CBIC Introduces UPI Payments for Customs Duty Payment on ICEGATE

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Dated: 25.03.2026

CBIC Introduces UPI Payments for Customs Duty Payment on ICEGATE

The Central Board of Indirect Taxes & Customs (CBIC), under the Ministry of Finance, has consistently introduced innovative measures to simplify trade procedures, enhance transparency, and reduce the time and cost associated with import and export activities. In line with these efforts, CBIC has announced a significant development in customs duty payment through Circular No. 13/2026-Customs, dated 24 March 2026. This initiative introduces the Payment Aggregator facility on the ICEGATE e-Payment platform, revolutionizing the way importers and exporters make customs duty payments.

Key Features of the Payment Aggregator Facility 

The Payment Aggregator facility is designed to provide a seamless and user-friendly experience for customs duty payments. Below are the key features of this new initiative:

Expanded Payment Options:
- For the first time, importers can use credit cards, debit cards, and Unified Payment Interface (UPI) to pay customs duties.
- Internet banking through the Payment Aggregator mode now supports 41 banks, compared to the earlier 23 banks integrated directly with ICEGATE.
Complementary Payment Modes:
- The Payment Aggregator facility complements existing payment modes, such as:
  - Internet banking through authorized banker mode.
  - NEFT/RTGS payment through the Reserve Bank of India (RBI).
Transaction-Wise Payment:
- Importers can make transaction-specific payments through the platform. Payments are routed instantaneously via the Electronic Cash Ledger (ECL) before being accounted for customs duty payment.
Bank Commission Charges:
- As per the Customs (Electronic Cash Ledger) Regulations, 2022, any commission payable to the bank for deposits made through the Payment Aggregator mode will be borne by the person making the deposit.

Current Status of Bank Integration 

To ensure smooth implementation, CBIC has onboarded four major banks—ICICI Bank, JOB, SBI, and HDFC Bank—as Payment Aggregators on the ICEGATE platform. Additional banks will be integrated into the system as their testing is completed.

Legal Framework and User Support

To facilitate the rollout of the Payment Aggregator facility, CBIC has made necessary amendments to the Customs (Electronic Cash Ledger) Regulations, 2022, through Notification No. 30/2026 dated 24 March 2026. Additionally, a comprehensive user manual has been uploaded on the ICEGATE platform to guide users through the onboarding process and ensure a smooth transition to the new payment system. The user manual can be accessed at ICEGATE Guidelines.

Benefits of the Payment Aggregator Facility 

The introduction of the Payment Aggregator facility is expected to bring several benefits to the trade community, including:

Enhanced Convenience: Importers can now choose from multiple payment options, including UPI and credit/debit cards, making the process more accessible.
Wider Banking Network: The integration of 41 banks ensures greater flexibility and convenience for users.
Instantaneous Processing: Payments are routed through the ECL in real-time, reducing delays in duty accounting.
Improved Transparency: The system ensures clear and transparent transactions, fostering trust among stakeholders.

Implementation and Support

CBIC has urged all Principal Chief Commissioners, Chief Commissioners, and other relevant officers to widely publicize this initiative through suitable Trade Notices and Public Notices. Officers are also encouraged to assist stakeholders in adopting the new Payment Aggregator facility. Any challenges faced during implementation should be promptly reported to the Board for resolution.

Conclusion

The introduction of the Payment Aggregator facility on the ICEGATE platform marks a significant milestone in CBIC’s journey toward modernizing customs processes. By offering diverse payment options, expanding the banking network, and ensuring real-time processing, this initiative is set to enhance the ease of doing business for importers and exporters across India.

In case you face any issues related to Indirect Tax-Customs, GST, Foreign Trade Policy (FTP), Arbitration matters and Central Licensing and related advisory matters in India then please feel free to get in touch with SJ EXIM Services.

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

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