How Does the Export Council of Handicrafts Support Exporters?

The Export Council of Handicrafts is an industry body in India that supports the promotion, development, and export of handicrafts and home décor items to international markets. It works to connect artisans and exporters with global buyers, ensures compliance with international quality standards, and provides guidance, training, and trade fair opportunities. Through these initiatives, the council strengthens India’s position in the global handicrafts trade and opens new avenues for sustainable export growth. The Indian handicrafts industry is growing steadily due to its worldwide popularity. Our culturally rich, handmade products, including embroidered clothing, hand-printed textiles, pottery, and sculptures, are in high demand. Reports suggest that the Indian handicrafts market reached USD 4,277.5 million in 2023. It is expected to grow at a CAGR of 6.9% between 2023 and 2032, reaching USD 7,817.8 million by 2032. The Export Promotion Council of Handicrafts (EPCH) has played an instrumental role in its growth. Let’s take a closer look at the role of the Export Council of Handicrafts in helping Indian handicrafts exporters expand their market reach.

What Role Does Export Council of Handicrafts Play?

The Export Promotion Council for Handicrafts is a non-profit organisation established to support and promote Indian handicraft exporters. Established in 1986-87 under the Companies Act, it is an apex body created to promote handicraft exports from India. During the initial year, 35 artisans enrolled for the council’s membership. The number increased to 8883 in 2023-24.

EPCH has a robust infrastructure and offers effective marketing tools that its members can use. The council strives to establish India’s reputation as a trusted source of high-quality handicraft products in the global market. It helps exporters meet international quality standards, follow global specifications, and comply with import guidelines specific to different countries. Among its many initiatives, it organises the Indian Handicrafts and Gifts Fair where Indian artisans can sell their products to international buyers. This special fair allows entry only to international shoppers.

When the council came into being in 1986-87, Indian handicraft products worth INR 386.57 crores were exported. Through their efforts, the artisans in India became familiar with export norms. The Export Council of Handicrafts has been helping them expand their reach in the global market. The country witnessed a rise in handicrafts exports in the following years, reaching INR 32,758.80 crores in 2023-24. Thus, the council has helped aspiring businesses establish a foothold in the international market. Between 1986-87 and 2023-24, the export of art metal ware, embroidered and crocheted goods and agarbatties and attars rose by 1.99%, 4.21%, and 37.95% respectively.

What Are the Key Initiatives Taken by EPCH to Boost International Visibility?

The Export Council of Handicrafts has taken several initiatives to guide and promote Indian exporters. Here is a look at its key initiatives that have benefited handicraft businesses:

• EPCH guides technology upgrades, enabling its members to utilise the latest tools and remain competitive in the international market. The National Centre for Photo and Picture Framing Technology and Technology Upgradation Centre at Saharanpur are among the initiatives taken in this direction.
• It provides information about the quality standards set by importing countries, enabling exporters to comply with them.
• The council guides its members with product specifications and marketing strategies, and provides useful insights to boost exports.
• It helps its members reach international clients by organising delegation meetings. It aims to create new business opportunities for the members.
• It helps exporters raise concerns, if any, with the Indian government. It also facilitates the exchange of ideas between the two.
• It monitors the industry trends and tracks the latest happenings to prepare detailed reports related to handicraft exports.
• It also helps MSMEs in starting their export journey by organising workshops to enhance their knowledge and skills.
• It organises international trade fairs for handicrafts and gift items to bridge the gap between international buyers and Indian artisans.
• Its initiatives also include the Moradabad Resource Centre, the Handicrafts Productivity Centre in Jaipur, and the International Lace Trade Centre.

How Can Exporters Apply for EPCH Membership and What Documents Are Required?

Exporters are required to submit a long list of documents to avail EPCH membership. Here is a look at these documents:

1. Importer Exporter Code (IEC)
2. GSTIN number
3. Export House Certificate
4. MSME UDYAM certificate showing the kind of handicraft products being manufactured, in case your company manufactures goods.
5. Partnership deed and list of partners on the company’s letterhead if it is a partnership firm.
6. If it’s a limited or private limited firm, then a certificate of incorporation and a resolution deed related to the signing authority.

A copy of all the above documents must be submitted. IEC and MSME Udyam certificate copies should be self-attested. Additionally, exporters must provide their business account details and a demand draft in favour of EPCH. This serves as the registration fee.

What Is the Step-by-Step Process to Obtain an RCMC from EPCH?

You must apply for Registration cum Membership Certificate (RCMC) to become a member of the Export Promotion Council of Handicrafts. It is issued as per the Foreign Trade Policy. Here is a step-by-step guide to apply for RCMC:

• Create an account on the official DGFT website.
• Log in to the site using your user ID and password.
• Go to the Services dropdown on the homepage and select e-RCMC.
• Click ‘Apply for e-RCMC’.
• Select ‘Start Fresh Application’ or ‘Proceed with Existing Application’ to complete your application.
• Next, go to ‘RCMC Details Section’ and select ‘Export Promotion Council’ and fee details and key in all the mandatory fields. Accept the terms and conditions, and then click the ‘Save and Next’ tab.
• Preview your application and click on sign up.
• Pay the RCMC application fee by proceeding to the payment gateway.

You can then check the status of your application on the dashboard.

How Does ShiprocketX Simplify Overseas Delivery for Handicraft Exporters?

The Export Council of Handicrafts offers extensive support to exporters in establishing a presence in the international market. However, you can succeed in spreading your business overseas only if your plan involves seeking assistance from a reliable shipping carrier. ShiprocketX is here to simplify your journey as you establish a foothold in various countries worldwide. Our end-to-end cross-border shipping solutions help you maximise your export opportunities.

We ship goods to over 220+ countries and territories worldwide. Whether you are looking for B2B deliveries or B2C shipping solutions, we offer both services. There are no weight restrictions for our B2B deliveries via air. So, you can ship bulk items to different parts of the world. To top it off, we provide real-time updates on your shipment’s whereabouts as it travels across the oceans.

We also offer prioritised delivery service in which your shipments are delivered within 8 days. Our team assists with documentation and facilitates smooth customs clearance.

Conclusion

The Indian handicrafts industry has witnessed substantial growth over the last three decades. And this growth can be attributed to the efforts of the Export Promotion Council of Handicrafts. EPCH has become a support system for Indian artisans seeking to establish a global presence. Since its inception, the council has taken several steps to support handicraft businesses in India and provide opportunities for their growth. It helps aspiring Indian handicrafts exporters connect with overseas buyers by showcasing their work in international fairs and providing them with the required guidance. Guidance from EPCH and assistance from ShiprocketX can help Indian exporters succeed in the global market.