CBIC launches a new portal, which is SWIFT 2.0, which stands as the new digital gateway for importers, exporters, and other trade stakeholders. This upgraded platform merges multiple government agency requirements into one single portal. The result brings faster approvals, fewer delays, and a clearer road for international shipments. Traders benefit from a unified system that replaces older document-heavy processes.

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What is SWIFT 2.0?

SWIFT 2.0 refers to the upgraded version of the Single Window Interface for Facilitating Trade. It serves as a one-stop digital portal for all export and import (EXIM) procedures. Earlier, SWIFT acted mainly as a document repository for No Objection Certificate (NOC) clearance. Now, the 2.0 version uses real-time data exchange. It enables full end-to-end digital handling of NOCs and related EXIM processes.

This new portal connects importers, exporters, and all relevant Partner Government Agencies (PGAs) under one roof. With SWIFT 2.0, all communication, submission, approvals, and tracking become digital.

Key Features of SWIFT 2.0

SWIFT 2.0 brings a host of features that simplify trade procedures:

• Unified submission: Traders submit data and required documents only once, no need to juggle multiple agency portals.
• Dashboard view: A clear dashboard shows all applications, status updates, and history in one place.
• Real-time alerts: SMS and email updates notify stakeholders about application status or required actions.
• Online payment: PGA fees can be paid online through SWIFT 2.0. Digital receipts are generated automatically.
• Digital NOC download: Approved NOCs from PGAs become instantly available for download.
• Inspection scheduling: If a physical inspection is required, SWIFT 2.0 informs of the scheduled date and time and allows tracking of confirmation.
• Complete transparency: All communication, queries, and responses remain visible in the portal, no lost emails or hidden messages.

Onboarding of AQCS, PQMS, and FSSAI

Under the first rollout phase, three major agencies join SWIFT 2.0 for mandatory use starting 01 December 2025:

• Animal Quarantine and Certification Services (AQCS) handles clearances for animal products and live animals.
• The Plant Quarantine Management System (PQMS) manages consignment clearances for plant and plant-based goods.
• Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) deals with food items, edible goods, and safety compliance.

These three cover many kinds of consignment subject to NOC. For them, a complete list of required data fields and document codes has been finalised after consultations between relevant ministries and agencies. Traders must declare or upload the needed information at the time of filing the Bill of Entry, or through additional detail upload via the unified application dashboard.

Benefits for Importers and Exporters

This new system offers multiple advantages:

• Time-saving: All NOC-related steps, submission, approval, and payment occur online without physical visits.
• Reduced errors: A single standardized format cuts down mismatches and reduces rejections due to missing documents.
• Better tracking: Traders monitor status and history easily. Alerts avoid missed deadlines or requests.
• Lower cost: Less paperwork, fewer delays, fewer administrative hassles. Digital receipts replaced manual receipts.
• Improved transparency: Real-time updates and a unified logbook build trust and clarity.

How to Use SWIFT 2.0 for NOC Processing?

The steps for traders become simple. The steps are:

1. File the Bill of Entry as usual.
2. In SWIFT 2.0, submit all required data fields and upload necessary documents as per PGA's requirement (for AQCS, PQMS, or FSSAI).
3. Pay any applicable PGA fees online.
4. Track application status in the dashboard.
5. Receive SMS/email updates, get information about inspections or document queries.
6. Once approved, download the digital NOC instantly.
7. View the full history of past clearances inside the portal.

What Changes Compared to the Old System?

Under the earlier version of SWIFT, importers had to upload documents on each PGA's separate portal if additional documents were requested. That meant multiple logins, multiple submissions, and risk of oversight. With SWIFT 2.0:

• All approvals happen in one place.
• Extra documents, if demanded, should also be uploaded to the same unified portal.
• No need to access different PGA systems.
• Workflow becomes standard, simple, and transparent.

SWIFT 2.0 also plans to include more than 60 PGAs in phases. This expansion will cover a wide array of consignment types, offering a one-stop solution for many kinds of trade permissions, licenses, and NOCs.

What Traders Should Do Before 01 December 2025?

Stakeholders must take timely steps to ensure smooth compliance:

• Check public notices/trade notices released by field formations.
• Review required data fields and document codes applicable for AQCS, PQMS, and FSSAI (as per annexures).
• Ensure readiness to upload all mandatory information during Bill of Entry filing or through the unified application dashboard.
• Familiarise with online payment and digital receipt mechanism for PGA fees.

Broader Impact of SWIFT 2.0 on Trade and Ease of Doing Business

SWIFT 2.0 makes trade smooth and simple in India. One platform handles many checks from different government agencies. This removes long steps and extra paperwork. Goods get cleared faster at ports. More companies feel confident to buy and sell goods across countries. This helps India grow in global trade. 

This shift also aligns with modern digital governance, driving higher efficiency and lower procedural costs for traders. Smaller firms, which earlier struggled with complex multi-agency clearances, can benefit greatly.

As more PGAs join the platform, digital trade processes will become more inclusive. The trade community will find it easier to manage compliance, shipments, and clearances under one roof.

Conclusion

SWIFT 2.0 brings a smart change in India's trade system. From December 2025, AQCS, PQMS, and FSSAI will work on this one platform. The system gives fast and clear NOC approvals. A digital screen shows every update in one place. Alerts come right away when anything changes. Money can be paid online. Approved papers can be downloaded anytime. The system becomes faster and clearer. It supports smooth and easy import and export work all over India.