DGFT Removes Courier Export Value Limit from April 2026

In a significant trade facilitation move, the Government of India has issued Notification No. 67/2025-26 dated 27 March 2026, amending Para 9.05 of the Foreign Trade Policy (FTP) 2023.

The update removes the existing ₹10 lakh per consignment value limit for exports through courier services, effective from 1 April 2026.

This change is particularly important for exporters, e-commerce businesses, and MSMEs relying on courier channels for international shipments, as it enhances flexibility and removes a key operational restriction.

Background

Under the earlier provisions of FTP 2023, exports through registered courier services or Foreign Post Offices were permitted, but subject to a maximum value cap of ₹10,00,000 per consignment.

This limit was originally introduced to regulate small-value shipments typically handled through courier channels. However, with the rapid growth of cross-border e-commerce and high-value shipments, this cap had become a constraint for exporters.

Key Highlights of the Notification

  1. DGFT has amended Para 9.05 of FTP 2023
  2. The ₹10 lakh per consignment value limit has been removed
  3. Export through courier services continues to be:
    1. Subject to Customs notifications
    2. Governed by ITC(HS) export policy
  4. No upper value restriction per shipment from 1 April 2026
  5. Applies to exports through:
    1. Registered courier services
    2. Foreign Post Offices

Impact on Businesses

This amendment is a major boost for exporters, especially in the evolving global trade ecosystem.

Key benefits include:

  1. Enhanced flexibility
    Exporters can now ship high-value goods through courier mode without splitting consignments.
  2. Boost to e-commerce exports
     Cross-border e-commerce players can process larger orders more efficiently.
  3. Reduced operational complexity
     No need to divide shipments to comply with value limits.
  4. Faster turnaround time
     Courier mode enables quicker delivery compared to traditional cargo routes.

Improved global competitiveness
 Indian exporters can align better with international logistics practices.

Important Compliance Points

While the value restriction has been removed, exporters must still ensure:

  1. Compliance with ITC(HS) Export Policy
     Restricted or prohibited items cannot be exported.
  2. Adherence to Customs Regulations
     Courier exports remain governed under the Customs Act, 1962.
  3. Proper documentation
     Accurate declaration of value, product classification, and export documentation is essential.
  4. Courier eligibility norms
     Only registered courier operators can be used.

Failure to comply with regulatory requirements may still result in penalties or shipment delays.

Expert Advisory – Preface Venture

At Preface Venture, we see this amendment as a progressive step toward trade facilitation and digital export growth.

What businesses should do now:

  1. Re-evaluate logistics strategy
     Explore shifting high-value shipments to courier mode where feasible.
  2. Align internal processes
     Update SOPs and export documentation practices.
  3. Review product eligibility
     Ensure compliance with ITC(HS) classification and export conditions.
  4. Strengthen compliance systems
     Even without value limits, regulatory scrutiny remains critical.
  5. Leverage e-commerce opportunities
     Businesses can scale cross-border sales more efficiently.

This is a strategic opportunity for exporters to optimize cost, speed, and operational efficiency.

Conclusion

  1. The removal of the ₹10 lakh consignment value limit marks a significant policy shift under FTP 2023. By eliminating this restriction, DGFT has enabled exporters to operate with greater flexibility and efficiency.

    As global trade increasingly moves toward faster and digital channels, this amendment positions Indian exporters to better compete in international markets

Notification No. 67/2025-26 27/03/2026

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