DGFT To Set Up Centralised Unit For Faceless Trade Processing
The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) is set to establish a Central Processing Department (CPD) in Delhi to create a centralised, faceless and jurisdiction-free system for processing trade-related applications.
The initiative by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry is aimed at moving export-import related regulatory processes towards a paperless and centralised model, with applications handled through a single processing unit instead of being linked to individual DGFT regional jurisdictions.
The proposed system is expected to benefit exporters and importers, including textile and apparel companies that regularly deal with applications and regulatory approvals through the DGFT.
According to a DGFT office memorandum, the CPD will operate from the Central Licensing Area in Delhi and will serve as the central unit for processing trade-related applications.
As part of the restructuring, 53 DGFT officers from Delhi and various regional offices have been posted or transferred to the new department. The team includes five Joint DGFTs, 10 Deputy DGFTs and seven Assistant DGFTs, according to media reports.
The centralised system is intended to reduce processing times and improve transparency in the handling of trade applications. It is also expected to provide greater consistency in decision-making by reducing dependence on individual regional jurisdictions.
The move forms part of the government’s broader efforts to simplify foreign trade procedures and improve ease of doing business for exporters and importers. A faceless processing mechanism could also reduce the need for applicants to interact with specific offices or officials for routine regulatory matters.
For the textile and apparel sector, which has a large base of exporters and importers dealing with trade licences, authorisations and other DGFT-related approvals, the shift could streamline administrative processes and reduce delays.
The CPD is proposed to be formally dedicated to the nation in the second half of October 2026. Once operational, the department will centralise the processing of trade-related applications and strengthen the DGFT’s move towards a digital, paperless and jurisdiction-free foreign trade administration system.
