India's customs must accelerate AI adoption to ease taxpayer burden: CBIC

India's customs authority should fast-track the integration of artificial intelligence, machine learning, and real-time data analytics to minimise physical contact with trusted taxpayers, according to CBIC Chairman Vivek Chaturvedi. Speaking on Wednesday, Chaturvedi outlined a five-pillar roadmap for the Customs department, emphasising technology's role in streamlining operations and improving compliance.

At the centre of this vision is the creation of a "unified, trusted taxpayer ecosystem" that monitors consistent compliance across GST, customs, and indirect tax obligations. The integrated approach aims to foster greater synergy across the indirect tax division and build stronger relationships with compliant businesses through minimal bureaucratic friction.

The CBIC chief also underscored the need to support micro, small, and medium enterprises through targeted outreach programmes. He urged the Customs department to help MSMEs better utilise deferred duty payment schemes such as the Eligible Manufacturer Importer programme and the Authorised Economic Operator certification, which can ease working capital pressures on smaller businesses.

Chaturvedi characterised technology as a "great enabler" for customs operations, signalling the department's commitment to modernisation. The roadmap reflects broader efforts within India's tax administration to move toward a more efficient, digital-first approach that reduces compliance costs for businesses while strengthening revenue collection.