<h1>India Advances Trade Facilitation Agreement to Boost SMEs and Simplify Border Procedures; Focus on Transparency and Environmental Safeguards.</h1> The Minister of State for Commerce and Industry discussed the Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA), highlighting its role in expediting trade processes and enhancing transparency. The TFA aims to simplify border procedures and improve trade and investment climates, benefiting domestic manufacturers, especially SMEs. It includes provisions for cooperation between customs and other authorities. India has ratified the TFA, notified its commitments, and is establishing a National Committee on Trade Facilitation to ensure coordinated implementation. Discussions also addressed protecting domestic industries and environmental concerns, with assurances of measures like anti-dumping duties and environmental safeguards.