In a major reform aimed at expanding India’s footprint in global e-commerce, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced the complete removal of the ₹10 lakh per-consignment value cap on courier exports in her Budget 2026 speech. The move is expected to significantly benefit small businesses, artisans, and start-ups seeking easier and faster access to international markets.
Big Push for Small Exporters and Artisans
The earlier value restriction often acted as a bottleneck for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and individual entrepreneurs selling high-value or customised products abroad. With the cap now removed, exporters can ship consignments of any value through courier mode, enabling them to scale operations and compete more effectively on global digital marketplaces.
Strengthening India’s E-Commerce Export Ecosystem
The Finance Minister highlighted that the measure aligns with the government’s broader objective of empowering Indian enterprises to tap global demand through e-commerce platforms. Courier exports are widely used by start-ups and small sellers due to their speed, lower compliance burden, and simplified documentation compared to traditional cargo routes.
By eliminating the value ceiling, the Budget aims to make courier exports a more viable and attractive channel for cross-border trade, especially for first-time exporters.
Technology-Driven Handling of Returns and Rejections
Addressing long-standing operational challenges, the Budget also proposes improved handling of rejected and returned export consignments. The government plans to deploy advanced technological solutions to accurately identify and track such shipments.
This is expected to reduce delays, minimise disputes, and lower compliance costs for exporters who often face logistical and procedural hurdles when overseas buyers reject or return goods. Faster resolution of returned consignments will also help businesses manage inventory and cash flows more efficiently.
Ease of Doing Business and Global Integration
The announcement forms part of a wider set of trade facilitation and ease-of-doing-business measures introduced in Budget 2026. By simplifying export procedures and removing structural constraints, the government aims to position India as a reliable and competitive hub for global e-commerce supply chains.
A Strategic Signal to Global Buyers
With courier export restrictions eased and technology-backed processes for returns in place, India is signalling its intent to create a seamless, exporter-friendly environment. The reforms are expected to enhance trust among international buyers and e-commerce platforms, further accelerating India’s digital export growth story.
