Background and Rationale

Amid increasing volatility in global trade due to tariff shifts, import surges, and counter-tariff measures, stakeholders across the export-import ecosystem face new challenges and opportunities. Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, has responded by launching a dedicated Global Tariff and Trade Helpdesk to proactively address these issues and facilitate smoother trade operations for Indian exporters and importers.

Detailed Comparison of Provisions

Amendments and Their Implementation

DGFT has operationalised the Global Tariff and Trade Helpdesk from April 11, 2025, to support the trade community with:

• Tariff and counter-tariff challenges.
• Import surges, dumping concerns.
• EXIM clearances, logistics, supply chain bottlenecks.
• Financial/banking and regulatory issues.

Accessing the Helpdesk:

1. Visit DGFT Website → Services → DGFT Helpdesk Service.
2. Click ‘Create New Request’ → Select Category: Global Tariff and Trade Issues.
3. Choose relevant sub-category, enter issue details, and submit.
4. Alternatively, email at dgftedi@nic.in or call 1800-111-550.

A ticket system with real-time status tracking, SMS/email alerts, and resolution timelines ensures transparency and accountability.

Advantages of the Helpdesk

• Single Window Support: Centralised grievance redressal for a wide range of trade issues.
• Real-Time Status: Stakeholders receive instant updates through email/SMS.
• Collaborative Resolution: DGFT to coordinate with multiple government bodies for effective outcomes.
• Export Competitiveness: Helps address dumping/import pressure that may hurt domestic industry.
• User-Friendly Access: Simple web-based interface and helpline for widespread reach.

Implications and Future Prospects

This initiative marks a significant shift in DGFT’s role from being primarily regulatory to increasingly facilitative. It empowers the trade community to raise systemic issues quickly, paving the way for:

• Early identification of trade barriers.
• Swift policy responses to import/export disruptions.
• Enhanced confidence among MSMEs navigating complex trade flows.
• Creation of a responsive ecosystem integrating trade intelligence with policy execution.

Conclusion

The operationalisation of the Global Tariff and Trade Helpdesk by DGFT is a timely and strategic move to equip Indian exporters and importers with institutional support amid shifting international trade dynamics. By addressing real-time concerns through a tech-enabled and centralised system, DGFT reinforces its commitment to make Indian trade resilient, responsive, and future-ready.