Charter

Collection of intelligence about smuggling of contraband goods, narcotics, under-invoicing etc. through sources of India and abroad, including secret sources.
Analysis and dissemination of such intelligence to the field formations for action.
Working out of intelligence by the Directorate officers themselves to a successful conclusion, where necessary.
Keeping watch over important seizures and investigation cases.
Associating or taking over the investigations which warrant specialised handling by the Directorate.
Guiding important investigation/prosecution cases.
Functioning as the liaison authority for exchange or information among ESCAP countries for combating international smuggling and customs frauds in terms of the recommendation of the ESCAP conference.
Keeping liaison with foreign countries, Indian Missions and Enforcement agencies abroad on anti-smuggling matters.
To keep liaison with C.B.I. and through them with the INTERPOL.
To co-ordinate, direct and control anti-smuggling operations on the Indo-Nepal border.
To refer cases registered under the Customs Act to the Income Tax Department for action under the Income Tax Act.
To keep statistics of seizures and prices/rates etc. for watching trends of smuggling and supply required material to the ministry of Finance and other Ministries.
To study and suggest remedies for loopholes in law and procedures to combat smuggling.