India strengthens global anti-smuggling network

Over 100 wildlife trafficking cases were detected. Seizures also included dual-use goods, arms, ammunition, drones, and fake Indian currency notes.

India has strengthened its global enforcement framework to combat transnational smuggling, with 42 Mutual Customs Cooperation Agreements (MCCAs) already signed and 21 more under negotiation, CBIC Member Mohan Kumar Singh said on Wednesday.

Speaking at the 5th Edition of Anti-Smuggling Day organised by FICCI CASCADE, Singh noted that smuggling has transformed into an organised, technology-driven economic crime with serious implications for national security and economic stability.

He said customs formations and the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) have intensified enforcement efforts during the current financial year. In the first three quarters alone, authorities seized around 500 kg of gold, nearly 150 million illicit cigarette sticks, about 120 kg of cocaine, 50 kg of heroin, and close to 3,700 kg of hydroponic cannabis at airports.

In addition, over 100 wildlife trafficking cases were detected. Seizures also included dual-use goods, arms, ammunition, drones, and fake Indian currency notes.

Singh emphasised that smuggling syndicates are now commodity-agnostic and technologically agile, using digital anonymity, complex financial layering and cross-border coordination along with traditional concealment techniques. He said enforcement agencies must shift from event-based seizures to network-based disruption by targeting financial flows, logistics enablers and international linkages sustaining illicit trade.

Customs, he added, serves as the first line of defence at the country’s borders. Through risk-based inspections, advanced cargo screening, non-intrusive examination systems and AI-driven analytics, suspicious consignments are being identified before entering the domestic market.

Referring to recent Union Budget announcements, Singh said AI-powered image analytics and expanded container scanning at major ports will further strengthen enforcement, while GST simplification and customs reforms aim to promote compliance and curb incentives for illicit trade.

FICCI CASCADE Chairman Anil Rajput stressed that combating smuggling requires strong international partnerships and timely policy action to prevent serious economic consequences.