Now, a development in New Delhi is raising expectations. India’s Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has hinted at a full overhaul of the customs system as her next major reform priority, signalling potential relief for NRIs who want simpler, more transparent rules when carrying gold home.
Full-scale customs revamp
Speaking at the Hindustan Times Leadership Summit on Saturday, Sitharaman said the government is preparing a comprehensive redesign of customs processes to make them easier to comply with and far less intimidating. She stressed that “customs is my next big cleaning-up assignment,” placing it alongside earlier reforms in income tax and GST.
Sitharaman added that India typically aligns with standards set by the World Customs Organisation, suggesting new rules may move closer to global benchmarks. For expats, that could mean more predictable procedures at Indian airports and clearer guidelines on what can be carried without penalty.
She stated that customs duties have already been “steadily” reduced over the last two years. But items still above “optimal” duty levels will also be reviewed — a point closely watched by NRIs who hope gold-related duties and processes might be among the areas streamlined.
Ease for NRIs taking gold
While the minister did not announce specific changes to gold allowances, the direction of reform is notable for the UAE’s large Indian community. Frequent travellers say current limits and manual checks often cause confusion or stress, especially during wedding season when gold gifting peaks.
Any move toward clearer rules, lower duties, or less intrusive screening would directly benefit expats who travel home with jewellery for cultural, religious, or family reasons. Gulf News previously highlighted how NRIs believe the existing allowance does not reflect modern travel patterns — a gap the upcoming review may finally address.
The timing also matters: India’s airport traffic is rising, and UAE–India routes remain among the world’s busiest. A simplified customs system could significantly ease the movement of personal belongings, including gold, for millions of passengers each year.