India–Nepal Discuss the Inter-Governmental Sub-Committee on Trade, Transit, and Cooperation

India and Nepal held a crucial round of talks on trade and transit at Vanijya Bhawan, New Delhi, on 16–17 September 2026. The meeting brought together senior officials from both countries under the Inter-Governmental Sub-Committee (IGSC) on Trade, Transit, and Cooperation to Control Unauthorised Trade, a forum that regularly reviews how the two neighbours do business with each other.

The IGSC Is an Important Bilateral Institutional Mechanism for India and Nepal

IGSC is a standing platform where India and Nepal work out the practical details of cross-border commerce. It doesn't just talk policy in the abstract; it digs into market access, customs procedures, food safety standards, and transport links, then pushes both sides toward workable solutions. As India is Nepal's largest trading partner, this mechanism plays a key role in keeping that relationship running smoothly.

Highlights of Major Discussion in IGSC India-Nepal Meet

1. Explored ways to widen market access for agricultural goods, dairy, pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and AYUSH products
2. Discussed tightening customs cooperation through pre-arrival information sharing and electronic verification of Certificates of Origin
3. Reviewed progress on customs automation and digital trade processes
4. Assessed rail and road connectivity, along with the state of Integrated Check Posts and land-port infrastructure
5. Identified operational bottlenecks slowing down bilateral and transit trade
6. Agreed to deepen cooperation on standards, phytosanitary measures, and conformity assessment
7. Stressed the need for joint action against unauthorised trade and commercial fraud
8. Committed to time-bound follow-up on technical issues raised during talks

Key Delegation Leaders Present in IGSC

The Indian side was headed by Ujjwal Kumar Ghosh, Joint Secretary, Department of Commerce. Representing Nepal was Buddha Bahadur Gurung, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Supplies. Officials from related ministries on both sides also joined the discussions.

Described as cordial and constructive, the meeting reinforced a long-standing economic partnership. With both governments now committed to acting on the issues raised, the outcomes could translate into smoother trade flows and stronger connectivity between the two countries in the months ahead.