Commerce ministry raises export exemption limit, sparking debate on EPC membership rules
The commerce ministry increased the de-minimis exemption for small export shipments from ₹10,000 to ₹3 lakh, prompting calls to reassess compulsory Export Promotion Council membership.
Under the Foreign Trade Policy, exporters must hold a Registration-cum-Membership Certificate from an Export Promotion Council to claim benefits. On September 15, the ministry lifted the exemption threshold to ₹3 lakh, easing paperwork for low-value shipments. Analysts argue that while the change helps small exporters, the requirement for mandatory EPC membership to access policy advantages should be reviewed on performance grounds rather than compulsion.
Why it matters
The rule change eases compliance for small exporters while raising questions about the fairness of mandatory EPC membership.
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