Export Promotion Council for Handicrafts(EPCH)

Handicrafts play a crucial role in advancing India's home decor sector and employ millions of artisans across the country.

Despite their cultural significance, traditional handicrafts face challenges due to shrinking markets, impacting the livelihoods of craftsmen. To address these issues, the Government of India established the Export Promotion Council for Handicrafts (EPCH), a nonprofit organization.

EPCH's primary mission is to enhance the competitiveness of India's handicraft exports. This is achieved through various initiatives focused on promotion, preservation, protection, and market expansion of Indian handicrafts.

Members of EPCH benefit from access to valuable information and resources aimed at improving and expanding their export opportunities. By supporting the handicraft industry, EPCH aims to sustain India's rich cultural heritage while bolstering economic growth and providing sustainable livelihoods for artisans nationwide.

 

Functions of the Export Promotion Council for Handicrafts (EPCH)

  Organizing and participating in international trade fairs dedicated to promoting handicrafts.

  Maintaining communication with government export committees and agencies at national, state, and local levels.

  Hosting commercial events at various locations across the country to facilitate business interactions.

  Enhancing brand recognition through workshops, seminars, buyer-seller forums, and open houses.

  Providing expert guidance to EPCH members on technological advancements, new product development, and improving quality and design.

  Organizing international trips for industry leaders to explore potential export markets.

  Advocating for reduced export taxes on handicraft products to facilitate international competitiveness and trade growth.

 

 

 

EPCH Registration

The Export Promotion Council for Handicrafts (EPCH) is a nonprofit organization established to enhance India's handicraft exports by providing essential infrastructure, marketing, promotion, and incentives to meet international standards and satisfy global demand for high-quality handicrafts.

Artisans aiming to expand their business and facilitate exports must become members of the Export Promotion Council for Handicrafts. This process is known as EPCH Registration. Upon successful registration, artisans receive a Registration cum Membership Certificate (RCMC).

EPCH Registration is open to individuals, Hindu undivided families, firms, associations of persons (AOPs), joint-stock companies, cooperatives, and other corporate entities, regardless of their export performance. This registration allows them to engage in the export of handicrafts and benefit from EPCH's support and network.

 

Benefits of EPCH Registration

  Access to Lucrative Markets: EPCH members can expand their exports to profitable international markets with the help of EPCH's knowledge and expertise.

  Guidance on Various Issues: The Council advises its registered members on important matters such as technological advancements, quality standards required by foreign countries, product specifications, and effective marketing strategies.

  Facilitates Business Deals: EPCH organizes delegation meetings where registered members can personally meet with potential foreign clients to discuss business opportunities. It also arranges for participation in international trade exhibitions like the Indian Handicrafts Fair.

  Mediates with Policymakers: EPCH acts as a bridge between exporters and policymakers, helping to resolve common issues and advocate for favorable policies.

  Capacity Building: The council regularly conducts workshops and seminars to educate and prepare local communities, as well as micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), for exporting their products to global markets.

  Market Monitoring and Reports: EPCH monitors market trends and compiles reports on handicrafts exports, providing valuable insights to its members.

 

 

Kinds of Membership under Export Promotion Council for Handicrafts

There are three categories of membership for EPCH Registration

  Merchant Exporter:

• Definition: Businesses that purchase handicrafts from manufacturers and sell them to clients abroad.
• EPCH Registration Requirement: Merchant exporters need EPCH Registration to facilitate their export activities.

  Manufacturer Exporter:

• Definition: Individuals or entities engaged in manufacturing handicrafts and exporting them or intending to export them.
• EPCH Registration Requirement: Manufacturer exporters must have EPCH Registration to authenticate their status and eligibility for exporting handicrafts.

 

Key Schemes Offered by EPCH to Boost Business Growth

  Marketing Access Initiative (MAI)

  Marketing Development Assistance (MAD)

  RoDTEP Scheme

  Vriksh Scheme

 

Document Requirred for EPCH Registration

  Self-attested copy of Importer Exporter Code (IEC) issued by DGFT

  Self-attested copy of MSME Registration or UDYAM certificate certifying the type of handicraft products being manufactured (if the company is a manufacturer-exporter)

  Bank details of the exporter's current bank account

  Copy of partnership deed (if the company is a partnership firm)

  Attested copy of the list of partners mentioned on the letterhead of the company (if the company is a partnership firm)

  A photocopy of certificate of incorporation (Memorandum of Article of Association) and resolution deed regarding the signing authority (if the company is a private limited or a limited liability company)

  Copy of Export House Certificate

  GST Registration details and a copy of GSTIN number

  Demand draft issued as registration fee in favour of EPCH

 

Step-by-step Procedure to get EPCH Registration Online

  Consultation: Talk to our EPCH Registration Experts for free. They'll explain what documents you need and how to apply.

  Payment and Document Submission: Select a package and pay securely online. Submit all required documents along with your payment.

  Application Processing: Our experts will handle your EPCH Registration Application. Once approved by EPCH, we'll send your certificate to your email. You'll receive regular updates on your application status.