<h1>DGFT Clarifies DEPB Benefits: Exports Before Withdrawal Eligible at Shipment Date Rates for Steel, Cement, Rice.</h1> Public notices issued in late March and early April 2008 withdrew the Duty Entitlement Passbook (DEPB) benefits for exports of primary steel items, cement, and rice. This left exporters uncertain about their entitlement to DEPB benefits for exports made before these notices. The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) has clarified that exports conducted before the withdrawal or suspension of DEPB rates for specific products will still qualify for DEPB benefits at the rates applicable on the date of shipment or export.