India-Nepal Inter-Governmental Sub-Committee Meeting Concludes in New Delhi, Focuses on Strengthening Bilateral Trade and Transit
An Inter-Governmental Sub-Committee (IGSC) meeting was held in New Delhi to address trade, transit, and the control of unauthorized trade between India and Nepal.
The meeting of the India-Nepal Inter-Governmental Sub-Committee (IGSC) on trade, transit, and cooperation was held on September 16 and 17, 2026, at Vanijya Bhawan in New Delhi, with the objectives of controlling unauthorized trade and enhancing mutual cooperation. The Indian delegation was led by Mr. Ujjwal Kumar Ghosh, Joint Secretary of the Department of Commerce, while the Nepali delegation was led by Buddha Bahadur Gurung, Joint Secretary of the Ministry of Industry, Commerce, and Supplies of the Government of Nepal. Senior officials from the respective ministries and departments of both countries were also present at the meeting.
During the meeting, both sides reviewed critical issues including market access, customs, trade facilitation, standards, food safety, sanitary and phytosanitary measures, pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and AYUSH products. The primary focus of the discussions was to make market access more seamless for products from India and Nepal, as well as to deliberate on standards related to agricultural, dairy, and food products.
Digital solutions to strengthen customs cooperation were also discussed, including the exchange of pre-arrival information, electronic verification of certificates of origin, and customs automation. These measures aim to simplify legitimate trade and prevent the misuse of preferential trade agreements.
On the issues of transit and connectivity, both nations evaluated rail and road links, freight transport, integrated check posts, and land-port infrastructure. The meeting emphasized the more effective utilization of existing facilities and the removal of trade barriers.
Both parties appreciated the ongoing cooperation in the areas of standards, food safety, and capacity building. Furthermore, they stressed the need for continuous coordination between relevant agencies to resolve problems such as unauthorized trade and commercial fraud. At the conclusion of the meeting, both sides agreed to take time-bound action on issues requiring technical examination and to maintain close contact.
