New Delhi: In a significant development for cross-border trade, the Department of Posts, Government of India, and JSC Russia Post have signed a Bilateral Agreement to operationalise the International Tracked Packet Service (ITPS). This partnership aims to enhance postal cooperation and support the growing volume of e-commerce trade between India and Russia.
The signing ceremony was attended by Jitendra Gupta, Director General of Postal Services, Department of Posts, and Mikhail Yurevich Volkov, Director General of JSC Russia Post. The initiative marks a major milestone in facilitating seamless international shipping for Indian exporters, particularly for low-value consignments.
Cost-Effective and Transparent Logistics Solution
The ITPS will create a trackable, cost-effective, and reliable logistics channel for e-commerce shipments between India and Russia. Key features of the service include:
- Electronic advance data transmission to streamline customs processes
- End-to-end tracking for real-time visibility of consignments
- Delivery confirmation to ensure accountability and transparency
- Enhanced security and smoother customs clearance, reducing delays
This service is poised to provide much-needed support to the growing international e-commerce ecosystem, where speed, reliability, and cost-efficiency are critical.
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Expanding Market Opportunities for Indian Products
Russia has emerged as a high-potential market for Indian goods such as:
- Health and wellness products
- Apparel and textiles
- Jewellery
- Home décor
- MSME-manufactured items
Under the agreement, Russia Post will offer preferential delivery rates, allowing India Post to provide competitive shipping tariffs. This will improve price competitiveness and market access for Indian exporters, enabling them to better serve Russian consumers.
Supporting MSMEs, Artisans, and Rural Entrepreneurs
To strengthen the participation of small businesses in international trade, the Department of Posts, in collaboration with the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC), has established 1,013 Dak Ghar Niryat Kendras (DNKs) across India.
These DNKs provide small and medium enterprises, artisans, start-ups, and rural entrepreneurs with:
- Easy access to export services
- Competitive logistics rates
- Efficient and reliable delivery timelines
A substantial share of postal exports originates from Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities, highlighting the increasing role of individual entrepreneurs and small businesses in global markets.
Strengthening Bilateral Trade and Digital Commerce
The launch of ITPS with Russia reflects the shared commitment of India and Russia to:
- Deepen bilateral trade relations
- Promote digital and e-commerce growth
- Enhance collaboration in postal and logistics services
Experts say this initiative will particularly empower MSMEs, artisans, and start-ups, helping them reach Russian consumers with affordable, reliable, and transparent shipping solutions.
The agreement is expected to not only boost India’s export footprint but also promote inclusive economic growth, supporting rural enterprises and enabling broader participation in the global e-commerce ecosystem.
