The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) plays a pivotal role in regulating and promoting India’s foreign trade policies and procedures. As a nodal agency under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, DGFT formulates and implements various policies and schemes aimed at enhancing India’s exports, facilitating imports, and promoting foreign trade relationships. One of its key functions is the issuance of Importer-Exporter Code (IEC) numbers, which are mandatory for businesses engaged in importing or exporting goods and services. Through its comprehensive online portal and regional offices across the country, DGFT provides a wide range of services and support to traders, including guidance on export-import procedures, trade policy updates, and resolution of trade-related issues.
Furthermore, DGFT administers several export promotion schemes and incentives to encourage and support Indian exporters. These schemes include the Export Promotion Capital Goods (EPCG) scheme, Merchandise Exports from India Scheme (MEIS), and the Advance Authorization scheme, among others. By providing duty exemptions, financial incentives, and other benefits to eligible exporters, DGFT aims to boost India’s export competitiveness, facilitate market diversification, and promote value addition in key sectors. Additionally, DGFT plays a crucial role in representing India’s interests in international trade negotiations, agreements, and forums, advocating for favorable trade policies and addressing trade barriers to ensure a conducive environment for Indian exporters on the global stage.
In recent years, DGFT has also embraced digitalization and automation to streamline trade processes and enhance transparency and efficiency. The introduction of online services such as the DGFT Portal and the Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) system has simplified procedures for traders, reducing paperwork, processing times, and administrative burdens. Moreover, DGFT regularly updates its policies and procedures in response to changing global trade dynamics, market demands, and regulatory requirements, ensuring that India remains agile and competitive in the international trade arena. Through its multifaceted initiatives and proactive approach, DGFT continues to play a pivotal role in driving India’s foreign trade growth and integration into the global economy.