DGFT Moves with Customs to Launch Faceless Applications for Imports and Exports, 53 Officers Sitting in various Locations to Handle CLA, Delhi Based System

Ø  No Face to Face Integrations, Only Officer Located in any Office to Handle Cases

Ø  System to Go Online Mid October

GoI has launched a new Faceless Trade Facilitation System (FTFS) backed by a Central Processing Department (CPD) at the Central Licensing Area in New Delhi, scheduled to be dedicated to the nation in the second fortnight of October 2026.

Key Features of the Initiative

Ø  Faceless & Paperless: Enables jurisdiction-free and digital processing of trade-related applications for importers and exporters.

Ø  Core Objectives: Aims to cut down processing delays, increase transparency, and improve the overall ease of doing business.

Ø  Administrative Setup: The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) has initially transferred 53 officers—including Joint DGFTs, Deputy DGFTs, and Assistant DGFTs—to staff the new central unit.

The document announces the establishment of the Central Processing Department in DGFT and assigns additional charge to senior officers for its operational readiness.

Establishment of Central Processing Department

·         The DGFT is setting up the CPD at CLA Delhi to facilitate faceless trade processing.

·         The system aims to improve transparency, reduce processing time, and enhance ease of doing business.

·         The CPD will process trade applications with officers from DGFT headquarters and regional offices.

·         The system is scheduled to be operational by the second fortnight of October 2026.

Appointment of Officers to Oversee CPD

·         Additional charge of CPD is assigned to five officers of the level of Additional Director General of Foreign Trade.

·         Officers continue their existing duties while handling CPD responsibilities.

·         No extra remuneration is provided for the additional charge.

·         Officers are responsible for monitoring processing, turnaround time, and decision quality to ensure system readiness.

[DGFT Office Memorandum dated 14.09.2026]