India’s Finance Ministry has launched a full probe into serious corruption claims against Chennai Customs officials, sparked by a frustrated import-export firm. The move comes after Wintrack Inc., a small global trading company based in Chennai, accused officials of harassment and bribery that forced them to shut down operations in the country.
The ministry took swift action, directing the Department of Revenue to carry out a transparent investigation. A top officer will dig into the details, talking to everyone involved and reviewing all key documents. “We’re handling this with the utmost seriousness and will act quickly under the law,” the ministry said in a statement. They also highlighted recent steps to make things easier for businesses, like the Taxpayer Charter, faceless customs processes, and better ways to resolve disputes—all aimed at boosting transparency and simplifying trade in India.
Wintrack, run by Prawin Ganeshan, went public with their woes on X (formerly Twitter). They announced they’ll stop all import and export activities in India starting October 1, 2025. “For the last 45 days, Chennai Customs officials have hounded us nonstop,” the company posted. “After we called out their bribery twice this year, they hit back hard, ruining our business here. Thanks to everyone who stood by us.”
The trouble started with a shipment of personal massagers, marketed as sexual wellness products in India and abroad. Ganeshan explained on X that customs officials questioned why the charging cables weren’t listed separately on the import documents. “Every new massager needs a cable to work—it’s part of the kit,” he said. “This is the first time they’ve made an issue of it this year.” Wintrack’s post wrapped up defiantly: “We exposed bribery at Chennai Customs, faced revenge, and lost our business. Corruption won this round, but they can’t silence us.”
Chennai Customs and the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) fired back, rejecting the accusations. The CBIC, which oversees customs nationwide, called it a case of misdeclaration and wrong classification by the importer. “Chennai Customs already addressed this,” their statement read. “We’ve noted the names and screenshots shared on Twitter, and we’ll examine all facts thoroughly. If needed, we’ll take legal steps.”
This clash shines a spotlight on ongoing challenges for small businesses navigating India’s customs system, especially amid pushes for easier trade and anti-corruption drives.
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