Enhancing Transparency and Ease: Inside India’s Latest Export Policy Developments

The Indian Government has introduced a series of new initiatives designed to make the export process more transparent and simpler for exporters across the country. These developments, announced by the Ministry of Commerce & Industry, are expected to benefit especially micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and businesses with limited resources, demonstrating the country’s continued focus on promoting inclusive trade growth.

Digital Reforms in Foreign Trade

The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) has modernized and simplified the country’s foreign trade procedures through several digital reforms. The DGFT portal now enables exporters to apply and get approvals online for many Foreign Trade Policy (FTP) benefits. These include the Advance Authorisation scheme, Export Promotion Capital Goods (EPCG) scheme, and the Status Holder certification. The portal is also connected with other important government systems such as ICEGATE, GSTN, MCA, and PFMS, which helps make data validation and approvals faster and more efficient.

Enhanced Certification and Compliance

A significant update is the introduction of the self-certification mechanism for electronic Bank Realization Certificates (eBRCs). The e-Certificate of Origin (eCoO 2.0) system has also been revised and digitized. This system now provides real-time authentication and lessens manual work. Notably, the eCoO platform supports both Preferential and Non-Preferential Certificates and uses features like QR codes and Aadhaar-based e-signatures. Exporters can now connect with issuing agencies online, improving security and service delivery.

Trade Connect ePlatform: A One-Stop Solution

The introduction of the Trade Connect ePlatform marks another important step. This digital platform is designed to assist Indian exporters by providing detailed information about trade agreements, market access, and international compliance requirements. Some key features include:

• A “Tariff Explorer” tool for Free Trade Agreement (FTA) benefits.

  
  

• Country and Product Guides for market insights and compliance.

  
  

• Global e-Commerce Guide for online business opportunities.

• Information on international trade events.

  
  

• EXIM Paathshaala, offering training modules.

  
  

• “Ask an Expert” for resolving trade questions.

  
  

• “Source from India” tool to connect foreign buyers to Indian suppliers.

  
  

• A unified Certificate of Origin issuance system for exporters.

  
  

Additionally, the Jan-Sunwai facility has been created for exporters to raise grievances online and even interact live with officials through video conferencing. This system promises prompt issue resolution and maintains an audit trail for transparency.

Inclusive Measures for MSMEs and Small Exporters

Under the Foreign Trade Policy (FTP) 2023, all eligible exporters, including small, third-party, and merchant exporters, can access benefits from export promotion schemes. To further support MSMEs, application fees for schemes such as the Advance Authorisation and EPCG have been reduced for these enterprises. These steps are aimed at promoting wider participation by businesses that may otherwise face barriers due to smaller scale or limited capital.

Handholding Support Through the Niryat Bandhu Scheme

The DGFT’s Niryat Bandhu Scheme continues to empower new and small exporters by offering professional guidance, mentorship, and dedicated assistance throughout the export journey. The scheme is designed to help new exporters enter global trade smoothly, thereby contributing to India’s growing export competitiveness.

Developing Districts as Export Hubs

The Government has placed renewed focus on local areas through the Developing District as Export Hub Initiative (as part of FTP 2023). Products and services including Geographical Indication (GI) products, agricultural clusters, and toy clusters, with strong export potential are identified in each district. To coordinate support and address any obstacles, State Export Promotion Committees (SEPCs) and District Export Promotion Committees (DEPCs) have been formed at state and district levels across India. These institutional mechanisms are meant to promote exports at the grassroots and help in addressing specific bottlenecks faced by different regions.

Significance of the Developments

These government reforms are key developments for the Indian export ecosystem. The digitalization of applications, certificates, and stakeholder support unlocks new opportunities for small and large exporters alike, reducing paperwork and manual delays. By improving access, lowering compliance burdens, and encouraging direct engagement with officials, the Government is helping Indian businesses become more competitive in the global marketplace while ensuring easier, more transparent, and more efficient export processes.