Launch of SWIFT 2.0 and Integration of AQCS, PQMS, and FSSAI

The Government of India, through the Central Board of Indirect Taxes & Customs (CBIC), has taken a significant step forward in enhancing trade facilitation and improving the ease of doing business with the launch of SWIFT 2.0. This upgraded version of the Single Window Interface for Facilitating Trade (SWIFT) is a unified, fully digital platform designed to streamline import and export (EXIM) processes for trade stakeholders and Partner Government Agencies (PGAs).

What is SWIFT 2.0?

SWIFT 2.0 is an advanced, data-driven platform that builds upon the earlier version of SWIFT, which primarily functioned as a document repository for No Objection Certificate (NOC) clearance. The new version introduces enhanced automation, seamless data exchange, and end-to-end digital processing for EXIM clearances involving PGAs. It aims to provide a single touchpoint for importers, exporters, and other stakeholders, eliminating the need to navigate multiple systems.

Key Features of SWIFT 2.0 

SWIFT 2.0 offers a host of features that promise to revolutionize the trade experience:

Direct Submission of Data and Documents: Importers and exporters can submit additional data fields and documents required for obtaining NOCs directly through SWIFT 2.0, reducing physical interactions with PGAs.
Unified Dashboard: Users can view all their details, track responses to queries, and review transaction history with any PGA on a single dashboard.
Real-Time Alerts: Trade members receive SMS and email notifications about the status of their NOC applications, ensuring timely updates and actions.
Online Payments: Users can make online payments for PGA fees and receive digital receipts for their records.
Inspection Scheduling and Tracking: Stakeholders are notified of the scheduled date and time for visual inspections by PGAs and can track confirmations directly through the platform.
Digital NOC Access: Importers and exporters can digitally view and download approved NOCs issued by PGAs.
Integration of PGAs: SWIFT 2.0 will gradually onboard over 60 PGAs, creating a seamless experience for the trading community by consolidating all NOC-issuing agencies into one platform.

Onboarding of AQCS, PQMS, and FSSAI 

In the first phase of SWIFT 2.0 rollout, three key PGAs have been integrated into the platform:

Animal Quarantine and Certification Services (AQCS): AQCS ensures the health and safety of imported animals and livestock products. SWIFT 2.0 facilitates the submission of mandatory data fields and documents, such as health certificates, laboratory reports, and import licenses, required for AQCS clearances.
Plant Quarantine Management System (PQMS): PQMS oversees the import of plant commodities to prevent the entry of pests and diseases. SWIFT 2.0 enables the submission of data fields like plant commodity name, scientific name, plant category, and phytosanitary certificates.
Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI): FSSAI regulates the import of food products to ensure compliance with food safety standards. SWIFT 2.0 allows importers to submit essential data fields such as FSSAI license numbers, food item categories, storage conditions, and best-before dates, along with mandatory documents like labels, packing lists, and country-of-origin certificates.

Benefits of SWIFT 2.0

The integration of AQCS, PQMS, and FSSAI into SWIFT 2.0 brings several benefits to the trading community:

Simplified Processes: By providing a single platform for all EXIM-related clearances, SWIFT 2.0 reduces the complexity of dealing with multiple systems.
Time Efficiency: Real-time alerts and digital processing ensure faster NOC approvals and reduced delays in trade operations.
Transparency: The unified dashboard and transaction history enhance transparency and accountability in the clearance process.
Cost Savings: Online payments and digital receipts eliminate the need for physical paperwork, saving time and resources.
Improved Compliance: The platform ensures accurate filing of required data and documents, reducing the risk of errors and penalties.

Implementation Timeline

The mandatory filing for AQCS, PQMS, and FSSAI through SWIFT 2.0 will be effective from December 1, 2025. CBIC has advised all field formations to issue public notices and trade notices to sensitize stakeholders about the new system.

Conclusion

The launch of SWIFT 2.0 marks a significant milestone in India’s journey toward trade facilitation and digital transformation. By integrating key PGAs like AQCS, PQMS, and FSSAI, the platform promises to provide a seamless, efficient, and transparent experience for importers, exporters, and other trade stakeholders. As the system continues to onboard more PGAs in a phased manner, it is set to become a game-changer in the EXIM landscape, fostering economic growth and global trade partnerships.

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Source: CBIC, Ministry of Finance, Govt. of India

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