Objective
- To provide a framework for enhancing exports and sustaining economic growth
- To create a conducive environment for increasing trade and investment flows
- To diversify the export basket and markets
Features
- Introduction of the Merchandise Export from India Scheme (MEIS) to incentivize exports of specified goods
- The Service Export from India Scheme (SEIS) to incentivize export of notified services
- Easier availability of duty credit scrips to facilitate exports
- Simplification and rationalization of export procedures
- Focus on boosting exports of MSMEs
- Promotion of high value-added products for exports
- Special emphasis on improving infrastructure related to exports
- Establishment of the Trade Infrastructure for Export Scheme (TIES)
- Introduction of the Agriculture Export Policy to boost agricultural exports
- Enhancement of the e-commerce ecosystem for exports
Import and Export Policies
- Import of goods is regulated under the Foreign Trade Policy and the Customs Act, 1962
- Export of goods is regulated under the Foreign Trade Policy and the Customs Act, 1962
- Special Economic Zones (SEZs) have been established to promote exports and provide a conducive environment for manufacturing and services
- The Export Promotion Capital Goods (EPCG) scheme allows import of capital goods at zero customs duty for manufacturing and service sector exports
- The Advance Authorization Scheme allows duty-free import of inputs, which are physically incorporated in export goods
- The Duty Drawback Scheme allows exporters to claim refund of customs and excise duties paid on inputs used in manufacture of export goods
- The E-Commerce Export Incentive Scheme provides incentives for e-commerce exports
- The National Agricultural Export Policy aims to promote exports of agricultural products and enhance farmers’ income.
Rules and Regulations
- The Foreign Trade Policy lays down the rules and regulations for import and export of goods and services
- The DGFT is the nodal agency responsible for implementing the Foreign Trade Policy and issuing relevant notifications, circulars, and guidelines
- The Customs Act, 1962 and related regulations govern the import and export of goods
- The Export-Import Bank of India provides financial assistance and other services to exporters and importers
- The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) is responsible for regulating foreign exchange transactions under the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA)
Importance
- The New Foreign Trade Policy provides a framework to boost exports and promote economic growth
- It aims to increase the competitiveness of Indian exports in global markets
- It promotes diversification of export basket and markets, thereby reducing dependence on a few products and regions
- It provides incentives and simplifies procedures to encourage exports, especially for MSMEs
- It creates a conducive environment for foreign trade and investment, thereby enhancing India’s integration with the global economy.