Under the Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA) ratified by India, the National Committee on Trade Facilitation (NCTF) was established, comprising representatives from both the government and private sectors. This committee spearheaded the formulation of the National Trade Facilitation Action Plan (NTFAP), aimed at enhancing the efficiency of trade processes in the country.

 

India’s National Time Release Study (NTRS) serves as a performance measurement tool aimed at providing a quantitative measure of cargo release time. It follows a robust, inclusive and consultative approach, ensuring effective evaluation of key processes through the analysis of electronically generated data as well as qualitative assessment based on detailed interactions on the ground. 

 

NTRS focuses on two key aspects – administration and analytics. Administration involves extensive port visits to review processes and identify operational challenges in order to facilitate structural changes. Additionally, the study also entails stakeholder consultations to incorporate qualitative insights and impart inclusivity to the reform facilitation process. Analytics emphasize on data integration from multiple stakeholders, supported by the appointment of nodal officers to ensure timely collection and seamless linking of data. Diverse data sources – across a complex supply chain – are leveraged to ensure comprehensive data capturing and assessment. A TRS Working Group – comprising key stakeholders and decision makers – guides the process, ensuring a consultative approach to enhance effectiveness in implementing reform measures.