India has implemented various export promotion schemes to support and incentivize exporters. These schemes aim to enhance competitiveness, boost exports, and facilitate market access.
Here are some key export promotion schemes in India:
1. Merchandise Exports from India Scheme (MEIS):
MEIS provides exporters with incentives in the form of duty credit scrips. These scrips can be used to offset customs duties on the import of inputs or can be traded. MEIS covers a wide range of products and sectors to encourage export diversification.
2. Export Promotion Capital Goods (EPCG) Scheme:
The EPCG scheme allows exporters to import capital goods, machinery, and equipment at a concessional customs duty rate. The condition is that exporters must fulfill export obligations to achieve a certain export-to-import ratio within a specified period.
3. Advance Authorization Scheme:
The Advance Authorization Scheme allows duty-free import of inputs, including raw materials, components, or intermediates, for the production of export goods. Exporters can avail themselves of this scheme to lower their costs and enhance competitiveness.
4. Export Oriented Unit (EOU) Scheme:
The EOU scheme allows the establishment of manufacturing units in designated zones where imported and domestically sourced goods can be used for the production of export-oriented goods. EOUs enjoy various tax benefits and simplified procedures to promote exports.
5. Special Economic Zones (SEZs):
SEZs are designated areas with specialized infrastructure and incentives for export-oriented industries. SEZ units enjoy tax benefits, simplified procedures, and infrastructure support to promote manufacturing and services exports.
6. Duty Drawback Scheme:
Under the Duty Drawback Scheme, exporters are eligible for a refund of customs duties paid on imported inputs used in the manufacture of exported goods. The objective is to neutralize the incidence of customs duties and promote competitiveness in international markets.
7. Export Promotion Councils:
India has several Export Promotion Councils (EPCs) dedicated to specific industries. These councils provide market intelligence, export-related information, trade facilitation services, and representation of exporters’ interests. EPCs play a crucial role in promoting exports and addressing sector-specific issues.
8. Market Access Initiative (MAI) and Market Development Assistance (MDA):
MAI and MDA schemes provide financial assistance to exporters for market development activities such as participation in trade fairs, buyer-seller meets, export promotion events, and market studies. These schemes aim to enhance market access for Indian exporters.
9. Trade Infrastructure for Export Scheme (TIES):
TIES provides financial assistance for the development and upgradation of export-related infrastructure such as export parks, testing laboratories, cold storage facilities, and common effluent treatment plants. The scheme aims to address infrastructure bottlenecks faced by exporters.
10. National Export Insurance Account (NEIA):
NEIA provides insurance cover to exporters to protect them against credit risks, non-payment, and commercial risks. It encourages exporters to explore new markets and offer competitive credit terms to buyers.
It’s important for exporters to thoroughly understand and comply with the specific conditions, eligibility criteria, and procedural requirements of these export promotion schemes. They should engage with relevant government agencies, export promotion councils, and trade facilitation organizations to leverage the benefits and support available under these schemes.