E-way bill generation rebounds, signalling supply chain revival

The issuance of electronic permits, or e-way bills, required for shipping goods within and across states—a key indicator of economic activity—rebounded in December to 112 million, up from a five-month low of 101.8 million in November, according to GSTN, the platform that processes Goods and Services Tax (GST) returns.

- Gireesh Chandra Prasad

The recovery signals a normalization in supply chain activities, following a steady climb from July to a record high of 117.2 million in October, driven by festival-season demand. The subsequent moderation in November reflected businesses pausing after the seasonal peak. Experts believe that inventory clearances could surge further as the financial year draws to a close.

Last month's e-way bill generation marked a 10% rise from November and an 18% increase compared with December 2023, though it remained below October's record.