Editor’s Note
The inauguration of the CEIFC at SEEPZ-SEZ marks a pivotal advancement in streamlining customs procedures for exporters, reinforcing India’s commitment to trade facilitation.
In a significant step towards enhancing trade facilitation in the export sector, Union Minister of State for Commerce and Industry, Shri Jitin Prasada, inaugurated the CEIFC at the SDF-VIII complex of SEEPZ-SEZ in Mumbai on June 19, 2026.
This centre will help streamline and expedite customs procedures for exporters.
The inauguration event was hosted by Shri Gyaneshwar B. Patil (IAS), Zonal Development Commissioner of SEEPZ-SEZ. Senior officials including Shri Mayur R. Mankar (IRS), Joint Development Commissioner, SEEPZ, and Dr. Sandeep D. Bhosle (IRS), Deputy Development Commissioner, SEEPZ, were present at the event.
Several key representatives from the gem and jewellery industry also participated in the event. These included Kirit Bhansali, Chairman, GJEPC; Shaunak Parikh, Vice Chairman, GJEPC; Adil Kotwal, Chairman, SGJMA; Colin Shah, Chairman – Working Group, Bharat Ratnam Mega CFC; and Vijay Gujarati, Chairman, SEEMA, along with many other members of the trade and industry.
Speaking on the occasion, Shri Jitin Prasada said that the Customs Export-Import Facilitation Centre reflects the need to provide modern facilities in changing times. He stated that this world-class facility will be particularly beneficial for small exporters, as it will improve logistics processes and reduce clearance time.
He emphasized quality as the highest priority and said that with a stable government and long-term vision, India is rapidly moving towards becoming a leader in global trade and manufacturing.
Kirit Bhansali, Chairman of GJEPC, said that the approval of FTWZ Broad-banding for Bharat Ratnam Mega CFC is a significant achievement for the Indian gem and jewellery industry.
He explained that this will enable the Mega CFC to develop into a global trade hub, offering international-level warehousing, product display, and exhibition facilities all under one roof. This will increase global participation, create new business opportunities for MSME units, and further strengthen India’s position as a preferred global centre for gem and jewellery manufacturing, sourcing, and trade.
He also expressed gratitude to the Government of India for developing world-class infrastructure and enhancing the industry’s competitiveness.
The new Customs Export-Import Facilitation Centre (CEIFC) has been developed as a modern single-window facility. Its objective is to provide key customs processes related to export and import at one location, thereby reducing both time and costs for traders and exporters.
This centre is equipped with special facilities for customs inspection, secure handling of valuable goods, and e-commerce related activities. Through modern technology and improved processes, this centre will play a crucial role in making trade more seamless, transparent, and faster. Meanwhile, experts believe that such modern trade infrastructure will significantly contribute to giving new momentum to India’s export sector, empowering small and medium exporters, and establishing the country as a global trade hub.
