Cracking Down on Gold Smuggling: Rising Challenges and Strategies

In response to the recent hike in customs duty on gold, India's revenue intelligence and customs officers are gearing up for intensified surveillance along international borders. This move is aimed at preempting a potential spike in gold smuggling activities, according to informed officials.

The authorities are zeroing in on a multi-faceted approach to thwart the efforts of syndicates exploiting land and coastal routes, as well as organized carrier networks. Intelligence-driven actions and vigilant enforcement form the backbone of their strategy to disrupt the gold smuggling supply chain.

Despite the absence of a direct link between import duty hikes and smuggling, experts believe that increased duties often correlate with heightened grey market activities. Data indicates that during the last fiscal year, significant strides were made with 2,600 kg of gold seized and over 500 individuals arrested.

(With inputs from agencies.)