesk and contribute to enhancing the resilience and competitiveness of the nation’s trade practices.
