The 5th Joint Group of Customs (JGC) meeting between

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The meeting was held in Leh, Ladakh, focusing on enhancing bilateral customs and trade relations. • The 5th Joint Group of Customs (JGC) meeting between India and Bhutan was held on May 6-7, 2024, in Leh, Ladakh, focusing on enhancing bilateral customs and trade relations. • Key discussions included opening new Land Customs Stations, developing infrastructure, automation and digitisation of transit processes, and preventing smuggling. • The meeting highlighted coordinated cross-border management and the use of an electronic cargo system for transit cargo. • The meetings are crucial for redefining customs procedures, promoting cooperation, and facilitating cross-border trade, aligning with global best practices. • There are 10 Land Customs Stations along the India-Bhutan border which are significant for the bilateral trade that has grown to $1.615 billion in 2022-23, making up about 80% of Bhutan's total trade. • This cooperation supports India’s ‘Neighbourhood First’ and ‘Act East’ policies, emphasizing the strategic importance of Bhutan as a trade partner and enhancing regional connectivity.