The AEPC (Apparel Export Promotion Council) is a government organisation that promotes Indian clothing exports. AEPC aims to develop the Indian garment manufacturing textile industry in both the domestic and international markets. It is important to understand what are the benefits of registering for the Apparel EPC and objectives associated with it.
The Apparel Promotion Export Council works hard to serve its members by assisting them in increasing ready-made garment exports. The Apparel EPC engages in a variety of activities and periodically announces new schemes and projects for the benefit of its registered members. The Apparel Promotion Export Council’s main goal is to increase Indian garment exports and promote the growth of Indian garment exporters.
Objectives of Apparel EPC
The AEPC (Apparel Export Promotion Council) has a range of strategic objectives aimed at raising the apparel export sector and enhancing the benefits for its members. The key goals of AEPC include:
1. Enhancing Apparel Exports:
AEPC is dedicated to implementing effective strategies that result in a noticeable increase in the export of apparel products. Through targeted initiatives and collaborations, the council aims to expand market reach and contribute to the growth of apparel exports.
2. Skill Improvement and Quality Enhancement:
The council seeks to improve the skills of the workforce engaged in the apparel industry. By enhancing the quality of production through skill development and training, AEPC aims to elevate the standard of products offered by its members.
3. Collaboration with Government:
AEPC actively collaborates with government bodies to set ambitious export targets, devise future-oriented plans and predict economic conditions. This collaboration ensures a conducive environment for apparel exporters to thrive and contribute to the nation’s economy.
4. Financial and Technical Support:
AEPC is committed to providing valuable financial and technical support to exporters. This assistance empowers exporters to deal with challenges effectively, improve their operations and enhance the quality of their products. Informative research data is shared to enable informed decision-making.
5. Promoting Ready-Made Garments:
The council focuses on the promotion, growth and development of all types of ready-made garments (excluding leather, jute and woollen knitwear) for the purpose of export. This complete approach aims to boost the diversity and competitiveness of the apparel export collection.
Categories of Registration with Apparel EPC
In order to understand what are the benefits of registering for the Apparel EPC, it is necessary to know the categories of registration with Apparel EPC. Apparel Export Promotion Council (AEPC) offers two distinct categories for APEC Registration:
1. Registered Exporter
Under this category, exporters can register with AEPC to receive various benefits and support services. There is no specific requirement for export turnover to qualify for this category.
2. Member Exporter
To be classified as a Member Exporter, exporters must meet a certain criterion. Specifically, their aggregate garment export turnover for the three preceding financial years must exceed Rs. 1 crore. Those who fulfil this criterion can enjoy additional privileges and benefits provided by Apparel EPC.
Eligibility and Registration Process for AEPC Membership
Fur understanding what are the benefits of registering for the Apparel EPC, it is also equally important to know the specific eligibility criteria and registration process for AEPC membership:
Eligibility Criteria:
- Applicants must be engaged in the manufacturing or trade of designated garments.
- The key eligibility requirement includes being a manufacturer exporter or a merchant exporter.
- Applicants registering as individuals or sole proprietors must be at least 21 years old.
- Neither the applicants nor their partners should have a record of being declared insolvent or convicted for offenses involving misconduct or moral turpitude by a court of law.
- The applicant’s firm must have achieved an aggregate export turnover exceeding Rs. 1 crore in the preceding three years.
Registration Process:
- Application Submission: Individuals meeting the eligibility criteria need to complete an application form provided by AEPC. This form, along with necessary documents, should be submitted to AEPC offices.
- Documents Required: Applicants typically need to provide supporting documents that validate their eligibility, business activities and financial history. These documents play a vital role in the verification process.
- Age and Firm Status: For individuals or sole proprietors, age verification is essential. In addition, confirming that neither the applicant nor any partners have faced insolvency or conviction for misconduct is significant.
- Turnover Verification: The aggregate export turnover of the applicant’s firm for the past three years needs to surpass Rs. 1 crore.
- Registration cum Membership Certificate (RCMC): As a fundamental requirement for most Export Promotion Councils, including AEPC, applicants must possess an RCMC. This certificate serves as proof of AEPC membership.
What are the Benefits of Registering for the Apparel EPC in India?
Understanding what are the benefits of registering for the Apparel EPC offers better understanding across various aspects of the apparel export domain. Some of the key benefits include:
1. Market Access Initiative:
In understanding what are the benefits of registering for the Apparel EPC, first comes the securing of MAI subsidies for organising mega shows, participating in renowned international apparel fairs and arranging international Buyer Seller Meets. These subsidies directly benefit council members by reducing stall costs in such events. This initiative not only provides exposure but also aids in identifying collaboration opportunities for scaling up, technological advancements and market insights for the Textile and Apparel Industry and is therefore one of the significant benefits of registering for the Apparel EPC.
2. Trade Facilitation:
AEPC takes proactive measures to resolve export-related challenges faced by exporters at customs, Icegate, DGFT, ECGC and other relevant organisations. This ensures smoother operations and resolves issues such as risky exporters tagging, pending ROSL & RoSCTL and drawback delays, also adding as one of the significant benefits of registering for the Apparel EPC.
3. Facilitation for Risky Exporters:
AEPC addresses the concerns of exporters categorised as risky since 2019, which can result in disruptions to refunds. By collaborating closely with DGARM, AEPC guides exporters through resolution protocols, follows up with DGARM for necessary clearances and actively works on case compilation and resolution.
4. Facilitation for ATUFS:
One of the major points when discussing what are the benefits of registering for the Apparel EPC is the facilitation of ATUFS.
AEPC takes up pending TUF (Technology Upgradation Fund) cases, liaising with the Textile Commissioner’s office and Ministry of Textiles. This effort involves addressing technical and documentation issues and advocating for resolutions on significant matters such as bank sanction letters, manufacturing year discrepancies and machinery specifications.
5. Notifications Updates:
AEPC keeps its members informed about recent notifications, circulars and public notices from various authorities including DGFT, CBIC, Textile Commissioner, GST and MSME.
6. Apparel Dossier:
AEPC ensures members stay updated through a weekly Apparel dossier containing news, notifications and issues that AEPC is actively addressing. This is one of the significant benefits of registering for the Apparel EPC.
7. Apparel India Magazine:
AEPC publishes Apparel India magazine, accessible both online and offline. This publication covers national and global updates related to the textile and apparel industry, government circulars, GST updates and AEPC’s significant activities for the industry’s benefit. This forms on the important benefits of registering for the Apparel EPC.
8. Virtual Exhibition Platform:
AEPC’s Virtual Platform bridges the buyer-seller gap, offering a 24x7x365 virtual exhibition space. It includes exhibitor booths, interactive communication options, live presentations and high-security features, replicating a physical fair experience.
9. Data Bank:
AEPC regularly shares RMG export statistics in Apparel India magazine, offering insights into trends. Country-wise figures and top HS Codes are provided, helping exporters make informed decisions based on market dynamics and demand.
10. GST Facilitation:
One of the major points when discussing what are the benefits of registering for the Apparel EPC is that AEPC offers specialised guidance on intricate GST matters. By clarifying regulations, ensuring compliance and aiding in interactions with tax authorities, members can deal with the complexities of GST seamlessly, saving time and promoting adherence.
11. Seminars/Webinars & Workshops:
AEPC conducts seminars, webinars and workshops for members, facilitating engagement with industry experts. These platforms deliver invaluable insights into emerging trends, innovations and regulatory shifts, empowering exporters to stay at the forefront of industry developments.
12. Compilation of DBK / RODTEP Data:
Another major point when discussing what are the benefits of registering for the Apparel EPC is that AEPC compiles and submits data for fixation of Duty Drawback (DBK) and Remission of Duties and Taxes on Exported Products (RODTEP) rates, ensuring exporters benefit from government schemes.
13. Policy Suggestions Submission:
AEPC actively contributes suggestions for enhancing the Foreign Trade Policy (FTP) and other policies. By representing members’ collective interests, AEPC ensures policy discussions incorporate exporters’ needs, promoting a supportive regulatory environment that promotes industry growth.
14. Advisory on Labour Laws:
AEPC engages a legal advisor on labour laws, providing significant legal insights and guidance on labour and employment matters for member exporters.
15. Skill Assessment Cell:
AEPC’s Skill Assessment Cell uplifts workforce skills in Apparel/Garment, Khadi and Carpet sectors, contributing to economic growth and employment generation.
16. Man Made Fabric Cell:
AEPC’s MMF Cell focuses on MMF garment exports and collaboration opportunities for manufacturing man-made fabrics. A comprehensive compendium supports the proposed PLI scheme, enhancing India’s MMF manufacturing capabilities.
Final Thoughts
Thus, understanding what are the benefits of registering for the Apparel EPC offers a detailed overview of the role and objectives of APEC for individuals and entities involved in the apparel export industry. AEPC plays an essential role in promoting Indian clothing exports and promoting the growth of the domestic garment manufacturing textile sector. By actively pursuing strategic objectives, AEPC aims to elevate the industry and enhance the benefits for its members.
In essence, Apparel EPC’s dedication to enhancing the apparel export sector, promoting collaboration and providing valuable resources reinforces its role as a significant partner in promoting the growth and success of Indian garment exporters. Joining AEPC’s vital community equips exporters with the tools and support needed to flourish in the global market, contributing to the nation’s economic prosperity.
For more information on what are the benefits of registering for the Apparel EPC, connect with our professionals at StartupFino.
