In the first 100 days of the new government, the Department of Commerce (DoC) has prioritized boosting exports and simplifying processes to promote economic growth. Here are some key achievements:
1. Trade Connect e-Platform Empowers Exporters The launch of the Trade Connect e-Platform has connected over 6 lakh IEC holders with 185 Indian Mission officials and 600 Export Promotion Council members. This platform enhances the ease of doing business, particularly for small and medium enterprises (SMEs), by providing them with real-time guidance and support through digital solutions.
2. Increased Insurance Cover for MSME Exporters To further support MSMEs, the government has introduced an enhanced insurance cover, providing ₹20,000 crore in credit at lower costs, benefiting approximately 10,000 exporters. This initiative is designed to make Indian exports more competitive globally.
3. Reduced Compliance Burden via Self-Certified eBRC System The self-certified electronic Bank Realisation Certificate (eBRC) system has cut compliance costs, saving exporters ₹125 crore annually. This system simplifies processes for exporters, aligning with the government’s goal of a paperless and eco-friendly economy.
4. Launch of E-Commerce Export Hub (ECEH) The ECEH aims to revolutionize cross-border e-commerce, with projections of reaching USD 100 billion in exports by 2030. It will help SMEs, artisans, and ODOP producers access global markets more efficiently, driving economic growth, especially in rural areas.
5. Lower Transaction Costs on GeM Portal The reduction of pricing slabs on the Government e-Marketplace (GeM) portal makes it more affordable for MSMEs to participate in high-value transactions, with significant fee reductions for orders above ₹10 crore.
6. Bharat Mart in Dubai A new initiative, Bharat Mart, has been launched in Dubai to give Indian MSMEs cost-effective access to GCC, African, and CIS markets, helping to expand India’s export reach.
7. Jansunwai for Direct Communication The Jansunwai platform eliminates intermediaries by enabling direct communication between stakeholders and the Department, improving transparency and reducing administrative hurdles.
8. Strengthening Organic Exports A revamp of the National Programme of Organic Production (NPOP) is set to benefit 20 lakh farmers, boosting organic exports to over USD 1 billion by 2025-26 through improved certification standards.
9. Pradhan Mantri Cha Shramik Protsahan Yojana (PMCSPY) This initiative improves the quality of life for over 10 lakh tea garden workers in Assam and West Bengal, offering better healthcare, education, and living conditions.
10. ICEGATE Expansion to SEZs The ICEGATE portal has been expanded to non-IT/ITES SEZ units, streamlining their application processes for export benefits under the RoDTEP scheme and ensuring 24×7 support for easier trading operations.Through these initiatives, the Department of Commerce is laying the groundwork for India’s emergence as a global trade leader by 2047.