Secretary of the Revenue Department, Arvind Shrivastava, stated that India's growing trade volumes, integration into global value chains, and expanding digital commerce ecosystem require customs governance systems that are efficient, transparent, and technology-driven.
While presiding over the National Symposium on Customs Reforms 2026 in New Delhi today, Mr. Shrivastava said that Customs Administration occupies a uniquely strategic position in this transformation and in achieving the vision.
He added that it is not merely a regulatory authority, but an institution that protects society and enhances India's global competitiveness. The Secretary said that instead of an authoritative and adversarial relationship between the tax department and the industry, the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs is building a relationship of partnership and collaboration with the industry.
He also expressed hope that today's symposium will generate constructive ideas, strengthen institutional collaboration, and reinforce our shared commitment to facilitation with accountability.