The mandatory Electronic Cargo Tracking System for containers transported by rail from Indian ports to Nepal is adding substantial costs to importers and consumers. Importers must pay INR 7,100 per container—INR 3,300 for inbound tracking and INR 3,800 for tracking the return of empty containers. Although introduced in 2019 to reduce trade diversion and demurrage charges, traders argue the system’s benefits remain limited, especially as the government plans to expand ECTS to road cargo.
