India launches National Strategic Trade Command Centre

India has launched the National Strategic Trade Command Centre (NSTCC) in New Delhi to enhance the monitoring and governance of its international trade ecosystem. Inaugurated by Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal, the center utilizes integrated data analytics and interactive dashboards to provide policymakers with a consolidated view of trade performance, regulatory approvals, and export promotion schemes.

The platform aims to identify operational bottlenecks, track processing timelines, and analyze regional trends. Initial coverage includes Importer Exporter Codes, Advance Authorisation, the Export Promotion Capital Goods scheme, Certificates of Origin, and SCOMET licensing. SCOMET refers to the control of special chemicals, organisms, materials, equipment, and technologies, including dual-use items with both civilian and sensitive applications.

During the launch, Minister Goyal emphasized the need for expedited decision-making, specifically calling for the Inter-Ministerial Committee to meet regularly—potentially weekly—to clear backlogs of pending SCOMET applications. The initiative is expected to expand through the inclusion of additional datasets, automated alerts, and advanced analytical capabilities.