RCMC – Export Promotion Council for Handicrafts (EPCH): Empowering Indian Handicraft Exports
Introduction
The Indian handicrafts sector, known for its rich cultural heritage and unique artistic expressions, plays a vital role in the country’s export portfolio. Handicrafts not only preserve age-old traditions but also provide livelihood to millions of artisans across India. To support and promote exports from this sector, the Government of India established the Export Promotion Council for Handicrafts (EPCH).
A crucial certification for handicraft exporters is theRegistration-Cum-Membership Certificate (RCMC) issued by EPCH. This certificate acts as proof of the exporter’s registration and eligibility for government incentives, marketing support, and trade facilitation services. This blog outlines EPCH and the role of RCMC, explains why it is needed, addresses common challenges, highlights benefits, and concludes with its overall importance for exporters.
What is EPCH and RCMC?
Export Promotion Council for Handicrafts (EPCH)
Established during 1986-87 under the Companies Act, EPCH is a non-profit organization dedicated to the promotion of handicraft exports from India. EPCH aims to enhance India’s global presence by providing infrastructure support, marketing assistance, trade promotion, design and technology upgradation, and advocacy for exporters in the handicraft industry.
EPCH serves as a bridge between Indian handicraft exporters and international markets by facilitating participation in trade fairs, organizing buyer-seller meets, conducting workshops, and offering market intelligence reports.
Why is RCMC from EPCH Necessary?
Legal Mandate and Compliance
The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) mandates that exporters must hold a valid RCMC from the relevant Export Promotion Council (in this case, EPCH) to access export benefits under the Foreign Trade Policy.
Access to Export Incentives and Subsidies
Only exporters holding EPCH’s RCMC can avail financial benefits like:
- Market Access Initiative (MAI) covering airfare and stall subsidies for international exhibitions
- Market Development Assistance (MDA) for promotional activities
- Duty drawback schemes and other export facilitation incentives.
Enhanced Market Credibility
RCMC certification enhances export credibility with international buyers, banks, and government authorities, helping exporters build trust and expand their global footprint.
Trade Promotion and Support
EPCH offers RCMC holders access to key trade events such as the renowned Indian Handicrafts and Gifts Fair, international exhibitions, buyer-seller meets, and export facilitation services.
Capacity Building and Industry Development
Registered members benefit from workshops and seminars focused on design innovation, quality improvement, and export readiness for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
Registration-Cum-Membership Certificate (RCMC)
The RCMC is an official certificate that certifies membership of exporters with EPCH under the Foreign Trade Policy of India. The RCMC is mandatory for exporters to avail government export incentives and subsidies offered to handicraft exporters. It is also a gateway to participate in EPCH-organized international trade fairs and business delegations.
Benefits of RCMC and EPCH Membership
Access to Subsidized Participation in Trade Shows
EPCH members with RCMC benefit from subsidies on participation fees, stall setups, and travel expenses for major trade shows, boosting international visibility.
Export Documentation Support
EPCH assists members in obtaining important documents such as Certificates of Origin, which are critical for customs clearances and compliance with buyer requirements.
Market Intelligence and Information
Regular updates on international market trends, buyer preferences, tariff changes, and regulatory requirements help members optimize export strategies.
Networking Opportunities
Members participate in buyer-seller meets, international delegations, and collaboration forums, enabling partnerships and expanding business networks.
Advocacy and Policy Representation
EPCH represents member exporters in government policy forums to advocate for favorable export policies, regulatory simplifications, and incentives.
Training and Skill Enhancement
Workshops arranged by EPCH aim to improve artisans’ and exporters’ skills in product quality, design, packaging, and compliance with international standards.
Challenges in Obtaining RCMC from EPCH
Documentation Requirements
Exporters must furnish extensive documentation such as IEC code, GST and PAN registration, proof of export, manufacturing licenses, and MSME registrations, which can be challenging for first-time exporters.
Annual Renewal and Compliance
The RCMC is valid for a specific period and requires timely renewal. Non-compliance with renewal procedures can disrupt access to export benefits.
Eligibility Clarification
Exporters must ensure the products they export qualify as handicrafts under EPCH guidelines to avoid application rejections or delays.
Administrative Delays
Processing delays due to verification or incomplete applications pose challenges, potentially affecting exporter participation in time-sensitive trade events.
Conclusion
TheRegistration-Cum-Membership Certificate (RCMC) issued by the Export Promotion Council for Handicrafts (EPCH) is indispensable for Indian handicraft exporters seeking to leverage government incentives, global markets, and trade support services. It validates exporters’ legal status, enables participation in international trade events, and opens access to financial subsidies that boost export efficiency and competitiveness.
While exporters face procedural challenges in documentation and renewals, the comprehensive support offered by EPCH significantly mitigates these hurdles. For artisans, MSMEs, and exporters committed to expanding their global reach, obtaining and maintaining an RCMC from EPCH is a pivotal step towards sustainable growth and recognition in the international handicraft market.
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