Carpet Export Promotion Council (CEPC)

Introduction:

The Carpet Export Promotion Council (CEPC) is an apex body established by the Ministry of Commerce & Industry, Government of India, to promote the export of Indian carpets and textiles worldwide. The council plays a vital role in enhancing the global visibility of India’s carpet industry, facilitating trade opportunities, and providing guidance on various aspects of the carpet export business.

Constitution:

The CEPC is a non-profit organization, primarily composed of manufacturers, exporters, and industry professionals associated with the Indian carpet trade. The council is governed by a Board of Directors, with representatives from the industry, government officials, and professionals. The constitution of the CEPC outlines the organizational structure, which includes various sub-committees and working groups focused on specific areas of trade promotion, policy, and support for the carpet industry.

Legal Framework:

The CEPC operates under the framework set by the Government of India, with specific provisions outlined in the Export Promotion Council Act and other relevant trade laws. The Council adheres to the Foreign Trade Policy (FTP) and various international trade agreements. The legal structure ensures that the CEPC works within the boundaries of national and international regulations for the carpet export business.

Functions:

The primary functions of the CEPC include:

1. Promotion of Exports: Organizing international exhibitions, trade fairs, and buyer-seller meets to promote Indian carpets.
2. Market Development: Identifying and facilitating entry into new export markets, including international promotional activities.
3. Training and Skill Development: Offering training programs for carpet manufacturers, exporters, and artisans to improve their skills and enhance product quality.
4. Research & Analysis: Conducting market research, providing data on global trends, and analyzing trade regulations to support exporters.
5. Advocacy & Policy Support: Representing the carpet industry’s interests to the government, ensuring favorable policies for exporters, and addressing any issues regarding tariffs or trade barriers.
6. Certification & Standardization: Ensuring quality control, certification, and adherence to international standards for carpets.
7. Financial Assistance: Assisting with export credit and subsidies to boost exports of carpets from India.

Schemes:

Several government schemes and programs are designed to support the activities of the CEPC and its members:

1. Market Access Initiative (MAI): Supports the participation of exporters in international trade fairs and promotional events.
2. Transport Assistance: Subsidies for transportation costs to promote exports.
3. Export Promotion Schemes: Various incentives under the Foreign Trade Policy (FTP) to encourage exports, including duty-free import of raw materials for export production.

Products:

The CEPC focuses on promoting a wide variety of carpets, including:

1. Hand-knotted Carpets: These are crafted by skilled artisans, often using traditional techniques, and are the flagship product of India’s carpet export industry.
2. Hand-tufted Carpets: These are machine-made but crafted with artistic handwork, usually at a lower cost compared to hand-knotted carpets.
3. Flat Weave Carpets: Carpets without pile, woven flat, and used in various decorative styles.
4. Shaggy Carpets: Known for their thick, plush texture, these carpets are particularly popular in international markets.
5. Woolen and Silk Carpets: Both these types of carpets have a significant presence in India’s carpet exports, with high demand for their quality.

Services:

The CEPC provides several essential services to its members, including:

1. Export Consultancy: Guidance on export procedures, market entry strategies, and documentation.
2. Product Development Support: Assistance in improving the design and quality of carpets to meet international standards.
3. Legal & Trade Support: Help with legal issues related to international trade, including disputes, certifications, and compliance.
4. Workshops & Training Programs: Regular training sessions on various aspects of carpet manufacturing, design innovation, and export management.

Membership: To become a member of the CEPC, individuals or companies must meet certain criteria, including:

1. Eligibility: The applicant should be a manufacturer or exporter of carpets and allied products.
2. Documentation: Submission of necessary documents, such as the GST registration, export license, and business details.
3. Membership Benefits: Members receive access to various promotional activities, trade fairs, export incentives, and technical support services.
4. Fees: The membership usually involves a nominal fee, which varies depending on the type of membership (individual, corporate, etc.).

Website Link: http://cepc.co.in/

Conclusion: The Carpet Export Promotion Council plays a crucial role in promoting Indian carpets globally and supporting the interests of carpet manufacturers and exporters. By offering a range of services, facilitating trade opportunities, and advocating for favourable policies, CEPC strengthens India’s position as a leading exporter of high-quality carpets. Its efforts in market development, training, and policy advocacy help the sector achieve continuous growth, ensuring that the Indian carpet industry remains competitive and sustainable in the global market.