Download MBA-IB (International Business) (Master of Business Administration) 4th Semester Foreign Trade Policy Notes
UNIT I
FOREIGN TRADE AND POLICY
OBJECTIVES
To give broader understanding of the foreign trade and it`s policy. This
unit given students an understanding of the aspects that how the various theories
explain the development of foreign trade between the nations.
The main objectives of this unit are:
To analysis similarities and differences between internal and
international trade.
To provide an overview of various theories in foreign trade.
To evaluate the terms of trade between the nations.
To analysis the concept of Balance of Payment and Adjustment
Mechanism in Balance of Payment.
STRUCTURE
1.
Introduction
1.1
Meaning of International Trade
1.2
Similarities and Differences between Internal and International
Trade
1.3
Gains from International Trade
1.4
Adam Smith`s Theory of Absolute Differences in Cost
1.5
David Ricardo`s Theory of Comparative Cost
1.6
Haberler`s Theory of Opportunity Cost in International Trade
1.7
Heckscher-Ohlin Theory or Modern Theory of International
Trade
1.8
Terms of Trade
1.9
International Trade in Services
1
1.10
Meanings of Balance of Payment
1.11
Structure of Balance of Payment
1.12
Balance of Payments Disequilibrium
1.13
Adjustment Mechanism in balance of Payments Account
1.14
Summary
1.15
Self-Assessment Questions
1. Introduction:-
The international trade has been growing faster than world output
indicates that the international market is expanding faster than the domestic
markets. There are indeed many Indian firms too whose foreign business is gro
wing faster than the domestic business. Business, in fact, is increasingly
becoming international or global in its competitive environment, orientation,
content and strategic intent. This is manifested/ necessitated/ facilitated by the
following facts: (a) The Competitive business Environment (b)Globalisation of
management (c) The universal liberlisation Policy by member countries.
Table - 1 Growth of World Merchandise Exports
Value of merchandise exports
Year
(in billions of US $)
1950
55
1960
113
1970
280
1980
1846
1990
3311
2000
6350
2002
6272
2
Table-1 shows the growth of world merchandise exports. The table
indicates that during 1950-60, the value of world exports more than double. In
the next decade it increased nearly 2 ? times. During the 1970s, the value of the
world exports increased by about 5 ? times. Worldwide inflation, particularly
the successive hikes in oil prices, significantly contributed to this unprecedented
sharp increase in the value of world exports. During 1980-90, the value of world
exports increased by 80 per cent. Between 1990 and 2000, it increased by over
90 per cent. In fact, exports of developing countries have been increasing faster
than those of the developed.
Historically, trade growth consistently outpaced overall economic
growth for at least 250 years, except for a comparatively brief period from 1913
to 1950 characterised by heavy protectionism which was almost a by-product of
the two World Wars. Between 1720 and 1913, trade growth was about one-and-
a-half times the GDP growth. Slow GDP growth between 1913 and 1950 - the
period with the lowest average economic growth rate since 1820 ? was
accompanied by even slower trade growth, as war and protectionism
undermined international trade. This period was also plagued by the great
depression.
The Second half of the twentieth century has seen trade expand
substantially faster than output. In the last two decades of the twentieth century,
world trade has grown twice as fast as world real GDP (6 per cent versus 3 per
cent).
That trade has been growing faster than world output means that a
growing proportion of the national output is traded internationally. The foreign
trade-GDP ratio (i.e., the value of the exports expressed as a percentage of the
3
value of GDP) generally rises with economic development. This ratio has been
generally high for the economically advanced countries when compared with
that of the less developed countries. However, by the beginning of the 1990s, the
developing countries overtook the developed countries in the trade-GDP ratio
and today it is substantially high for developing countries over the developed
ones. There are some extreme cases like Singapore and Hong Kong with
exceptionally high foreign trade-GDP ratio of well over 200 per cent.
Because of the faster trade growth, by the beginning of the 1990s, the
developing countries overtook the developed countries in the trade-GDP ratio
and today it is substantially high for developing countries over the developed
ones. In 2001, the trade-GDP ratio was 38 per cent for high income economies
and 49 per cent for the developing countries. The developing countries, thus, are
much more integrated than the developed ones with the global economy by
trade. Among he developing countries, it was 51 per cent for middle income
economies and 39 per cent for low income economies.
India presented an interesting case. There was near stagnation in its
foreign trade-GDP ratio for about four decades since the commencement of
development planning. During this period it hovered around 15 per cent. The
inward looking economic policy, import compression and very slow progress on
the export front were responsible for this. Since the economic liberalization,
ushered in 1991, there has, however, been an increase in India`s foreign trade-
GDP ratio ? it is about 20 per cent now. This unit concentrate on the main
dimension of foreign trade and policy namely various trade theories, Terms of
Trade, Balance of Payments and Adjustment Mechanism in Payments.
4
1.1 Meanings of International Trade:-
Internal trade or domestic trade refers to the exchange of goods and
services between the buyers and sellers within the political boundaries of the
same country. It may be carried on either as a wholesale trade or a retail trade.
External trade or international trade, on the other hand, is the trade between
different countries i.e. it extends beyond the political boundaries of the countries
engaged in it. In other words, it is the trade between two countries. Hence, it is
also known as foreign trade.
The need for international trade was not so compelling in those days.
Trading with nations beyond the seas was not, however unknown to ancient
Indians. Evidences about our international trade are found in the ancient
literatures of our country particularly in our Sangam Literatures. There was a
regular Trade Route across the seas to the distant Jawa and Sumatra islands in
the east and up to the Arabian Peninsula in the west. But the volume of such
trade was insignificant and continued to remain so tight through the middle ages
and up to the advent of the British rule in India. It is only after the establishment
of the British rule that India`s foreign trade took a definite shape.
International trade on large scale has become a phenomenon of the 20th
century especially after the Second World War. There is practically no country
today, which is functioning as a closed system. Even socialist countries like
Russia and China are now taking concrete steps to capture foreign markets for
the products produced in their country. International trade, thus, has become as
essential ingredient of the normal economic life of any country. In terms of
economic development, international trade is a potentially effective engine of
growth.
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1.2 Similarities and Differences between Internal and International Trade:-
In this section similarities and differences between the internal and
international trade are focused. The general procedure, mechanism and
operations are similar to both internal trade and international trade. The
following are the basic similarities between the two.
1. Satisfaction of Consumer: Both in domestic trade and in international
trade, success depends upon effectively satisfying the basic requirements
of the consumers.
2. Goodwill Creation: It is necessary to build goodwill both in the
domestic market as well as in the international market. If a firm is able to
develop goodwill of the consumers, its task will be much simpler than
the one, which is not able to build up its own reputation. In both the
cases, the seller should take all positive measures to gain the confidence
of the consumers in his product.
3. Market Research: The marketing programme should be formulated
after a careful market research and survey. This proposition shall hold
good in both the cases. Failure to assess the target market shall
ultimately bring failure in the task of marketing.
4. Product Planning and Development: Research and development with a
view to product improvement and adaptation is necessary in both internal
and international trade. Particularly. The marketer should keep a constant
watch over the market situation and the changes occurring in the
consumer`s tastes and the preferences and develop or modify his product
to suit the needs of his customers.
6
However, there are certain special features, which differentiate internal
trade from international trade. They are explained as following manner:
1. Demand and Supply: Demand and supply cannot work out their full
effects where foreign trade is concerned. Where as such factors can work
out their full efforts in the case of internal trade.
2. Physical Obstacle to Commerce: Where international trade is carried
on, a far greater degree of inequality between conditions of production in
different countries is necessary to stimulate trade when the countries are
widely separated than when they are adjoining.
3. Artificial Barriers to Trade: The natural difficulties may be increased
by artificial barriers to trade, either through prohibitive laws as in war
time of through customs duties or protective tariffs in the context of
international trade.
4. Obstacles to Migration of Labour: Serious obstacles to the migration
of labour from country to country such as language differences are often
prohibitive, while feelings of patriotism help to keep men in their own
country. According to Briggs For every man who will so change his
habits as to go to work abroad, there are a hundred who will move from
district to district within a country. Even, though a relatively small
migration is necessary to equalise the conditions in two countries
neighbouring states may persist for generations is standards of life which
are markedly different.
5. Obstacles of Mobility of Capital: Men who refuse to leave their own
land may invest capital abroad, but a home investment is usually
preferred to a foreign. A foreign loan must offer a much higher rate of
interest than a home loan. Not only is there a real risk of loss of interest
7
and even capital, but an investor feels a sense of insecurity when money
is invested abroad.
6. Differences in Economic Environment from country to country:
Different countries have different facilities in carrying out their
productive activities. Differences in system of national and local
taxation, regulations for health, sanitation, factory organisation,
education and insurance, policy regarding the transport and public
utilities, laws relating to industrial combinations and trade, etc., do exist
as between countries. These differences bring about a difference in the
costs of production between them.
7. Currency differences are still more important because of the fact that
exchange is thereby hampered. For instance, if an Indian manufacturer
wishes to sell goods in the U.S.A or English, he must know the value of
the U.S.A or England currency units in terms of Indian money. Apart
form this, each country is under the control of a separate central bank,
each following a separate monetary policy which may greatly affect the
foreign trade of the country.
8. The geographical and climatic conditions may give rise to territorial
division of labour and localization of industries. Some countries may
have natural resources is abundance such as iron ore, coal, etc., whereas
in some other countries climatic conditions give advantages to them.
9. Long-distance: International trade is predominantly long-distance. This
may affect the transport costs and the mobility of the different factors of
production.
10. Preference: Preference for home and the prejudice against foreigners
remain as one of the major factors that would explain as to why the rates
of earning of the different of equal efficiency would not be equalized
between different countries.
8
1.3 Gains from International Trade:-
In this section the various gains of international trade can be listed as
follows:
1. International Specialisation: International trade enables to specialize
in the production of those goods in which each country has special advantages.
Each country or region is endowed with certain special facilities in the form of
natural resources, capital and equipment and efficiency of human powder. Some
countries are rich in minerals and in hydroelectric power. Some are blessed with
extensive land but have very little population. Some others possess advanced
techniques of manufacturing, a very efficient and hard working populations and
plenty of capital equipment. In the absence of trade, every country will be forced
to produce all types of goods, even those for which they have no facilities for
production, International trade, on the other hand, will enable each country to
specialize in the commodities in which it has absolute or comparative
advantages. Thus, international trade brings about international specialisation
and also all other advantages associated with such specialization.
2. Increased Production and Higher Standard of Living: It is well
known that specialization leads to the following:
1. Best utilization of the available resources.
2. Concentration on the production of those goods in which there are
advantages.
3. Saving of time and energy in production and perfecting of skills in
production.
4. Inventing and using new techniques of production.
9
All these indicate one basis advantage viz., increased production.
Increased production will also mean higher standard of living for people in both
the countries. Thus, due to international trade there is a gain for both the
countries.
3. Availability of Scarce Materials: International trade is the only
method by which a country can supplement its storage of resources or certain
essential materials. There is no country in the world including the U.S.A and the
U.K, which has all the resources it requires. At the same time, there are some
countries like Indonesia, which have been blessed by nature with some rare
materials like rubber and tin. International trade ensures equal access to raw
materials for all countries.
4. Equalisation of Prices between Countries: An important gain of
international trade or the effect of it is the tendency of internationally traded
goods to have the same price everywhere. A commodity is cheap or costly
depending upon its supply. It will be cheap in a country where it is produced
with excessive supply of some essential factors; it will be expensive in that
country where it cannot be produced or where it can be produced only at a
higher cost. Through international trade, supply is increased in the importing
country and thereby the price is reduced. In this way there is a tendency for
equalisation of prices of all internationally traded goods.
5. Evolution of Modern Industrial Society: The modern industrial
society is based on extensive specialization and large-scale production. Both are
based on the size of the market. The larger and more extensive the market for
the products, the greater is the degree of specialization and large-scale
production. It is for this reason Adam smith started that the division of the
10
labour is limited by the extent of the market. It is through international trade that
the markets for products have been expanded to cover the entire world. Hence it
is perfectly true to say that the modern industrial society could not have been
developed in the absence of international trade.
1.4 Adam Smiths Theory of Absolute Differences in Cost:-
Adam Smith strongly opposed the mercantilism and advocated cause of
free trade. He argued that free trade gives the advantage of division of labour
and specialization in the international trade. It is the central point of absolute
cost advantage theory. Adam Smith says that trade between two nations is based
on absolute advantage. When one nation is more efficient than another in the
production of one commodity but is less efficient than the other nation in
producing a second commodity, then both nations can gain by each specializing
in the production of its absolute advantage and exchanging part of its output
with the other nation for the commodity of its absolute disadvantage. This
process helps in utilizing the resources in the most efficient way and the output
of both products will rise. Such an increase in the output measures the gains
from specialization in production available to be shared between the two nations
through trade.
Let us take an example. Country A is efficient in producing product X
but inefficient in producing product Y whereas country B is efficient in
production of product Y but inefficient in producing product X. Hence country
A has an absolute advantage over country B in the production of product X but
as absolute disadvantage in the production of Y. This position is just opposite
for country B. Under these circumstances, both countries would gain if each
specialized in the production of product of its absolute advantage and traded
11
with the other country. As a result both the products would be produced and
consumed in more quantities and both the nations would benefit.
In this respect, nations behave like an individual who produce only that
commodity which he can produce most efficiently and exchanges part of his
commodity for other commodities he needs. This way, total output and welfare
of the individuals are maximized. From the above discussion, it is clear that
though mercantilists believed that one nation could benefit only at the expense
of another nation Adam Smith believed that all nations would gain from free
trade and strongly advocated a policy of laissez-faire i.e. free trade.
Illustration of Absolute Advantage
We shall now look at a numerical example of absolute advantage.
Suppose one hour of labour produces five units of product X in India but only
tow units in Srilanka. On the other hand, one hour of labour produces six units
of product Y in Srilanka but only 3 units in India. It is clearly expressed in
Table-2. It is clear from the above illustration that India is more efficient in the
production of product X than Srilanka and Srilanka is more efficient or has an
absolute advantage over India in the production of product Y. Hence India
would specialize in the production of X and exchange part of if for product Y of
Srilanka and vice versa.
Table ? 2 Absolute Advantage
No. of Units Produced
Product
per Labour Hour
Domestic
India
Srilanka
Exchange Ratio
X
5
2
5 : 2
Y
3
6
3 : 6 or 1 : 2
12
Criticisms of Adam Smiths Theory
Simple theory of absolute cost advantage is based on labour theory of
value which is unrealistic. It is based on perfectly mobile, homogeneous units of
labour between different lines of production. It cannot explain how trade takes
place even when one of the trading countries does not have absolute cost
advantage in both the commodities compared to the other country. This was
taken up by David Ricardo who gave the principle of comparative cost
advantage as the basis for trade.
1.5 David Ricardos Theory of Comparative Cost:-
Comparative cost advantage theory of international trade was developed
by the British economics in the early 19th century. In the year 1817 David
Ricardo published his Political Economy and Taxation` in which he presented
the Law of Comparative cost Advantage. As in the absolute cost advantage
theory, this theory also says that international trade is solely due to differences
in the productivity of labour in different countries. Absolute cost advantage
theory can explain only a very small part of world trade such as trade between
tropical zone and temperate zone or between developed countries and
developing countries.
Most of the world trade is between developed countries that are similar
with respect to their resources and development which is not explained by
absolute cost advantage. The basis for such trade can be explained by the law of
comparative advantage. In the following subsection, assumptions and
illustrations of Ricardian Theory is explained.
13
Assumption of the Ricardian Theory
We can begin the analysis by listing the number of assumptions required
to build the theory
1. Each country has a fixed endowment of resources and all units of each
particular resource are identical.
2. The factors of production are perfectly mobile between alternative
productions within a country. This assumption implies that the prices of
factors of production are also the same among alternative uses.
3. Factors of production are completely immobile between countries.
4. Labour theory of value is employed in the model. The relative value of a
commodity is measured solely by its relative labour content.
5. Countries use fixed technology though there may be different
technologies in different countries.
6. The simple model assumes that production is under constant cost
conditions regardless of the quantity produced. Hence the supply curve
for any goods is horizontal.
7. There is full employment in the macro-economy.
8. The economy is characterized by perfect competition in the product and
market.
9. There is no governmental intervention in the form of restriction to free
trade.
10. In the basic model, transport costs are zero.
11. It is a two-country, two-commodity model.
Ricardian theory can be explained using an example. Let us suppose that
there are two countries A and B producing cloth and wine. Table-3 gives labour
14
hours required for the production of one unit of two commodities in the two
countries.
Table ? 3 Illustration of Comparative Cost Advantage
Country
Cloth
Wine
Price Ratios
Country A 1 hour per unit
3 hours per unit 1 unit of wine : 3 units of cloth
Country B 2 hours per unit 4 hours per unit 1 unit of wine : 2 units of cloth
Table-3 shows that country A has absolute cost advantage in the
production of both the commodities. This is shown by lesser labour hours
required in the production of cloth and wine which is 1 hour per unit of cloth
and 3 hours per unit of wine. This is lesser than 2 hours per unit of cloth and 4
hours per unit of wine as required in country B. Even then trade between the two
countries can be mutually advantageous so long as the difference in comparative
advantage exists between the productions of two commodities. The example
shows that country A is twice as productive as country B in cloth production
whereas in wine production it is only 4/3 times as productive as the country B.
Hence country A has higher comparative advantage in cloth production. Country
B has comparative advantage in wine because its relative inefficiency is lesser in
wine. It is half as productive in cloth while in wine the difference in labour
productivity is only 1/3 minus 1/4, which is much less than ?
International trade is mutually profitable even when one of the countries
can produce every commodity more cheaply than the other. Each country should
specialize in the product in which it has a comparative advantage that is greatest
relative efficiency. When trade takes place between the two countries, the terms
15
of trade will be within the limits set by the internal price ratio before trade. For
both countries to gain, the terms of trade should be somewhere between the two
countries internal price ratios before trade.
Country A gains by getting more than one unit of wine for every 3 units
of cloth and country B gains by getting something more than 2 units of cloth for
every one unit of wine. The actual terms of trade will depend upon comparative
strength of elasticity of demand of each country for the others product.
Illustration of Ricardian Theory with Production Possibility Frontiers
Production Possibility Frontier (PPF) reflects all combination of the two
products that the country can produce under certain conditions. These conditions
are:
1. The total resources are finite and known.
2. The resources are fully employed.
3. The technology is given.
4. The production is economically efficient, that is with the least cost
combination of inputs.
5. The costs are constant implying opportunity cost is the same at various
level of production. PPF is hence a straight line whose slope is given by
opportunity cost of one product in terms of the other.
Country As resources are given at 18,000 labour hours with price ratio of 1
unit wine : 3 units of cloth. Country A can produce either 18,000 units of cloth
and 0 units of wine or 6,000 units of wine and 0 units of cloth.
16
Production Possibility Frontier for Country A
) 18
Units
16
CPF
000
( 14
PPF
h
lot
C 12
10
8
6
4
2
2
4
6
8
Wine (000 units)
Country A
Units of cloth
Units of wine
18,000
0
12,000
2,000
9,000
3,000
6,000
4,000
3,000
5,000
0
6,000
17
Country B has resource constraint to the extent of 32,000 labour hours and the
price ratio is 1 unit of wine : 2 units of cloth. It can produce 16,000 units of cloth
and 0 units of wine or 8,000 units of wine and 0 unit of cloth
Production Possibility Frontier for Country B
)
18
s
unit
16
000
( 14
h
PPF
lot
C 12
CPF
10
8
6
4
2
2
4
6
8
wine (000 Units)
The extent to which the citizens of the country can consume in aggregate
is given by the consumption possibility frontier. When the countries do not
involve in trade they can consume what are produced in the country. Therefore
the consumption possibility frontier overlies the production possibility frontier.
When the countries are exposed to international trade, country A can specialize
in the production of cloth and export it for wine at the rate of say 1 unit of wine :
18
2.5 units of cloth which means it will get more than 1 unit of wine for 3 units of
cloth that it has to give. This expands its consumption possibility frontier
beyond its production possibility frontier. Country B can specialize in the
production of wine and exchange 1 unit of wine for something more than 2 units
of cloth that it gets internally.
Country B
Units of cloth
Units of wine
16,000
0
14,000
1,000
12,000
2,000
10,000
3,000
8,000
4,000
6,000
5,000
4,000
6,000
2000
7,000
0
8,000
Under the assumed trade price ratio of 1 : 2.5 between wine and cloth,
the toral gain is 400 units of wine for country A and 3,000 units of cloth for
country B. The gain for individual countries will differ depending upon the trade
price ratio. However, the point remains that both the countries gain from trade.
Gains from Trade with Terms of Trade
19
(After trade price ratio 1 wine : 2.5 cloth)
Cloth (Units)
Wine (Units)
Country A
Before trade
Production
12,000
2,000
Consumption
12,000
2,000
After trade
Production
18,000
0
Consumption
12,000
2,400
Country B
Before trade
Production
12,000
2,000
Consumption
12,000
2,000
After trade
Production
0
8,000
Consumption
15,000
2,000
Evaluation
Evaluation of the theory of comparative advantage can be made on two
ground-one with regard to the assumptions made by the model and the other
with respect to empirical evidence available in support of the theory.
Criticisms of the Assumptions
20
1. Two ? Two model: Ricardian theory of comparative advantage is based
on the assumptions of two commodities and two countries. This is not a
serious limitation and is made purely for simplifying the exposition of
the theory. The principle behind the theory holds good even when more
than two countries and more than two commodities are involved.
However generalizing the analysis to cover many countries and many
commodities at the same will make the treatment cumbersome and
difficult.
2. Constant costs: Assumption regarding constat cost conditions will lead
to complete specialization. When this is released to consider increasing
cost conditions, the principle of comparative advantage may not lead to
complete specialization but to a situation of partial specialization. In that
case countries will specialize in the commodity in which they have a
comparative advantage but nevertheless will produce the other
commodity also.
3. No transport cost: Absense of transport cost in determining
comparative advantage is again not a crucial assumption. Even when this
assumption is released the theory will hold good. The costs can be
redefined to include transport cost and comparative advantage can be
assessed on the basis of such costs. Of course this will reduce the scope
for the presence of comparative advantage in many commodities for
many countries and this explains why every country has a lot of non-
traded commodities.
4. Trade Restrictions: Though in the real world absence of government
intervention in the form of protective tariff on quota is hard to find, such
restrictions definitely reduce scope for free trade on the basis of
comparative advantage.
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5. Labour theory of value: Ricardian theory is basically criticized for one
main reason-that it is based on labour theory of value. This limitation has
been removed by later theories of international trade. For example,
Haberier uses the concept of opportunity cost and shows how difference
in opportunity cost in production between countries forms the basis of
international trade.
6. Emphasis on supply: Ricardian theory clearly shows that free trade
results in mutual benefit for the trading countries. However, it does not
show the exact terms of trade between the two commodities traded
which will determine the extent of the respective gains from trade.
7. Changes in tastes and differences: Ricardian theory does not explain
the possibility of trade occurring because of differences in tastes and
preferences between people in two countries
1.6 Haberlers Theory of Opportunity Cost in International Trade:-
Professor Gottfried Haberier propounded the opportunity cost theory in
1993. According to the opportunity cost theory, the cost of the commodity is the
amount of the second commodity that must be given up to release just enough
resources to produce one additional unit of the first commodity. Like
comparative cost theory, here assumptions like labour is the only factor of
production, labour is homogeneous, or cost of commodity depends on its labour
content only etc. are not made. As a result, the nation with the lower opportunity
cost in the production of commodity has a comparative advantage in that
commodity (i.e. comparative disadvantage in the second commodity). Thus the
exchange ratio between the two commodities is expressed in terms of their
opportunity costs.
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Assumptions of Opportunity Cost Theory
Haberler makes the following assumptions for his theory.
1. There are only two nations.
2. There are only two commodities in both the nations.
3. There are only two factors of production such as labour and capital in
both the nations.
4. There is perfect competition in both the factor and commodity markets.
5. The price of each commodity equals its marginal money costs.
6. In each employment, the price of each factor equals its marginal value
productivity.
7. Supply of each factor is fixed.
8. In each country there is full employment.
9. No change in technology.
10. Factors are not mobile between two countries.
11. Within countries factors are totally mobile.
12. There is free and unrestricted trade between the two countries.
Haberier demonstrated his theory by constructing a simple diagram that
is called Production Possibility Frontier which shows the trade-offs that an
economy faces between producing any two products. The community can
produce either one of the goods or some combination of the two. The curve
shows the additional amount of one good that can be obtained by foregoing a
particular quantity of the other.
Illustration of Opportunity Cost Using PPF
23
Good X2
PPF PPF*
O
Good X
1
We have drawn two production possibility frontiers-one linear
Production possibility frontier, PPF and the other non-linear production
possibility frontier, PPF* which is concave. The slope of any production
possibility frontier is the opportunity cost of X1 in terms of X2. In the linear case
the slope is constant. In case of concave production possibility frontier, the
opportunity cost changes as we change the combinations of X1 and X2. The
concave curve, PPF* shows that the more that is produced of X1 the more and
more we have to give up of X2. In other words, opportunity cost of X1 in terms
of X2 increases.
Opportunity Cost
The opportunity cost is defined in terms of the alternative use of the
resources. The minimum amount of Good X which has to be given up for
24
producing an additional unit of Good Y is called the opportunity cost of Good Y
in that country.
Table ? 4 Labour Requirements per Unit of Output
Country A
Country B
Commodity X
4
6
Commodity Y
2
12
The concept of opportunity cost is explained with hypothetical figures in
Table-4. In country A labour coefficients for commodity X and Commodity Y
are 4 and 2 respectively. In country B the corresponding figures are 6 and 12.
How many units of commodity X should country A give up in order to produce
one more and of commodity Y? It is half a unit of X. This is the opportunity cost
of producing Y in terms of X in country A. Compare this with the position in
country B. How many units of X should country B give up in order to produce
one more unit of Y? The answer is 2 units. Hence the opportunity cost of
producing Y in terms of X in country B is 2.
It should be noted here that opportunity cost of X in terms of Y is the
reciprocal of opportunity cost of Y in terms of X. For example, in country A
opportunity cost of X in terms of Y is 2 and in country B the opportunity cost of
X in terms of Y is ?.
Comparative Cost Defined in Terms of Opportunity Costs
25
It follows that country A has comparative advantage in the production of
Y, because opportunity cost of Y in terms of X is lower in country A than in
country B. On the other hand, country B has a comparative advantage in the
production of X the opportunity cost of X in terms of Y (2 ? ?) is lower in
country B than in country A. Once comparative advantage is defined in terms of
opportunity cost, It makes no difference whether commodities are actually
produced by labour alone. Thus classical conclusion is saved. Hence opportunity
cost theory is useful to strengthen Ricardian conclusions.
Critical Appraisal
The critical appraisal of Haberler`s opportunity cost theory can be
discussed under two heads namely,
1. Superiority over comparative cost theory, and
2. Criticisms.
1. Superiority over Comparative Cost Theory
Haberler`s opportunity cost theory is regarded as superior to the
comparative cost theory of international trade formulated by the classical
economists like Adam Smith and David Ricardo. The arguments put for the
superiority are summarized below:
1. Dispenses with the Unrealistic Assumption of Labour Theory of
Value: The classical theory is based on the unrealistic assumption of labour
theory of value. But Haberler`s opportunity cost theory dispenses with such
unrealistic assumption and is more realistic.
26
2. Analyses the Pre-trade and Post-trade situations Completely: The
opportunity cost theory analyses pre-trade post-trade situations under constant,
increasing and decreasing opportunity costs, whereas the comparative cost
theory is based on the constant cost of production within the country with
comparative advantage and disadvantage between the two countries. Hence,
Haberler`s opportunity cost theory is considered to be more realistic over the
classical theory.
3. Highlights the Importance of Factor Substitution: The opportunity
cost theory highlights the importance of factor substitution in trade theory. It is
vital in the production process especially for a growing economy.
4. Facilitates the Easy Measurement of Opportunity Cost: The
opportunity cost can be measured easily.
5. Explains the Time, Reason etc. about Trade: The opportunity cost
theory explains why trade takes place or when it should take place, showing how
the gains shared between the countries etc.
6. Explain about the Complete Specialisation: It explains when
complete specialization is possible and when it is not possible etc.
2. Criticisms
27
Haberler`s opportunity cost theory is also not free from criticisms. It has
been vehemently criticized by Jacob Viner in his Studies in the Theory of
International Trade (1937). Some of the important criticisms are listed down
below:
1. Inferior as a Tool of Welfare Evaluation: Jacob Viner says that
opportunity cost approach is inferior as a tool of welfare analysis when
compared to classical real cost approach. Further he says that the doctrine of
opportunity cost fails to measure real costs in the form of Sacrifices or
Disutilities.
2. Fails to consider Changes in Factor Supplies: Viner further
criticizes that the production possibility curve of opportunity cost theory do not
consider changes in the factor supplies.
3. Fails to consider Preferences for Leisure against Income: Viner
also criticizes the opportunity costs theory on the ground that the production
possibility curve does not take into account the preference for leisure against
income.
4. Unrealistic Assumptions: Haberier`s opportunity cost theory is based
on many assumption like two countries, two commodities, two factors, perfect
competition, perfect factor market, full employment, no technical change etc.
All these assumptions are unrealistic because they do not hold in the real word.
1.7 Heckscher-Ohlins Theory or Modern Theory of International Trade:-
Brtil Ohlin criticized classical theory of international trade. He was
discounted with David Ricardo`s comparative cost theory. He argued that David
28
Ricardo`s comparative and theory is incomplete because David Ricardo fails to
explain how the comparative cost difference takes place. He also accepts that the
comparative cost difference is the basis for international trade.
So he tried to explain the reason of comparative cost difference through his
theory known as General Equilibrim theory. It is otherwise known as Modern
theory of International Trade.
According to the Heckscher-ohlin theory the main determinant of pattern
of production, specialisation and trade among regions is the relative availability
of factor endowments and factor prices. Different regions/countries have
different factor endowments and factor prices. Some countries have plenty of
capital whereas others have plenty of labour. Heckscher-ohlin theory states
Countries which are rich in labour will export labour intensive goods and
countries which have plenty of capital will export capital-intensive goods.
Ohlin says that the immediate reason for international trade is always that some
goods can be purchased more cheaply from other regions. While in the same
region their production is not possible due to high prices. In other words, the
main reason for trade between regions is the difference in the prices of goods
based on relative factor endowments and factor prices.
Assumptions of Heckscher-Ohlin Theory
The Heckscher-Ohlin theory makes the following assumption:
1. There are two countries, say A and B.
2. There are two commodities, say X and Y.
3. There are two factors of production such as labour and capital.
29
4. There is perfect competition in both the commodity as well as factor
markets.
5. Country A is labour-abundant and B is capital-rich.
6. There is full employment of resources.
7. There is perfect mobility of factors within the country but between
countries they are immobile.
8. There is no change in technology i.e. both the countries use the same
technology.
9. The technique used for the production of each commodity is same in
both the countries whereas the technique for different commodities is
different.
10. There are no transportation costs.
11. There is free and unrestricted trade between the two countries.
12. There are constant returns to the scale.
13. Demand pattern, tastes, preferences etc. of consumers are same in both
the countries.
14. International transactions are confined only to commodity trade.
15. There is partial specialization. That is neither country specializes in the
production of one commodity.
Explanation of Heckscher-Ohlin Theory
With the above stated assumptions, Heckscher and Ohlin contended that
the immediate cause of international trade is the difference in relative
commodity price caused by differences in relative demand and supply of factors
on account of differences in factor endowments between the two countries.
Basically, the relative scarcity of factors i.e. the shortage of supply in relation to
demand is essential for trade between two regions. Normally commodities that
30
require large quantities of scarce factors are imported because their prices are
high whereas commodities, which use abundant factors, are exported because
their prices are less.
The Heckscher-Ohlin theory states that a country will specialize in the
production and export of goods whose production requires a relatively large
amount of the factor with which the country is relatively well endowed. In the
Heckcher-Ohlin model, factors of production are regarded as scarce or abundant
in relative terms and not in absolute terms. That is, one factor is regarded as
scarce or abundant in relation to the quantum of other factors. Hence, it is quite
possible that even if a country has more capital, in absolute terms, than other
countries, it could be poor in capital. A country can be regarded as richly
endowed with capital only if the ratio of capital to other factors is higher when
compared to other countries.
(i) In country A:
Supply of labour
=
25 units
Supply of Capital
=
20 units
Capital-labour ratio
=
0.8
(ii) In country B:
Supply of labour
=
12 units
Supply of capital
=
15 units
Capital-labour ratio
=
1.25
In the above example, even though country A has more capital in
absolute terms, country B is more richly endowed with capital because the ratio
of capital to labour in country A (0.8) is less than in country B (1.25).
31
Pattern of Trade under Heckscher-Ohlin Model
Capital intensive goods
Capital
Labour
abundant
abundant
country
country
Labour intensive goods
Evaluation of Factor Endowment Theory
1. The Heckscher-Ohlin theory rightly points out that the immediate basis
of international trade is the difference in the final price of a commodity
between countries, although the actual basis of ultimate cause of trade is
comparative cost difference in production. Thus, the Heckscher-Ohlin
theory provides a more comprehensive and satisfactory explanation for
the existence of international trade.
2. The Heckscher-Ohlin theory is superior to the comparative cost theory in
another respect. The Ricardian theory points out that comparative cost
difference is the basis of international trade, but it does not explain the
reasons for the existence of comparative cost differences between
nations. The Heckscher-Ohlin theory explains the reasons for the
differences in the cost of production in terms of differences in factor
32
endowments. This is another aspect that makes it superior to the
Ricardian analysis.
3. Further, Heckscher and Ohlin make it very clear that international trade
is but a special case of inter-local or inter-regional trade and hence there
is no need for a special theory of international trade. Ohlin states that
regions and nations trade with each other for the same reasons that
individuals specialize and trade. The comparative cost differences are the
basis of all trade ? inter-regional as well as international. Nations,
according to Ohlin, are only regions distinguished from one another by
such obvious marks as national frontiers, tariff barriers and differences in
language, customs and monetary systems.
4. The modern theory of trade is also called the General Equilibrium theory
of international trade because it points out that the general demand and
supply analysis applicable to inter-regional trade can generally be used
without substantial changes in dealing with problems of international
trade.
5. Another merit of the Heckscher-Ohlin theory is that it indicates the
impact of trade on product and factor prices.
6. The Heckscher-Ohlin theory indicates that international trade will
ultimately have the following results:
(1) Equalisation of Commodity Prices: International trade tends to
equalize the prices of internationally traded goods in all the
regions of the world because trade causes the movement of
commodities from area where they are abundant to areas where
they are scarce. This would tend to increase commodity due to
the redistribution of commodity supply between these two
regions as a result of trade, international trade tends to expand up
to the point where prices in all regions become equal. But perfect
33
equality of prices can hardly be achieved due to the existence of
transport costs and due to the absence of free trade and perfect
competition.
(2) Equalisation of Factor Prices: International trade also tends to
equalize factor prices all over the world, International trade
increases the demand for abundant factors (leading to an increase
in their prices) and decrease the demand for scarce factors
(leading to a fall in their prices) because when nations trade,
specialization takes place on the basis of factor endowments. But,
in reality, the presence of a number of imperfections make the
achievement of perfect equality in factor prices impossible.
Criticisms of the Heckscher-Ohlin Theory
Though the Heckscher-Ohlin theory has been found to be more precise,
scientific and superior to the classical theory of international trade, it has also
been criticized by many writers on the following grounds.
1. Over Simplified Assumptions: The Heckscher-Ohlin theory is based on
over simplified assumptions such as perfect competition, full
employment of resources, identical production function, constant returns
to scale, absence of transportation costs and absence of product
differentiations. Hence, it is considered as an unrealistic model.
2. Static analysis: The Heckscher-Ohlin theory investigates the pattern of
international trade in a static setting. Hence the conclusions arrived at
from such analysis will not be relevant to a dynamic economic system.
3. Assumption of Homogeneous Factors: The Heckscher-Ohlin theory
assumed the existence of homogeneous factors in the two countries
34
which can be measured for calculating factor endowment ratios. It is
highly unrealistic because in practice no two factors are homogeneous
qualitatively between the countries.
4. Assumption of Homogeneous Production Techniques: The
Heckscher-Ohlin theory assumed that the production techniques for each
commodity in both the countries are similar. This is also highly
unrealistic because production techniques are different for the same
commodity in the two countries.
5. Unrealistic Assumption of Identical Tastes and Demand Patterns:
The Heckscher-Ohlin theory unrealistically assumes that the tastes and
demand patterns of consumed are the same in both the countries. But in
practice it is not true. Tastes and demand patterns of consumers of
different income groups are different. Further, due to the inventions
taking place in consumer products, changes in tastes and demand
patterns of consumers also occur. Hence, tastes are not similar in trading
countries.
6. Assumption of Constant Returns to Scale: The Heckscher-Ohlin
theory unrealistically assumed that the returns to scale are constant
because a country having rich factor endowments often gets the
advantages of economics of scale through lesser production and exports.
Thus there are increasing returns to scale rather than constant returns.
7. Ignores Transport Costs: The Heckscher-Ohlin theory does not take
into account transport costs in trade between two countries. This is
another unrealistic assumption. When transport costs are included, they
lend to difference in price for the same commodity in the two countries,
which affect their trade relations.
8. Neglects Product Differentiation: The Heckscher-Ohlin theory
overlooked the role played by product differentiation in international
35
trade. It related cost to factor prices and neglected the influence of
product differentiation on international trade. Hence, Heckscher-Ohlin
theory is regarded as faulty.
9. Assumes Relative Factor Proportions Determine the Specialisation
in Exports: The Heckscher-Ohlin theory states that the relative factor
proportions determine the specialization in export of different countries.
It says that capital rich countries will export capital-intensive goods and
labour rich countries will export labour-intensive goods. But it is not
true. In fact, specialisation is governed not only by factor proportions but
also by various other factors like cost and price differences, transport
costs, economies of scale etc.
10. Only Part of the Partial Equilibrium Analysis: Haberler regarded
Ohlin`s theory as less abstract. But, it has failed to develop a general
equilibrium concept. It remains by and large, a part of the partial
equilibrium analysis. It tries to explain the pattern of trade only on the
basis of factor proportions and factor intensities, and several other
influences are totally ignored.
11. Ignores Factor Mobility: The Heckscher-Ohlin theory assumed that
factors are immobile internationally. This assumption is wrong because,
the international mobility of factors of production actually more than the
inter-regional mobility within a country.
12. Vague Theory: The Heckscher-Ohlin theory depends upon various
restrictive and unrealistic assumption. Hence it is considered as a vague
and conditional theory. To quote with Haberler, with many factors of
production, some of which are qualitatively incommensurable as
between different countries, and with dissimilar production functions in
different countries, no sweeping a priori generalization concerning the
composition of trade are possible.
36
1.8 Terms of Trade:-
Terms of trade are an important measure to evaluate gains to individual
countries from international trade. In International Economics, terms of trade
refer to the ratio index of export prices to import prices, In other words, it is the
ratio at which a country`s exports are exchanged for imports.
Different Concepts of Terms of Trade
Gerald M. Meier has classified the different concepts of terms of trade
into the following three categories:
1. Those that relate to the ratio of exchange between commodities:
(a) net barter terms of trade
(b) gross barter terms of trade, and
(c) income terms of trade
2. Those that relate to the interchange between productive resources:
(a) single factoral terms of trade, and
(b) double factoral terms of trade
3. Those that interpret the gains from trade in terms of utility analysis:
(a) real cost terms of trade, and
(b) utility terms of trade.
Net Barter Terms of Trade: Net barter terms of trade, also called the
commodity terms of trade, measure the relative changes in the import and export
prices and is expressed as,
N = Px/Pm
37
Where Px and Pm are price index numbers of exports and imports, respectively.
Gross Barter Terms of Trade: Taussig introduced the concept of gross barter
terms of trade to correct the commodity or net barter terms of trade for unilateral
transactions, or exports or imports which are surrendered without compensation
or received without counter payment, such as tributes and immigrants`
remittances. The gross barter terms of trade in the ratio of the physical quantity
of imports to physical quantity of exports. It may be expressed as,
G = Qm/Qx
Where Qm and Qx are the volume index numbers of imports and
exports, respectively. A rise in G is regarded as a favourable change in the sense
that more imports are received for a given volume of exports than in the base
year.
Income Terms of Trade: G.S. Dorrance has modified that net barter terms of
trade and presented the income terms of trade. The income terms of trade, which
indicate a nation`s capacity to import is represented as,
l = Px.Qx/Pm
It may also expressed as,
l = N.Qx (because N = Px/Pm)
The income terms of trade indicate a nation`s capacity to import because
when the index of total export earnings (Px ? Qx) is divided by the import price
38
index, we get the quantum index of imports that can be made with the export
earnings. Therefore, a rise in l indicates that the nation`s capacity to import ,
based on exports has increased, i.e., it can obtain a lager volume of imports from
the sale of its exports.
Single and Double Factoral Terms of Trade: Jacob Viner has introduced the
concepts of single factoral and double factoral terms of trade to modify the net
barter terms of trade so as to reflect changes in productivity. The single factoral
terms of trade is the net barter terms of trade adjusted for changes in the
efficiency or productivity of a country`s factor in its export industries. It may be
expressed as,
S = N ? Zx
where Zx is the export productivity index.
A rise in S implies that a greater quantity of imports can be obtained per
unit of factor-input used in the production of exportables. Hence, a rise in N is
regarded as a favorable movement. The double factoral terms of trade is the net
barter terms of trade corrected for changes in the productivity in producing
imports as well as exports. It may be expressed as,
D = N ? Zx/Zm
where Zm is an import productivity index.
39
A rise in D is a favourable movement, because it implies that one unit of
home factors embodied in exports can now be exchanged for more units of the
foreign factors embodied in imports.
Real Cost Terms of Trade: The concept of real cost terms of trade, introduced
by Jacob Viner, attempts to measure the gain from international trade in utility
terms.
The total amount of gain from trade may be defined in utility terms as
the excess of total utility accruing from imports over the total sacrifices of utility
involved in the surrender of exports. (Exports result in loss if utility to the
exporting country because the resource used for export production could have
been utilized for products meant for domestic consumption. Imports, on the
other hand, represent gain of utility}.
To find out the real cost terms of trade, we correct the single factoral
terms of trade index by multiplying 5 by the reciprocal of an index of the
amount of disutility per unit of productive resources used in producing exports.
The real cost terms of trade may be represented as,
R = N ? Fx ? Rx
Where Fx = index of productivity efficiency in export industries and Rx
= index of the amount of disutility incurred per unit of productive factors in the
export sector.
40
A rise in R indicated that the amount of imports obtained per unit of real
cost is greater, R may rise as result of a change in the methods of producing
exports, or a change in factor proportions used in exports.
Utility Terms of Trade: The concept of utility terms of trade, which was also
introduced by Jacob Viner, marks an improvement of the real cost terms of
trade.
The utility terms of trade may be represented as,
U = N ? Fx ? Rx ? Um
Where Um = index of relative utility of imports compared to the
commodities that could have been produced for internal consumption with those
productive factors which are at present devoted to the production of export
goods.
Influences on Terms of Trade
The terms of trade of a country depend on a number of factors. The
important factors that influence in terms of trade are the following:
1. Elasticity of Demand and Supply: The elasticity of demand for exports
and imports and the elasticity of supply of exports and imports of a
country significantly influence its terms of trade.
2. Competitive Conditions: Competitive conditions in the international
market are another important influence on the terms of trade. If the
country enjoys monopoly or oligopoly power in case of the goods it
41
exports and there are a large number of alternative sources of supply of
imports, the country would have a favourable terms of trade.
3. Tastes and Preferences: Changes in tastes and preferences may also
cause change in the terms of trade. A change in the former in favour of a
country`s export goods could help improve its terms of trade and vice
versa.
4. Rate of Exchange: Changes in the rate of exchange of the currency also
affect terms of trade. For instance, if a country`s currency appreciates,
the terms of trade of that country will, ceteris paribus, improve, because
the currency appreciation causes an increase in the prices of exports and
a decrease in import prices.
5. Tariffs and Quotas: The terms of trade of a country may be affected
also by tariffs and quotas. The latter, if not retaliated by other countries,
may have the effect of improving the terms of trade under certain
conditions.
6. Economic Development: There are two important effects of economic
development to be considered, namely, the demand effect and the supply
effect. The demand effect refers to the increase in demand for imports as
a result of the increase in income associated with economic
development. The supply effect refers to the increase in supply of import
competing goods or import substitutes. The net effect on other terms of
trade will obviously depend upon the extent of these effects.
Problems of Measurement of Terms of Trade
The use of price indices to measure terms of trade has the following
limitations:
42
1. Changes in Quality: Over the years, the quality of internationally trade
goods may undergo a change, but the price indices may not reflect this
change.
2. Changes in Composition: Changes in the composition of the traded
goods over a period of time may also not be reflected in the price
indices.
3. Price Differences: The price indices of import and export goods are
usually based on the price declarations made to the customs authorities,
which may differ from the actual market selling price of the imports and
exports.
4. Problems of Weightage: Another problem associated with the price
index pertains to that of assigning appropriate weights to various
commodities that enter the international trade of the country.
1.9 International Trade in Services:-
International trade in services, which makes up a major share of the
invisible account of the Balance of Payments, has been growing fast. It
increased from $800 billion in 1990 to about $1435 billion in 2000 and to about
$1.8 trillion in 2003. During the 1980`s trade in services grew faster than that of
the goods increasing its share in the total global trade from 17 per cent in 1980
to 20 per cent in 1990. The share of services in the total global trade remained
more or less the same (about one-fifth) since then. In 2003, while the
merchandise trade grew by 4 per cent, the services trade increased by 12 per
cent. The combined trade in goods ($7.3 trillion) and services ($1.8 trillion)
crossed $9 trillion in 2003.
43
It is pointed out that the internationalization of services is reflected in
the growth of both trade and foreign direct investment flows. Both have been
driven by innovation in information and communication technology that allowed
increasing specialization. As of early 1990s, about 50 per cent of global stock of
FDI was in services activities. The share of annual flows to many countries has
been over 65 per cent in recent years. Economic development is, generally,
charaterised by an increase of the share of the services in the GDP and total
employment. This trend tends to increase the international trade in services.
The services sector which contributes more than 60 per cent of the world
GDP is growing fast. It is the largest sector in most of the economies and it is
the fastest growing sector in many of them. The development economies are
primarily service economies in the sense that the service sector generates bulk of
the employment and income. The contribution of services to GDP and
employment is substantially high in, particularly, the development economies.
Although the share of services in the GDP of developing economies is lower
than in the development ones, the service sector has been growing very fast in
the developing world. The growing importance of services is reflected in the
international trade too. The growth rate of trade in services was faster than that
of goods.
As a World Bank report observes, the tremendous growth of trade in
services and, more recently, of electronic commerce is part of the new trade
pattern. Exports of commercial services have been growing on every continent
(particularly Asia) throughout the 1990s. This change has its own special
significance, as services are frequently used in the production of goods and even
other services. Enhanced international competition in services means reduction
in price and improvements in quality that will enhance the competitiveness of
44
downstream industries. Both industrial and developing economies have much to
gain by opening their markets. Developing countries would derive large gains
from an easing of barriers to agricultural products and to labour-intensive
construction and maritime services. Over the longer terms electronic business
will loom large as an area where expanding opportunities for trade require an
expanding framework of rules.
Major Services
Travel and transportation account for major share of the services trade.
In 1997, travel accounted for about one-third and transportation about one-
fourth of the services exports. However, trade in other commercial services
(particularly financial services ? including banking and insurance ? construction
services, and computer and information services) has been growing faster than
these two categories. Travel and transportation account for major share of the
services trade.
International trade in many services involves international factor
mobility. There are number of international transaction involving temporary
factor relocation services such as those requiring temporary residence by foreign
labour to execute services transactions.
Major Service Traders
The world trade in service is dominated by the developed economies. In
2002, the three top exporters ? USA, UK, and Germany did over 30 per cent of
the world total. Seven countries account for about half and 11 countries nearly
60 pre cent of the total service exports. It may be noted that USA which has a
45
huge deficit on the merchandise trade has a huge surplus on the services trade.
Some countries like Japan and China which have huge surplus on the goods
trade have large deficit on the services account.
With 1.5 per cent share, India`s share in global export of services in
2002, India`s rank was 19th, compared to 30th rank in merchandise exports and
with a 1.4 per cent share of global import of services, its rank was 19, as against
24 in merchandise imports. In recent years India has improved its share and rank
in the merchandise trade.
Barriers to Trade in Services
International trade in services, thus, involves intricate issues like right to
establish and factor mobility. These are the problems faced in leberalising trade
in services as compared to trade in goods.
Due to the special characteristics and the socio-economics and political
implications of certain services, they are, generally, subject to various types of
national restrictions. Tariff as well as non-tariff restrictions are widespread.
Protective measures include subsides, tariffs, taxes, quotas, and technical
standards, visa requirements, investment regulations, restrictions on repatriation,
marketing regulations on the employment of foreigners, compulsion to use local
facilities, etc.
1.10 Meanings of Balance of Payment:-
The terms, the balance of international payments, usually referred to as
the balance of payments, is a systematic and summary record of a country`s
46
economic and financial transactions with the rest of the world, over a period of
time.
The IMF publication Balance of Payments Manual describes the concept
as follows: The Balance of Payments is a statistical statement for a given
period showing:
1. Transactions in goods and services and income between an economy and
the rest of the world;
2. Changes of ownership and other changes in that country`s monetary
gold, Special Drawing Rights (SDRs) and claims on and liabilities to the
rest of the world; and
3. Unrequited transfers and counterpart entries that are needed to balance,
in the accounting sense, any entries for the foregoing transactions and
changes which are not mutually offsetting.
1.11 Structure of Balance of Payments:-
The format of the balance of payments given below shows the important
types of transactions that enter the balance of payments. The various debit and
credit entries are generally grouped under the following heads;
(1) Current Account
(2) Capital Account
(3) Unilateral Payments Account
(4) Official Reserves Assets Account.
47
Current Account
The current account includes all transactions which give rise to or use up
national income. The Current Account consists of two major items, namely, (a)
merchandise exports and imports; and (b) invisible exports and imports.
Merchandise exports, i.e., sale of goods abroad, are credit entries because all
transactions giving rise to monetary claims on foreigners represent credits. On
the other hand, merchandise imports, i.e., purchase of goods from abroad, are
debit entries because all transactions giving rise to foreign money claims on the
home country represent debits. Merchandise imports and exports form the most
import international transactions of most of the countries.
Invisible exports, i.e., sale of services, are credit entries and invisible
imports, i.e., purchase of services, are debit entries. Important invisible exports
include sale abroad of service like transport and insurance, foreign tourist
expenditure in the home country and income received on loans and investments
abroad (interests or dividends). Purchase of foreign services like transport and
insurance, tourist expenditure abroad and income paid on loans and investments
(by foreigners) in the home country form the important invisible entries on the
debit side. Software exports have emerged as a very important invisible item of
India`s current account.
Capital Account
The capital account consists of short-term and long-term capital
transactions. Capital outflow represents debit and capital inflow represents
credit. For instance, if an American firm invests $100 million in India, this
transactions will be represented represented as a debit in the US Balance of
48
Payments and a credit in the Balance of Payments of India. Payment of interest
on loans and dividend payments are recorded in the current account, since they
are really payments for the services of capital, As has already been mentioned
above, interest paid on loans given by foreigners or dividend on foreign
investments in the home country are debits for the home country, while, on the
other hand, interest received on loans given abroad and dividends on
investments abroad are credits.
Unilateral Transfers Account
Unilateral transfers is another terms for gifts, and includes private
remittances, government grants, reparations and disaster relief. Unilateral
payments received from abroad are credits and those made abroad are debits.
Official Reserves Account
Official reserves represent the holdings by the government of official
agencies of the means of payment that are generally accepted for the settlement
of international claims.
1.12 Balance of Payments Disequilibrium:-
The balance of payments of a country is said to be in equilibrium when
the demand for foreign exchange in exactly equivalent to the supply of it. The
balance of payments is regarded as being in disequilibrium when it show either a
surplus or a deficit. There will be a deficit in the balance of payments when the
demand for foreign exchange exceeds its supply, and three will be a surplus
when the supply of foreign exchange exceeds the demand. There are a number
49
of factors that may cause disequilibrium in the balance of payments. These
various causes may be broadly categorized into: (1) economic factors, (2)
political factors and (3) sociological factors.
Economic Factors
There are a number of economic factors which may cause disequilibrium
in the balance of payments.
Development Disequilibrium: Large scale development expenditures usually
increase the purchasing power, aggregate demand and prices, resulting in
substantially large imports. Development disequilibrium is common in the case
of developing countries, because the above factors and the large scale import of
capital goods needed for carrying out the various development programmes give
rise to a deficit in their balance of payments.
Cyclical Disequilibrium: Cyclical fluctuations of general business activity is
one of the prominent reasons for balance of payments disequilibrium. As
Lawrence W. Towle points out, depression always brings about a drastic
shrinkage in world trade, while prosperity stimulates it. A country enjoying a
boom all by itself will ordinary experience a more repaid growth in its imports
than in its exports, while the opposite will be true of other countries, But
production in the countries will be activated as a result of the increased exports
to the former.
Secular Disequilibrium: Sometimes, the balance of payments disequilibrium
persists for long periods due to certain secular trends in the economy. For
instance, in a developed country, the disposable income is generally very high
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and, therefore, so is the aggregate demand. At the same time, the production
costs are also very high due to the higher wages. This naturally results in higher
prices. These two factors ? high aggregate demand and higher domestic prices ?
may result in the imports being much higher than the exports.
Structural Disequilibrium: Structural changes in the economy may also cause
a balance of payments disequilibrium. Such structural changes include
development of alternative source of supply, development of better substitutes,
exhaustion of productive resources or change in transport routes and costs.
Political Factors
Certain political factors could also produce a balance of payments
disequilibrium. For instance, a country plagued with political instability may
experience large capital outflow and inadequacy of domestic investment and
production. These factors may, sometimes cause a disequilibrium in the balance
of payments. Further, factors like war of changes in the world trade routes, could
also produce similar difficulties.
Social Factors
Certain social factors also influence balance of payments. For instance,
changes in the tastes, preferences and fashions, may affect imports and exports
and thereby affect the balance of payments.
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1.13 Adjustment Mechanism in Balance of Payments:-
A country may not be bothered about a surplus in the balance of
payments but every country strives to remove or at least reduce a balance of
payments deficit.
There are a number of adjustment mechanism available for correcting the
balance of payments disequilibrium. They fall into two broad group, namely,
automatic measures and deliberate measures.
Automatic Correction
This worked well under the gold standard. Today since there is no
country on gold standard, it is irrelevant to discuss the mechanism here. The
balance of payment disequilibrium may, however, be automatically corrected
under the paper currency standard also. The theory of automatic corrections is
that if the market forces of demand and supply are allowed to have free play, in
course of time, equilibrium will be automatically restored. For example, assume
that there is a deficit in the balance of payments.
When there is a deficit, the demand for foreign exchange exceeds its
supply and this results in an increase in the exchange rate and a fall in the
external value of the domestic currency. This makes the exports of the country
cheaper and imports dearer than before. Consequently, the increase in exports
and fall in imports restore the balance of payments equilibrium.
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Deliberate Measures
As the name indicates, deliberate measures refer to correction of
disequilibrium by means of measures taken deliberately with this end in view.
The various deliberate measures may be broadly grouped into (a)
monetary measures (b) trade measures and (c) miscellaneous measures.
(a) Monetary Measures: The important monetary measures are outlined
below:
1. Monetary Contraction: The level of aggregate domestic demand,
domestic price level and the demand for imports and exports may be
influenced by contraction or expansion of money supply so that a
balance of payments disequilibrium may be corrected. For example,
assume a situation of balance of payments deficit to correct which a
contraction of money supply is required. Constraction of money supply
is likely to reduce the purchasing power and thereby, the aggregate
demand. It is also likely to reduce domestic prices. The fall in the
domestic aggregate demand and domestic prices reduces the demand for
imports. The fall in domestic prices is likely to increase exports. Thus,
the fall in imports and rise in exports would help correct the
disequilibrium.
2. Devaluation: Devaluation means the reduction of the official rate at
which the currency is exchanged for another currency. A country with
fundamental disequilibrium in the balance of payments may devalue to
currency in order to stimulate its exports and discourage imports to
correct the disequilibrium. Devaluation makes export goods cheaper and
imports dearer.
53
3. Exchange Control: Exchange control is a popular method employed to
influence the balance of payments positions of a country. Under
exchange control, the government of central bank assumed complete
control over the foreign exchange reserves and earnings of the country.
The recipients of foreign exchange, like exporters, are required to
surrender foreign exchange to the government/central bank in exchange
for domestic currency. By virtue of its control over the use of foreign
exchange, the government can control imports.
(b) Trade Measures: Trade measures include export promotion measures
and measures to reduce imports.
1. Export Promotion: Exports may be encouraged by reducing or
abolishing export duties, providing export subsidy, encouraging export
production and export marketing by giving monetary, fiscal, physical and
institutional incentives and facilities.
2. Import Control: Imports may be controlled by improving or enhancing
import duties, restricting imports through import quotas, licensing and
even prohibiting altogether the import of certain inessential items.
(c) Miscellaneous Measures: Apart from the measures mentioned above,
there are a number of other measures that can help make the balance of
payments position more favourable, like obtaining foreign tourists and
providing incentives to enhance inward remittances.
Methods of Correction of BOP Disequilibrium
The following chart may explain the various correction methods
normally employed by the government in balance of payment for solving
disequilibrium problem.
54
CORRECTION OF BOP DISEQUILIBRIUM
Automatic Correction
Deliberate Measures
Monetary Measures
1. Monetary Contract/expansion
Miscellaneous Measures
2. Devaluation/revaluation
1. Foreign loans
3. Exchange control
2. Incentives for foreign investment
4. Incentives for foreign remittances
3. Tourism development
5. Import substitution
TRADE SERVICES
Export Promotion
Import Control
1. Abolition/reduction of export duties
1. Import duties
2. Export subsidies
2. Import quotas
3. Export incentives
3. Import prohibition
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1.14 Summary:-
There have been a number of theoretical explanations of the bases and
pattern of international trade. The oldest of the dominant trade philosophy is
known as Mercantilism. The mercantilists argued that Government should do
everything possible to maximize exports and minimize imports. Very active
State intervention was required to implement the mercantilist philosophy.
According to mercantilism, economic activity was a zero-sum game (i.e., one`s
gain is the loss of another). This view was challenged by Adam Smith and
David Ricardo who demonstrated that trade was a positive sum game in which
all trading nations can gain even if some benefit more than others.
Adam Smith believed that the basis of international trade was Absolute
Cost Advantage. According to his theory, trade between two countries would be
mutually beneficial if one country could produce one commodity at an absolute
advantage (over the other country) and the other country could, in turn, produce
another commodity at an absolute advantage over the first, Smith rightly pointed
out that the scope for division of labour (i.e., specialisation) depended on the
size of the market. Free international trade, therefore, increases division of
labour and economic efficiency and consequently economic welfare.
Challenging the Smithian theory, the famous classical economist David
Ricardo has demonstrated that the basis of trade is the comparative cost
difference ? trade can take place even in the absence of absolute cost difference,
provided there is comparative cost difference. According to the comparative
Cost Theory, if trade is left free, each country, in the long run, lends to
specialize in the production and export of those commodities in whose
production it enjoys a comparative advantage in terms of real costs, and to
56
obtain by importation those commodities which could be produced at home at a
comparative disadvantage in terms of real costs, and that such specialization is
to the mutual advantage of the countries participating in it.
The Opportunity cost Theory put forward by Gottfried Haberler by
displacing one of the main drawbacks of the Ricardian comparative cost theory,
vix., labour cost theory of value, gave a new life to the comparative cost theory
by restating it in terms of opportunity costs. The opportunity cost of anything is
the value of the alternatives or other opportunities which have to be foregone in
order to obtain that particular thing. According to the opportunity cost theory,
the basis of international trade is the differences between nations in the
opportunity costs of production of commodities. Accordingly, a nation with a
lower opportunity cost for a commodity has a comparative advantage in that
commodity and a comparative disadvantage in the other commodity.
The Factor Endowment Theory. Developed by Eli Heckscher and Bertil
Ohlin, establishes that trade, whether national or international, takes place
because of the differences in the factor endowments of the various regions (for
example one country may be rich in capital and another in labour) and the
differences in the factor intensity of various products (like capital intensive
products and labour intensive products) and trade will lead to commodity and
eventually factor prices equalization internationally. The factor endowment
theory consists of two important theorems, namely, (i) Heckscher-Ohlin
Theorem which states that a country has comparative advantage in the
production of that commodity which uses more intensively the country`s more
abundant factor, and (ii) Factor Price Equalisation Theorem which says that free
international trade equalizes factor prices between countries, and, thus, serves as
a substitute for international factor mobility
57
Nations can gain very significantly from international trade if trade is
fair. The tremendous expansion of international trade is an indication of the
gains associated with trade. International trade leads to specialization on a larger
scale and, thus, increases the gain from the division of labour. Theoretically,
small countries may gain more than large countries from international trade.
This is because a small country can sepcialise in production, but if a large
country specializes in the production of a single commodity without
significantly affecting its prices in the production of a single commodity, the
significant increase in its supply would cause a fall in its price, adversely
affecting the terms of trade of the large country.
The gains from trade are not equally distributed; international trade
sometimes leads to fast exhaustion of non-replenishable resource; trade
sometimes ruins domestic industries and competition; international trade
sometimes disturbs domestic economic institutions and structures, as well as
social political set ups.
Some countries may gain more whereas for others the gain may be
relatively less, sometimes even negative. The most important determinant of the
distribution of gain is the terms of trade, i.e., the rate at which a country`s
exports are exchanged for imports. According to Mill`s doctrine, the
international terms of trade between two commodities will depend upon the
strength of the world supply and demand for each of the two commodities. In
other words, the terms of trade is determined by reciprocal demand. According
to mill, the actual ratio at which goods are traded will depend upon the strength,
and elasticity of each country`s demand for the other country`s product, or upon
reciprocal demand.
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The terms of trade of a country depend on a number of factors. The
important factors that influence the terms of trade are: The elasticity of demand
for exports and imports and the elasticity of supply of exports and imports of a
country; competitive conditions in the international market; changes in tastes
and preferences of people; changes in the rate of exchange of the currency;
tariffs and quotas. Further, the terms of trade are affected by economic
development.
1.15 Self Assessment Questions:-
1. Distinguish between internal trade and international trade.
2. Critically examine Adam Smith`s theory of absolute cost.
3. Discuss the comparative cost theory of David Ricardo.
4. Evaluate the opportunity cost theory of Haberler`s.
5. Explain the importance of Heckscher-Ohlin theory of international trade.
6. Describe the different concepts of terms of trade. What are the important
factors which influences the terms of trade?
7. Examine the salient features and issues of global trade in services.
8. What is meant by balance of payments disequilibrium? Explain the
factors which causes balance of payments disequilibrium.
9. Discuss the important methods of correcting balance of payments
disequilibrium.
Reference Books:-
1. International Trade and Export Management ? Francis Cheranilam.
2. International Marketing Management ? Varsheny R.L. and B.
Bhattacharya.
59
3. International Trade ? Verma. M.L.
4. International Economics ? M.L. Jhingon
60
UNIT II
COMMERCIAL POLICY INSTRUMENTS
Lesson 1 OVERVIEW
Objectives
1. To recall the importance of Foreign Trade for the development of a
nation.
2. To explain the need for policy framework.
3. To trace briefly historic perspective of progress of foreign Trade Policy.
4. To identify the need for commercial policy Instruments (CPI)
5. To describe various commercial Policy Instruments.
Structure
1.1 Importance of Foreign Trade
1.2 Need for Policy framework
1.3 Brief historic perspective of Foreign Trade Policy
1.4 Need for commercial policy instruments
1.5 Various instruments.
1.6. Summary
1.7. Keywords
1.8. Answers
1.9. Reference
1.10. Questions.
1.1. IMPORTANCE OF FOREIGN TRADE
1.1.1.
Introduction
Trade is an exchange or dealing in goods and services. Any household,
village, town, city, state or country cannot have all goods and services required
for them. Naturally, there is need for exchanging goods and services and
,,Trade helped to fulfill the demands of people. When ,,wants are increasing
day-by-day, there is necessity for more trading activities along production.
If the trading is taking place internally within the political boundaries
of a country, it is a domestic trade. If it takes place externally with other
61
countries beyond the boundaries of a country, then, it is a foreign trade.
When the trade is taking place between two countries, bilaterally or among
several countries, multilaterally, it is considered as ,,international trade,
involving two or more nations. This is a general term for external trade; When
the trading activity of our country with other countries are considered, it is
termed as ,,foreign trade, that is, the trade is foreign from the point of view of
our country. The term foreign trade is with reference to a particular country.
Foreign trade of a country includes the imports and exports or
merchandise and services.
Nature has distributed the factors of production unequally over on the
earth. Countries differ in terms of natural resource endowments, climatic
conditions, mineral resources and mines, labour and capital resources,
technological capabilities, entrepreneurial and managerial skills and a whole
host of other variables which determine the capacities of countries to produce
goods and services.
All these differences in production possibilities lead to situations where
some countries can produce some goods and services more efficiently than
others; and no country can produce all the goods and services in most efficient
manner. Japan, for example, produces automobiles or electronic goods more
efficiently than any other country in the world; Malaysia produces rubber and
palm oil more efficiently than other countries can do. Their capacity to produce
these goods like electronics or rubber is far in excess of their capacity to
consume them. Therefore, Japan and Malaysia can export these goods to other
countries at relatively lower prices. Thus, international / foreign trade enables
people all over the world to get goods and services more efficiently, effectively
and economically.
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1.1.2
Importance
In the modern economic environment Foreign Trade (FT) is inevitable
for a country`s growth and development for the following reasons:
1.
It earns foreign exchange required for payment for imports
and to pay foreign debts. It reduces the burden for the foreign debts.
2.
Export increases the economic activity and results in greater
income and standard of living. Increased competition reduces prices.
For example TV, computers other electronic goods, cars etc.
3.
Contributes to the national income of the country.
4.
Expands and widens the market for domestic products and
hence fetches better price and profit.
5.
Foreign exchange earned through FT, generates economic
development activities.
6.
People live happily, gratifying the varied tastes and wants.
7.
It encourages international specialization using the special
facilities and natural resources, capital efficiency and efficiency of
human power.
8.
FT provides for expanding employment opportunities and
industrial production.
9.
Helps to import capital goods and technology which will
modernise the industrial sector and increase the efficiency.
10.
FT enables to make the best use of all available resources
including human resources.
11.
FT makes available by sharing the scarce resources.
12.
FT enables to equalize the prices among countries. It moves
the commodities where it is available in plenty to countries where it is
costly. The vast difference in prices will be reduced in due course by
the principle of demand and supply.
13.
FT expands market and leads to large scale production to
achieve the benefits of economic of scale and to improve
specialization and modernization.
14.
Any invention in any corner of the country spreads to all
countries through International Trade / FT.
15.
The whole world makes best use of scarce resources including
human resources, technology and market and reduces abnormal
differences.
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1.2
NEED FOR POLICY FRAMEWORK
1.2.1 Policy is a standing plan
Planning is the first and foremost aspect of efficient and effective
management. The success of FT depends on excellent planning. You know
well that failure to plan is planning to fail. Policy is a significant type plan.
1.2.2 Standing Plan
Koontz and O`Donnel define policy as a general statement of
understanding, which guides the thinking and action in decision making.
Whenever certain activities occur repeatedly, a single decision or set of
decisions can effectively guide those activities. Once established, standing
plans allow managers to conserve time used for planning and decision making
because similar situations are handled in predetermined, consistent manner.
A policy is a general guideline for decision making. It sets up
boundaries around decisions, including those that can be made and shutting out
those that cannot.
Polices are usually established formally and deliberately at the top level.
It will improve the effectiveness of the system. It avoids some conflict or
confusion. Foreign Trade being crucial factor in national development
formulation of policy framework is essential.
1.2.3 Characteristics of a Good Policy
A good policy should consist of the following characteristics:
Policies should contribute toward accomplishment of objectives. They
should provide broad outlines within which decisions are to be taken to
achieve the objectives.
Policies should be simple and clear and should not give room for
misinterpretation.
Policies of an organization should be consistent.
Policies should be adequate and sufficient in number to deal with different
fields of activities.
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Policies should be flexible in nature, in order to adjust with the changing
situations.
Policies should be in writing in order to ensure uniformity in application.
Merits of Policies
Policies are guidelines to thinking and action, which provide
mangers with the framework within which decisions are to be
taken.
Policies provide uniformity of performance and consistency of
action throughout the enterprise.
Policies ensure promptness of action; they help managers to act
confidently without the need for guidance from superiors.
Policies facilitate effective control; they provide rational means for
evaluating the results.
Policies ensure integration and coordination of action in achieving
the organizational goals.
Policies help to build the confidence of managers, since they
provide ready made answers to all problems faced by the
organization.
1.3
BRIEF HISTORIC
PERSPECTIVE OF FOREIGN TRADE POLICY
1.3.1 Necessity
Out of sheer necessity the Foreign Trade Policy (FTP) has been evolved
over a period since independence. Policies are framed based on past experience
and future needs and when circumstances change, new policies are evolved so
that the problems faced could be sorted out and foreign Trade could become an
effective source of national development.
1.3.2
Historic Perspective
The first active step was taken in 1970 in the form of a Export Policy
Resolution. The major events of chronological progress of the FTP, is indicated
as follows:
1970 : Export Policy Resolution passed in the Parliament.
1978 : Export-Import and procedures by Alexander committee.
1980 : Export strategies for eighties by Tandon committee.
1984 : Trade Policies by Abid Hussain committee.
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1985 : Exim Policy by Viswanath Pradap Singh Government. (3 year Policy)
1990-93: 3-year Import Export Policy.
1992-97: Export-Import Policy (to coincide with Plan period)
1997-02: Eixm Policies with major changes.
2002-02: Exim Policies
2004-09: New Foreign Trade Policy (NFTP) was introduced due to change in
Government.
1.3.3 Trade and Economic Policy
Until 1990`s, India`s Trade Policy was mostly influenced by the
Swadeshi (self sufficiency) feelings and the licence raj system of
restrictions on production and imports. A first generation of reforms (1991-
1996) ? aimed at, inter alia, liberalizing trade ? led to a reduction of import
tariffs, elimination of quantitative restrictions, exchange rate reforms and
deregulation of industry resulting in yearly growth rates of around 7%
(compared with 3% before the reforms).
A second generation of reforms was initiated in 1999 to address issues
related to lack of competitiveness, poor infrastructure and overregulation. India
has set the ambitious target of an annual 8% sustainable growth besides
doubling the per capita income over 10 years.
As you know, India is a member of all major multilateral economic for a,
including the International Monetary Fund (IMF), the World Bank and the Asian
Development Bank (ADB). India was founding member of both GATT and the
World Trade Organisation (WTO).
At regional level, India is member of SAARC, (South Asia Association
of Regional Cooperation) of BIMSTEC (Bangladesh, India, Myanmar, Sri
Lanka, Thailand Economic Cooperation) Bangkok Agreement. India has a free
trade agreement with Singapore and with the other SAARC countries (SAFTA)
and is in the process of negotiating one with Japan, South Korea, GCC and
ASEAN.
66
The details of the NFTP (2004-2009) would be discussed in the relevant
unit of this paper. The major objective of the NFTP is to double India`s share in
world exports from the current 0.82% to nearly 2% by 2010. This provides the
much needed boost to Indian exporters. This also reaffirms the fact that trade
policy reforms forms the core of the country`s economic reform.
Within the broad framework of Foreign Trade Policy, commercial Policy
Instruments are necessitated to protect indigenous industries as otherwise the
indigenous supporting industries may be wiped out by the tornado of developed
countries dumping of their products.
Now we will discuss the need for Commercial Policy Instruments.
Check your progress. 1
1. The Export Policy Resolution was passed in the parliament in ____________.
2. Policy is a general guideline for _________________________.
3. Policies provide national means for ______________________ the results.
1.4 NEED FOR COMMERCIAL POLICY INSTRUMENTS
1.4.1 Tariff and Non Tariff barriers
In order to protect our industries, we have to make use of the
Commercial Policy Instruments (CPI). These policy instruments like levying
import duty (tariff) as well as other tariffs and adapting other non-tariff barriers
like quantitative restrictions enable us to safeguard our industries from these
gigantic claws of the developed countries.
It would be very difficult to compete with developed countries with their
higher economic status and connected facilities, subsidies and encourage merit
in increasing production and reducing their costs. If these products are
67
permitted without restrictions and different forms of tariffs to their prices, our
products may not find markers internally or externally.
Under such international trading environment, there is need for
developing countries to adopt commercial policy instruments to protect their
own industries.
1.4.2 Multilateral Trading System
Understand the international trading environment, has become
imperative for the entrepreneurs and the export managers in vie of the growing
globalization, liberalization and competition in the world trade. The
international trading environment consists of rule-based multilateral trading
system, trading blocks, trade agreements and trade policies of individual
countries.
The multilateral trading system refers to the system that governs the
trading among various countries. This system has been established over the
years as a result of the international negotiations among the various countries.
These negotiations provide the guidelines to member countries for the
formulation of their policies governing international trade. Besides, the
emergence of various trading blocks reflecting varying degrees of economic
integration and bilateral trade agreements amongst the countries have had a
profound impact on course of international trade flows and the state of
competition at the global market place.
The General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT) was established in
1948 and the WTO was established in 1955.
1.4.3 The Legal framework
The Legal framework for the enforcement of the multilateral trading
system consists of the following:
Rules governing international trade
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Agreement on safeguard measures
Agreements to deal with unfair trade practices namely,
Agreements on anti dumping practices and Agreement on
subsidies and countervailing measures.
P.K Khurana has analysed the Legal framework further as depicted here:
Multilateral Trading System
Rules
Protection to
Meeting Threats of
Domestic Industries
Unfair Trade
Competition
Protection through
Safeguard Measure for
import tariffs only
Anti dumping
Countervailing
duties
duties
Reduction in import
tariffs & binding
Serious injury
Economic
MFN Principle
Development
National Treatment
Rule
In this unit we restrict our scope to some of the Commercial Policy
Instruments only and discuss their use, and abuse in favour of developed
countries and the resultant measures taken in the Institution of Multilateral
Trading System ? WTO and the effects of such measures.
1.5 VARIOUS INSTRUMENTS
Commercial Policy Instruments are evolved over period and it is a
continuous process. Its scope is vast and varied. Here we restrict our discussion
on various instruments as follows:
Tariffs and their different types.
Growth of quota system or quantitative restrictions (QRS) and its
removal
Antidumping / countervailing duties
Technical standards
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Exchange control measures
Other non-tariff measures
The details of these instruments are discussed in the ensuing lessons.
Check your progress. 2
4. Commercial policy instrument could be in the form of tariff and
_____________ barriers.
5. The multinational organization connected with International Trading is
_______________.
6. Anti-dumping / Countervailing duties help to meet the threats of
________________ Competition.
1.6. SUMMARY
In this lesson, the importance of foreign trade, the need for policy frame
work and the Commercial Policy Instruments and the various kinds of such
instruments are discussed.
1.7. KEYWORDS
FTP: Foreign Trade Policy.
CPI : Commercial Policy Instruments.
QR : Quantitative Restriction (Quota)
Tariff : Duty Received on imports / exports
(1) 1970
(2) decision making
(3) evaluation
(4) non-tariff
(5) world Trading Organisation (WTO)
(6) Unfair
1.9. REFERENCES
Choudhuri B.K., Finance of Foreign Trade and Foreign Exchange, Himalayas
Khurana P.K., Export Management, Galgotia, New Delhi.
Foreign Trade Policy, Directorate of Distance Education (MFT Course) export
Manual, Govt. of India.
1.10. QUESTIONS
1. Explain importance of Foreign Trade
2. What re policies? Why policies are required?
3. Trace the historic evolution of FT policy in India.
4. What are characteristics of a good policy.
5. Mention various forms of Commercial Policy Instruments.
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Lesson - 2
TARIFFS, QUOTAS, AND
ANTIDUMPING/COUNTERVAILING DUTIES
Objective
To define the concepts Tariff, Quotas, antidumping/countervailing
duties.
To enumerate various arguments of tariff policy
To distinguish tariff and non-tariff barriers
To explain different types of tariffs
To understand Tariff Schedule
To describe implications of the rules of GATT 1994 with regard to
protection to indigenous industries
To differentiate various types of Quota systems
To analyse the impact of removal of QRs
To distinguish anti-dumping duty and countervailing duty
To explain the procedures relating to the above two duties
Structure
2.1 Introduction
2.2 Two views
2.3 Tariff Policy Agreements
2.4 Tariff Schedule
2.5 GATT Rules
2.6 Quota Policy
2.7 QR Removal
2.8 Impact Study
2.9 Antidumping Practices (ADP); Subsidies and Countervailing Measures
(SCM)
2.10 Summary
2.11 Answers
2.12 Keywords
2.13 References
2.14 Questions
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2.1 INTRODUCTION
Government has to protect the domestic industry from the foreign
competition. In order to protect the domestic industries, Government has to
announce certain policies protecting and supporting the domestic sector. The
term protection refers to a policy introduced to protect the domestic industries
from the external forces i.e., foreign competition, compulsions of the
International Financial Institutions etc.
The policy governing the support of indigenous industry aims to impose
restrictions on the imports of low priced products to support and protect the
domestic industries. Imposing high import duties will increase the price of the
imported goods.
Quotas and other non-tariff barriers also will protect the domestic
industries. The domestic industries may be provided subsidies and concessions
to enable them to compete with the foreign competitors producing low priced
goods.
The major Commercial Policy Instruments (CPI) governing the support
of indigenous industry are as follows:
Tariff Policy
Quota Policy
Anti-dumping duties and
Subsidies and Concessions
2.2 TWO VIEWS
In general Trade barriers are classified into two categories. They are
tariff barriers and non-tariff barriers. From the point of view of the importing
country CPI is a protective instrument from the point of view of exporting
country these are barriers.
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2.2.1. Tariff barrier
Tariff refers to duty (tax) imposed on imports and exports. Levying duty
and changing duty structure are common on imports. So tariff popularly refers to
import duty. Tariff is levied to regulate imports. Tariff increases price of the
imported goods and imports become expensive. Tariff is raised for the purpose
of primarily protecting domestic industries and to increase revenue of the
Government.
Tariff reduces the volume of International trade and prevents the
countries from getting gains from trade. Tariff barrier reduces International
business relations between countries and it is treated as obstacle in the
International trade.
Tariff is classified into three types. They are specific duty, ad valorem
duty and compound duty. Recently Government introduced special additional
duty.
Specific duty is a percentage of tariff levied on the value of imports.
Ad valorem duty will be more or less equivalent to the excise duty,
levied if the imported goods are produced locally.
Compound duty is a tariff consisting of both a specific and ad valorem
duty.
Anti-dumping duty is also one of the tariff barriers. This duty is levied to
protect the domestic industries from foreign competition. Anti-dumping duty is
common not only in developing countries but also in developed countries.
Recently India imposed anti-dumping duty for the import of steel, because
domestic steel prices are higher than the imported steel. In this situation,
imported steel will be dumped into Indian market and domestic steel industries
will be affected. So anti-dumping duty is levied on steel import to protect
domestic industries.
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This duty reduces the volume of International trade. European Union has
also levied anti-dumping duty on textile goods imported from India. Developed
countries have no exception in levying anti-dumping duty. Robert Cohen, in his
paper Grumbling over GATT` published in New York Times, September 1,
1993 has stated that tariffs continue to be one of the most commonly used
barriers to trade, despite the fact that they often hurt low-income consumers and
have limited, if any, impact on upper-income purchasers.
2.3. TARIFF POLICY ARGUMENTS
2.3.1. Terms of trade argument
Imposition of tariff on imports increases the rate at which the country`s
exports are exchanged for imports. Tariff improves the terms of trade.
2.3.2. Bargaining argument
Tariff imports throws light on negotiations in the international trade.
Foreign trade is based on the reciprocal basis. The tariff structure may induce
the countries to provide reciprocal concessions to each other.
2.3.3. Anti-dumping argument
Dumping will affect the market potentials of the domestic industries. It
means selling foreign products at a price less than the price of the domestic
industries. To protect and support the indigenous industry anti-dumping duty is
levied. This duty will make the foreign goods costlier than the goods produced
by the indigenous industry. Thus indigenous industry is protected.
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2.3.4. Diversification argument
The indigenous industry should be diversified to achieve a balanced
growth of economy. All the sectors (Agriculture, Industry, Services) of the
economy should be developed side by side and the development should go hand
in hand. Diversification will contribute to the growth of the indigenous sector.
2.3.5. Infant industry argument
Indigenous industries which are at infant stage should be protected from
the foreign competition. Industries at infant stage cannot compete with the
global competition. Protection should continue till such indigenous industries
reaching the growth stage. Protection to the infant industries will contribute to
their expansion and reduce the costs and prices, which in turn, advantageous to
the industries using the products/services of the protected industries. The
industries started in the backward regions are permitted to avail tax holiday and
other incentives.
2.3.6. Key industries argument
It is the responsibility of the Government to support and protect the key
sectors of the economy. Keeping the key industries (agriculture, steel, heavy
industries etc) under protective tariff regime is one of the basic objectives of the
trade policy.
2.3.7. Employment argument
The tariff protection will reduce import of manufactured goods and
increase the production of the domestic indigenous industries. It is assumed that
the tariff protection will contribute to the growth of the indigenous industries.
Prof. Haberler has analysed the effects of tariffs on the various types of
unemployment. Technological unemployment can be removed by imposing a
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new tariff duty of imports only in the case of one industry, but not in the case of
the entire industrial structure of the economy.
2.3.8. Balance of trade argument
The country will have to impose tariff to achieve surplus of exports over
imports. Keynes has stated that excess of exports over imports raises
employment and income in the country through the expansion of the export
sector and the decline in imports by imposing tariffs. Increase in income will
increase the availability of funds and will reduce interest rate and encourage
investment. The increased investment will help the indigenous industries for
growth and development.
2.3.9. Pauper labour management
Goods produced by the low wage countries will be cheaper than the
goods produced by the high wage countries. If India becomes a high wage
country, imports from the low wage countries will affect the indigenous
industries. In this situation, tariff protection will protect and support the
indigenous sectors.
2.3.10. Keeping money at home argument
When we import goods from the foreign countries we get goods and the
foreign countries will receive money. When we purchase manufactured goods
from the domestic market we get both the goods and the money. Protected tariff
will curtail import and force to buy from the domestic market and the
indigenous sector will grow. The growth of indigenous sector will expand the
domestic market. When the domestic market is under expansion in the protected
tariff regime, the indigenous sector should improve its efficiency to reduce costs
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of production. Indigenous sector should not pass on the cost of inefficiency to
the consumers.
2.3.11. Expanding home market argument
If the imported goods are cheaper than the domestic goods, imported
goods will occupy the domestic market and indigenous industries will be
affected. In order to protect the indigenous industries, high import duty is
imposed on imports. Naturally the home market could be expanded
2.3.12. Equalisation of costs of production argument
If the cost of production of indigenous industry is higher than that of
imported goods adding tariff to the imported goods makes its cost either equal or
higher than the cost of domestic product. Then people will hesitates to buy the
foreign product.
Thus all theses reasons/arguments in support of tariffs indicate how it
could be used as a policy instrument to improve our commercial transactions.
From the above discussions, it is revealed that the protected tariff is one
of the policies to be taken to support and protect the indigenous industries. Tariff
policy is a viable alternative to protect the indigenous industries.
2.4. TARIFF SCHEDULE
2.4.1. Classification: The Indian classification on tariff items follows the
Harmonized Commodity Description and Coding System (Harmonized System
or HS). India has fully adopted HS through the Customs Tariff Amendment Act,
1985. There has been some modification of HS as appropriate to the Indian
environment concerning excise taxes.
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2.4.2. Customs duties:
The Customs Act governs the levying of tariffs on imports and exports
and frames the rules for customs valuation. The Customs Tariff Act specifies the
tariffs rates and provides for the imposition of anti-dumping and countervailing
duties and the like are revised in each annual budget. The April 1993 trade
policy merged the auxiliary duty with the present duty. Total duties on imports
now consist of basic duty (ranging from zero to 65%) plus additional or
countervailing duties (equal to excise duties),. On manufactured luxury items,
total import taxes can amount to 150%
As import duties are quite product specific and may be altered in mid-
year, companies are advised to verify the relevant rates for their products. Rates
are published by the Central Board of Customs and Excise within the Ministry
of Finance`s Department of Revenue. They may be obtained from the public
relations officer (Customs House, Indraprastha Estate, New Delhi, 110 002).
2.5. GATT RULES
We discussed in the previous lesson, 4 rules formulated by GATT 94 to monitor
the use of commercial policy instruments to protect the domestic industry. Let
us see some details on these rules.
2.5.1. Protection by tariffs only (Rule 1)
The GATT `94 has provided that countries may protect their domestic
industries from foreign competition, if it is considered necessary by them. But
the GATT agreement requires the countries to keep such protection at
reasonably low levels and provide them through tariff measures (import duties)
only.
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The principle of protection by tariffs is further reinforced by provisions
of the GATT`94 which prohibit member countries from using quantitative
restrictions (QRs) on imports. Thus, the countries cannot make use of non-tariff
barriers i.e. quantitative restrictions, to protect their domestic industry. The non-
tariff barriers may take the form of import licensing restrictions and / or absolute
quantitative restrictions on the import of specified items.
A country may be permitted by WTO to maintain QRs on imports under
article XVIII-B (shelter under the Balance of Payment clause) of the GATT`94
in case, it is faced with balance of payment difficulties and has to restrict
imports in order to safeguard their external financial position
2.5.2. Reduction in tariffs and binding (Rule 2)
The second rule of international trading is that the import tariffs should
be reduced and wherever possible, eliminated through negotiations among
member countries. The tariffs so reduced should be bound against further
increases. The countries have agreed to bind their import tariff rates under
GATT`94 and not to increase their rates beyond the specified commitments as
given in Schedules of Concessions, appended to the GATT`94
Commitments made by India
As far as India is concerned, India has agreed to undertake the reduction
in import tariffs to a ceiling of 40% ad volume on finished goods and 25% on
intermediate goods, machinery and equipment during the period from March
1995 to 2005. As far as agricultural goods are concerned, India`s bound rates
shall range from 100% to 300% and no commitments have been made regarding
market access, reduction of subsidies or tariffs. Thus, the Government of India
cannot increase the import tariffs beyond the commitments made by it at the
Uruguay Round.
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2.5.3. The Most Favoured Nation (MFN) Clause (Rule 3)
The third basic rule of international trading is embodied in the famous
Most Favoured Nation (MFN) clause. This rule provides that international trade
must not be discriminatory, In simple terms, the MFN principle implies that a
member country shall apply uniformly and unconditionally the import tariffs and
other trade related policy measures in regard to its trade with other member
States of WTO. Accordingly, the normal import tariff rates are known as MFN
rates of import tariff. Thus, if a member country grants to another country any
tariff or other concession, then it must immediately and unconditionally extend
it to the like products of other countries. The MFN principle covers both the
imports and exports.
The obligation to provide MFN treatment applies not only to tariffs but it
also covers changes method of levying tariffs, Rules and formalities and internal
taxes.
There are two exceptions to the MFN rule namely,
a. Regional Preferential Arrangements and
b. One-way Preferential Arrangement
2.5.4. Commitment to the national treatment (Rule 4)
According to this rule member countries are required to treat imported
products on the same footing as similar domestically produced products. Thus, it
is not open to a country to levy on an imported product internal taxes(such as a
sales tax) at rates that are higher than those applied to comparable domestic
products.
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2.5.5. Safeguard Measures
Under GATT`94, the Agreement on safeguard measures authorizes
importing countries to the impose temporary restrictions on imports under the
following conditions:
(i)
imports are causing serious injury` to the domestic industry or
(ii)
imports are hampering the economic development of the specified
industries
2.6. QUOTA POLICY
The quota policy is one of the measures taken to protect the indigenous
industries. Under the quota policy a fixed amount of a commodity in volume or
value is allowed to be imported into the country during a specified period of
time. The basic objective of the import quota is to restrict and regulate imports
for the purpose of protecting the indigenous industries from foreign competition.
There are four types of import quotas. They are, tariff quota, unilateral quota,
bilateral quota and mixing quota.
Under the tariff quota system upto the specified quantity of import, duty
will be minimum. Beyond this quantity, high rate of duty will be levied to curtail
import above the specified limit.
The unilateral quota is fixed by the importing countries without the
consent of the other exporting countries. This quota is fixed unilaterally by the
importing countries to protect the indigenous industries.
The bilateral quota is fixed based on the agreement with one or more
countries. It is also called agreed quotas.
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Mixing quota is decided based on the proportion of imported material
and domestic materials used in the production process and accordingly quota
permission is given to import of the required raw materials.
Import licensing system administers the quota policy. The quantity of
materials to be imported in a year is decided based on the quota policy. The
licensing system administers the import of materials/finished goods by issue of
import licenses to the importers. Subsidies and concessions also help to protect
domestic industries.
2.7. QR REMOVAL
We have seen that Quantitative Restrictions (QR) are limits set by
countries to curb imports. Quantitative Restrictions are also called quotas.
Ceiling on how much of certain specific products can be imported every year is
prescribed under quota. These ceilings are managed by Central Government
which issues licenses that allow the import of specific quantities of goods
Quantitative Restrictions can be managed by import canalization also that is
allowing a few players to import specific goods from foreign countries.
The Government of India lifted Quantitative Restrictions for the import
of 714 items in 2000 and 715 items in 2001. An analysis of QR removal for the
year 2001 would indicate the major and minor are as from which QRs have been
removed.
The first three categories and the number of items are as follows:
Category
No. of Items
1. Textiles
331
2. Vehicles and floating structures
88
3. Vegetable products, Animal/vegetables fats & oils
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According to India`s original WTO commitments, all quantitative
restrictions would have been phased out by 2003, but a dispute with the US has
made to advance the removal of QRs by 2001 instead of 2003. The US had
argued at the WTO`s dispute settlement board that India`s QR removal schedule
was too protracted. India lost the case, and in an agreement reached with the US
in December 1999 agreed to remove all QRs in two stages by April 1, 2001.
As agreed quantitative restrictions for the import of 1429 items, (714
first phase in 2000 and 715 second phase in 2001) have been and made open for
the import. India has become an open economy that does not ban import of any
product.
Removing QRs will help all consumers, whether rich or poor, it will
make both Indian and foreign companies to bridge the quality gap between
products sold in India and abroad.
2.8. IMPACT STUDY
Dr TR Gurumoorthy made an Impact study and analysed the effects of
removal of QRs. For example the review for Textiles is as shown below.
Sector/type of goods
Textiles
Import Cost and Conditions
Custom Duty 35%
Impact
Non-branded garments of foreign countries will occupy Indian market. Branded
garments are costly. There was no heavy import of branded garments.
2.8.1. Impact
International brands for cosmetics, food beverages, appliances, clothing,
automobiles etc are produced and marketed in India. So there is no need to
import such items. Hence there was no surge in imports after removing QRs
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In Indian import basket, there was an increasing trend in annual growth
rate of POL import. It was 64.1 percent in 1999-00 and 74.7 percent in 2000-01
(7 months).
The percentage growth of total imports in 2000-01 (April-Feb) compared
to the previous year 1999-2000 was 6.65 percent only. It was more than this
level in the years before 1999-2000. So removal of QR has not created any surge
in imports.
The gap between value of imports and forex reserve was narrowed over a
period of time and removal of QR may not create any adverse impact in India`s
BOP position. The gap between value of imports and forex reserve was 41% in
1996, 32% in 1997, 23% in 1999, 10% in 2000 and 2% in 2001 (31st January).
After removing QRs in first phase 714 items in April 2000, it was
predicted that imports will increase heavily. But import growth is reduced.
Foreign trade statistics shows that trade deficit in 2000-01 (April-Jan) was
US$6.2 billion. But in pre-removal of QR in 1997-98, 1998-99 and 1999-2000
trade deficits were at US $6.4 billion, US $9.1 billion and US $9.6billion
respectively.
There was no danger of hefty rise in the import bill on account of
removal of QRs.
2.8.2 Safeguards
Import duty was raised to curb imports. The Union Budget (2000-2001)
provided adequate protection in terms of tariffs on most of the newly
deregulated imports. The import duties on agriculture consumer goods like tea,
coffee, edible oils, sugar etc. were increased to 70% to 80% against 35% in the
previous budget. Import duty for second hand car import is 180%. Import of cars
older than three years has been scotched. Foreign goods can be imported only
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through state trading corporations. Import of all food products would be subject
to biological and genetic norms and rules.
A standing group was constituted to suggest suitable measures to protect
the domestic industry if there is surge in imports of sensitive items. The
Government has also taken measures to ensure that imports comply with
standards imposed by the Bureau of Indian Standards on all domestic items.
Check Your Progress. I
1. The two types of barriers are (a) _______________ (b) ______________
2. The thing major types of tariffs are (a) ___________________
(b)__________ ______________ (c)_____________________
3. The four types of quota system are:
(a) _________________________ (b) ________________________
(c) _________________________ (d) _______________________
4. The number of QRs removed in 2001 is __________________________
2.9 ANTI-DUMPING PRACTICES (ADP); SUBSIDES AND
COUNTER VAILING MEASURES (SCM)
The GATT rules provide for imposition of two different measures for dealing
with unfair trade practices which distort conditions of fair trade competition:
(i)
The competition may be unfair if the exported goods benefit from
subsidies and
(ii)
The conditions of competition may be distorted if exported goods are
dumped in foreign markets.
2.9.1. Definitions
What is an anti-dumping duty?
An anti-dumping duty is a special duty to offset the margin of dumping on
dumped imports that are causing, or threatening to cause, material injury to
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domestic producers of like products. The margin of dumping is equal to the
difference between the normal value of the product (generally the price charged
in the exporter`s home market or the full cost of production of the product) and
the export price of the product. Unlike a countervail investigation, therefore,
anti-dumping investigations focus on the pricing behavior of individual foreign
companies.
What is a countervailing duty?
A countervailing duty is a special duty to offset the amount of subsidy on
subsidized imports that are causing, or theaterning to cause, material injury to
domestic producers of like products. Subsidizing occurs when foreign producers
receive financial contributions from their governments, which enable them to
sell at lower prices in the marketplace. Unlike an antidumping investigation,
therefore, countervailing duty investigations focus on the subsidy practices of
foreign governments.
The Agreement on Anti-dumping Practices (ADP) and the Agreement on
Subsidies and Countervailing Measures (SCM) enable countries to levy
compensatory duties on the imports of products that are benefiting from unfair
trade practices. The duties so levied are known as anti-dumping duties and
countervailing duties respectively.
2.9.2. Dumping of goods
Normally it refers to thrusting all low-cost imports as dumping of goods.
But the agreement on ADP lays down a strict criterion for the determination of
dumping of goods. According to article 2.1 of the Agreement on ADP, a product
is considered to be dumped if its export price is less than the price at which a
like product is sold for consumption in the exporting country.
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This is done by comparing the export price and the home consumption
price in the exporting country. It is found that the later price is higher, the
product could be treated as being dumped.
An importing country can levy countervailing duties on subsidized
imports and anti-dumping duties on dumped imports only if it is established on
the basis of investigations that such imports are causing "material injury" to a
domestic industry. The Agreements on ADP and SCM lay down the similar
criterion for determining injury and for carrying out investigations on the basis
of the petitions for the levy of anti-dumping and countervailing duties.
The two agreements referred to above have laid down an important
principle that the compensatory duties in the form of countervailing duties on
subsidized imports and anti-dumping duties on dumped imports cannot be levied
solely on the ground that the product has benefited from subsidy or that it is
being dumped.
They can be levied only if it is established after an investigation,
which must normally be initiated on the request of a domestic industry, that
dumped or subsidized imports are causing "material injury" to that
industry.
2.9.3. Request for Investigation
The investigating authorities should initiate action for investigations only
if the application is supported by the requisite number of producers. These
articles lay down two complementary criteria for this purpose namely,
(a) The producers supporting the application must account for over 50% of
the production of the producers who express an opinion either in support
of, or against, the petition.
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(b) The producers supporting the application should account for at least 25%
of the industry`s total production.
2.9.4. Determination of Material Injury
The Agreement on ADP and the Agreement on SCM state that injury to
the domestic industry is caused if it is established on the basis of the
investigations that:
(a) There has been a significant increase in dumped or subsidized imports,
either in absolute terms or relative to production or consumption; or
(b) The prices of such imports have undercut those of the like domestic
product, have depressed the price of the like product or have prevented
that price from increasing; and
(c) As a result, injury is caused to the domestic industry or there is a threat
of injury to the domestic industry of the importing country.
2.9.5. Factors determining injury
More injury to the domestic industry is not enough; there must be the
causal link between dumped, subsidized imports and injury to the domestic
industry. This should be established after taking into account the impact of
various economic factors having a direct bearing on the state of the industry.
These factors, as stated in the two agreements, are as follows:
(a) Actual or potential decline in output, sales, market share, profits,
productivity, return on investments, or utilization of capacity;
(b) Effects on domestic prices;
(c) Actual or potential effects on cash flow, inventories, employment,
wages, and growth, ability to raise capital or investments.
In the case of anti-dumping investigations, one of the other factors to be
taken into account is the magnitude of the margin of dumping. Likewise in
investigations for the levy of countervailing duties on imports of agricultural
products, an additional factor to be taken into account is whether there has been
an increased burden on government support programmes.
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Countervailing or anti-dumping duties should not be levied, if the main
factors responsible for the difficulties of the industry are factors other than
subsidized or dumped imports.
It is obligatory under the agreements on ADP and SCM that the
investigating authorities in the importing country provide opportunity to the
exporting firms, the concerned trade or business association, and the government
of the country of export to defend their interests.
The exporting firms are required to provide the information on the cost
of production and other matters on the basis of a questionnaire sent by the
investigating authorities.
The Government of India has established a Directorate of Anti-dumping
Duties headed by a Director General under the Ministry of Commerce to look
into the complaints of the industry for the levy of Anti-dumping duties and
Countervailing duties.
Check Your Progress: 2
5. Anti-dumping investigations focus on ________________________
6. Countervailing investigations focus on ________________________
7. _____________________ looks after complaints on Anti-dumping and
Countervailing duties.
2.10. SUMMARY
The
definitions
the
concepts
of
Tariff,
Quotas,
Anti-
dumping/Countervailing duties were explained The need and procedures for all
these commercial policy Instruments were discussed. An impact study on
removal of QR was analysed. The difference between antidumping duty and
countervailing duty was also discussed. The procedures for investigations on
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these two issues were described You may refer to websites, especially FAQS to
get details and more information
2.11. ANSWERS
(1) (a) Tariff (h) Non-tariff
(2) (a) specific duty (b) ad valorem duty (c) Compound duty.
(3) (a) Tariff quota (b) unilateral quota (c) bilateral quota (d) mixing quota
(4) 715, (5) Pricing behaviour, (6) Subsidy practices, (7) Directorate of Anti-
dumping duties
2.12. KEYWORDS
GATT:
General Agreement on Tariff and Trade
Tariff:
Duty on imports and exports
Quota:
Fixing the amount of commodity in volume or value
Dumping:
Thrusting low cost goods
2.13. REFERENCES
1.
Gupta. R.K., Anti-dumping and Countervailing measures, Sage
Publication, New Delhi.
2.
Khurana. P.K., Export Management, Galgotia Publishing Co, New Delhi
3.
Nabhi`s Exporters Manual and Documentation, Nabhi Publications, New
Delhi
4.
www.ntc.gov.pk
5.
http://finance.indiamart.com
2.14. QUESTIONS
1.
Define: Tariff, Quota, anti-dumping duty, Countervailing duty.
2.
Explain various arguments for tariff.
3.
Distinguish tariff and non tariff barriers
4.
What are different types of tariffs? Explain
5.
Describe 4 rules of GATT 1994.
6.
What are the different types of Quota systems?
7.
Analyse the impact of removal of QRs.
8.
Differentiate Anti-dumping duty from Countervailing duty.
9.
Describe
the
procedures
adopted
before
imposing
Anti-
dumping/Countervailing duties.
10.
Analyse application of the Commercial Policy Instruments by Developed
Countries like USA.
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Lesson 3
TECHNICAL STANDARDS
Objectives
To understand the techniques of labelling, packaging, packing and
marking.
To explain the preshipment Inspection formalities and its need.
To comprehend the quality management techniques and the ISO 9000 :
2000 standards.
Structure
3.1 Introduction
3.2 Labelling, Packaging, Packing and Marking
3.3 Pre-shipment Inspection
3.4 Quality Management Technical Standards
3.5 Summary
3.6 Keywords
3.7 Answers
3.8 References
3.9 Questions
3.1 INTRODUCTION
Among various Commercial Policy Instruments (CPI), Technical
Standards would play a significant role in exporting products. The major
aspects of Technical Standards are (a) Labelling, packaging, packing and
marking (b) Pre-shipment Inspection and (c) Quality Management System like
ISO:9000, by the (International organization for standards)
In fact, the application of these three must be in the reverse order of
action. That is, first, we must know all details about producing our commodities
in conformity with national / international standards.
Then, to confirm that they are according to the Technical Standards, pre-
shipment Inspections (PSI) is essential.
Once the products are ready to be exported, we should adopt the
principles of labelling, packaging, packing and marking. This part of the work
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is the starting point o f satisfying the importers. If the external technical
standards in packaging, packing etc., are not followed, there would be rejection
of the products, as they might get damaged and dissatisfy the importers.
Thus, if we sincerely and strictly adopt these technical standards, they
become export promoting commercial other Instruments.
If we are not adopting, them, then the standards become non-tariff
barriers and hinder export.
All these three areas have more specific and minute details to be
followed. In this lesson, we will discuss important and major measures from the
point of view of them, as Commercial Policy Instruments. More practical
information could be obtained from specific topical books and visits to export
industries.
3.2 LABELLING, PACKAGING, PACKING AND MARKING
3.2.1 Labelling
Labelling is the act of fixing labels on the export product. Its main
purpose is to inform the consumer essential details in respect of the product as
regards its quantity, quality, how to use and maintain it. Many a time, the
foreign buyers demand a particular type of label to comply with the regulations
of their countries. Different countries have different regulations as regards
labeling of the product. One of the most common regulations is in respect of
origin of the goods i.e. a product must carry the label to indicate the country in
which it has been manufactured.
3.2.2 Information on a Label
Every label should contain the following information:
Information to satisfy the legal requirements of a particular country.
Instructions for taking care of the product.
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Dimensions of the product i.e., size weight, thickness etc.
Inputs used i.e., the contents of the materials use in the manufacture of
the product.
Instructions of the use of the product.
Country of origin.
Name and address of the manufacturer.
Lot number of the consignment.
Date of manufacture and date of its expiry.
Brief information about those who made it. It is particularly relevant in
the case of items of handicrafts or other creative items.
3.2.3 Forms of Labels
Form of Label could be: Strip of cloth, Card label, Adhesive sticker, User`s
manual.
A good quality label has the following features:
It includes all the relevant information.
It is printed in the language of the importer`s country.
It is appropriate to the product. For instance, a label in the form of
adhesive sticker on a leather purse or on a wooden article would not
be appropriate as it would damage the product.
It should be developed taking into consideration the colour and shape
preferences of the prospective buyers.
E.g.: Black makes negative impact on Singapore, Japan etc. Green is
welcomed by Muslim countries, red has negative impact on Africans.
Japans consider 1, 3, 5 and 8 as having positive effect; Triangle package
is not liked by Korea.
You would have seen GINETEX (International Association for
Textile Care) Labels on imported garments with standard symbols.
3.2.4 Packaging and Packing
Packaging refers to a container in which the product reaches the end use
consumer. It is a part of the presentation of the product and stays right till the
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customer takes it from the retail store. It should not he confused with packing.
Packing refers to the external protective covering use for the safe transportation
of the goods to the importer.
For example, plastic box used to pack a set of embroidered
handkerchiefs is an example of packaging. On the other hand, the corrugated
fiber board boxes which are used for packing the plastic boxes for their safe
transportation to the importer in the foreign country would represent packing.
3.2.5 Packaging Functions
Packaging of goods for exports performs the following functions:
The product is broken down into saleable units in terms of size or
weight or any other dimension relevant to that product.
It protects the product during transportation, storage, display and
use.
It conveys a message about handling of the product to the
transporter / buyer / consumer during transport, storage, display
and use.
3.2.6 Packaging Design
The design of the packaging should be developed very carefully to
ensure that:
The product is environment friendly to produce and dispose off.
It is safe to handle during transportation.
It is economical to produce, handle and store.
It is very attractive when displayed.
It is convenient and safe to use in compliance with the relevant
standards of the target export market.
3.2.7 Packaging Materials
There are various types of materials available for packaging of the
goods. Broadly, the selection of the packaging materials would depend upon the
following factors:
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Product characteristics.
Transportation and storage methods.
Climate and culture.
Standards and environmental considerations.
Market position.
3.2.8 Kinds of Packaging
Plastic packaging, Paper based packaging, combined plastic and card
board packaging, Miscellaneous packaging could be done according to the
nature and needs of the products package.
3.2.9 Packaging Needs
The packing arises due to the fact that there are many stress and risks
involved during the transportation of goods from the exporter to the importer.
Stacking and storage of goods in the factory while waiting for
loading on the truck or freight container.
The boxes are loaded onto the truck and are transported by road
to the nearest airport / sea port.
The boxes are unloaded and are stored at the airport / sea port.
The goods are packed into the freight container or loaded on the
plane / ship.
Sailing of the ship to the port of destination.
Unloading of the containers at the port of discharge.
The palletized goods are transferred with a forklift truck to a
warehouse.
3.2.10 Packing Functions
The various functions of packing are as follows:
It holds the product for the total duration of the transport and
distribution chain.
It protects the product from getting broken or being otherwise
spoilt.
It makes the transport and handling of the product as easy as
possible.
It informs various people in the transport a distribution chain.
It is also the task of the packing to make the transport and
distribution of the product economical.
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3.2.11 Types of packing boxes
Depending on the use of materials, the export boxes can be classified
into the following:
Corrugated fiberboard boxes
Wooden boxes and crates
Miscellaneous boxes such as gunny bags or steel drums
Proper containers should be used, cushioning materials should be
used.
All special type of packing should be done to avoid mould, mildew and
corrosion. Packaging and Packing materials should also meet environmental
requirements as insisted by importing countries.
3.2.12 Marking on the export boxes
The exporters should properly mark the export boxes in order to ensure
their proper identification, correct handling and delivery to the consignee. You
would have seen symbols to indicate top of the parcel, to keep dry (umbrella)
etc.
Types of Marking
There are three different types of markings namely:
1. Shipping marks
2. Information marks
3. Handling marks
According to nature and need, proper markings must be made.
Check your Progress-1
Packaging and Packing are same. True
False
Black colour is considered to have negative impact in Japan. True False
There are
types of marking.
3.3 PRE-SHIPMENT INSPECTION
3.3.1 Need
Pre-shipment Inspection and ISO: 9000 are discussed in detail in the other paper
on Exim Financing and Documentation. Here we consider salient features of
these two policy instruments.
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3.3.2 What is Quality?
Quality of a product is defined as a set of attributes or specifications
including packaging specifications in relation to a given product. It is the
manufacturer who first decides the quality of a product before introducing it in
the market. This may be done keeping in view the national or the international
standards of quality as laid down by the respective national or international
standards bodies.
The goods should be properly inspected to ensure that the quality of the
export goods is maintained as desired by the buyers. Goods of poor quality spoil
not only their own market but also bring bad name to the image of the country
itself. It is, thus, in the business interest of the exporter to send shipment of the
right quality to the buyer. This would also facilitate effective penetration. The
Government of India had recognized the need for effective pre-shipment
inspection in 1963 itself when the Export (Quality Control and Inspection) Act,
1963 was enacted to provide for sound development of the export trade through
quality control and pre-shipment inspection.
3.3.3 Types of Pre-shipment inspection
There are primarily two different types of pre-shipment inspection namely:
1. Voluntary Inspection
2. Compulsory Inspection
Voluntary Inspection
The following are the different forms of voluntary pre-shipment inspection:
By the exporter himself
By the buyer`s representative
By the buying agent in the exporter`s country
By the inspection agencies in the private sector
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Compulsory Inspection
Compulsory pre-shipment inspection is conducted by the following agencies
of the Government of India:
Export Inspection Council through its Export Inspection Agencies
Textile committee
Development Commissioner (Handicrafts)
Central Silk Board
3.3.4 Requisites for PSI
An effective system for the inspection of quality should provide for the
following:
Standards for quality of export product.
Testing facilities and
Procedural details
3.3.5 PSF by EIA
Products for compulsory PSI
The Government of India has notified 1057 items for compulsory pre-
shipment inspection. These items relate to the product groups of:
Engineering products.
Chemicals and allied products.
Food and agriculture products.
Jute and jute products.
Coir and coir products.
Footwear and footwear components.
Cashew.
Fish and fish products.
Miscellaneous products.
3.3.6 Inspection System
The Inspection Agency EIA provides for pre-shipment inspection under
the following three different systems of inspection:
Consignment-wise Inspection
In-Process Quality Control (IPQC)
Self-Certificate Scheme.
In-process quality control (IPQC) system
The controls to ensure quality are exercised in relation to the following
stages under this system:
Raw materials and bought out components control
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Production process control
Finished product control
Metrological control
Preservation control
Packing control
3.3.7 Self Certification system
Under the system of Self Certification, the manufacturing units which
have proven record of maintenance of quality are given the facility of self
certification so that they can issue pre-shipment inspection certificate
themselves. The unit should be well equipped with testing facilities and the
required quality control systems.
Product quality
Design and development
Raw materials/bought out components
Organization and personal for quality control
Process control
Laboratory for control
Metrology
Quality audit
Packaging
After sales service
House keeping and maintenance
3.3.8 Exemptions from Pre-shipment Inspection
Units / products exempt from the requirement of compulsory pre-
shipment inspection are as follows:
Export House, Trading House, Star Trading House and the Super Star
Trading House
100 % Export Oriented Units and the units set up in the Expoert
Processing Zones or Free Trade Zones
Items notified under the Export (Quality Control & Inspection) Act,
1963.
Products bearing ISI mark or the AGMARK for exports.
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3.3.9 Pre-shipment Inspection by Textile Committee
The Government of India has set up the Textile Committee under the
Textile Committee Act, 1963 to provide for sound development of the export of
ready made garments and other textile products like yarn, fabrics, made ups etc.,
through quality control and pre-shipment inspection. The head office of the
Textile Committee is located at Mumbai with its regional offices in different
parts of India.
3.3.10 Pre-shipment inspection by development commissioner (Handicrafts)
Development Commissioner (Handicrafts), Ministry of Textiles conducts
pre-shipment inspection in respect of the export of India Items as provided under
the Multi fiber Arrangement (MFA).
3.3.11 PSI by the Central silk board
There is a requirement of the pre-shipment inspection in those cases
where the inputs had been imported for the export product under the Duty
Exemption Scheme. The system of inspection is the same as followed by the
Export Inspection Agency. The export firm should have the Registration cum
Membership Certificate (RCMC) from, the Indian Silk Export Promotion
Council before approaching the Central Silk Board for the issue of pre-shipment
inspection certificate.
3.3.12 Fumigation
The export of goods prone to insect infestation in storage and transit are
subjected to compulsory fumigation to ensure that the goods reach their
destination in safe condition. Such goods include de-oiled rice bran, crashed
bones, hooves and horns.
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3.4 QUALITY SYSTEMS
3.4.1 Need and benefit of quality system
The intense competition at the market place has brought into sharper
focus the need for gaining the confidence of the customer in the firm and its
products. The confidence (of the customer) in the firm as a reliable supplier of
goods can be gained by providing him consistently with better quality products.
The introduction of quality system in an enterprise can be used as a
marketing tool to generate customer satisfaction. Other benefits are:
Competitive edge in the domestic as well as foreign markets.
Can save resources as the quality systems ensure efficient and sound
procedures.
Reduction in the wastage of resources and the time consumed in rework
and repairs. This results in increasing the amount of profits for the
enterprise.
Efficient tool to achieve and ensure consistent quality improvement.
Confidence to the consumers as regards quality of the goods.
Reduce the cost of production and offer the goods at low prices.
3.4.2 Quality management system standard: ISO 9000:2000
The international Organisation for Standardization (ISO) had developed
in 1987 a series of international quality systems standards popularly known as
ISO 9000 series of standards to provide the framework for the third party
certification of the quality systems. These systems were revised in 1994.
The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) had also launched the Third Party
Certification Scheme of Quality System known as IS:14000 later changed to
(ISO:IS:9000) series of standards in India. This series of standards provide an
assurance that the quality system installed and operated conform to the
international standards and will generate the confidence of the customer in the
quality offered by the firm.
The ISO 9000 series of standards were first published in India by BIS in
1988 and subsequently revised in 1994 as IS/ISO 9000 series of standards
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(IS/ISO 9001, 9002, 9003 etc.) with totally identical text as published by
International Organisation for Standardisation.
3.4.3 Features of ISO 9000:2000 Standards
The essential features of the ISO-9000:2000 series of standards are as
follows:
They call for integration of all the activities which have a direct or
indirect effect on the quality of a product or service.
They tell suppliers and manufacturers as to what is expected of them in
respect of a quality-oriented working system
These standards define the basic concepts and specify the procedures and
criteria to ensure that the final product meets the customer`s
requirements.
These standards are designed to be user-friendly and are applicable to
every product and service.
These standards call for verification of quality system by the customer
which gives him the confidence that the organization is capable of
delivering the products of services of desired quality.
3.4.4 Elements of quality management system
The following are the elements:
Documentation
Management responsibility
Responsibility, Authority and Communication
Management review
Resource management
Product realization
Customer-related processes
Review of requirements related to the product
Customer communication
Design and dev elopement
Purchasing
Production and service provision
Control of monitoring and measuring devices
Measurement, Analysis and Improvement
Corrective action
Preventive action
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3.4.5 Certification Procedures in India
Any business enterprise desirous of obtaining certification under ISO-
9000 series of standards can apply to the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS),
Bahadur Shah Zafar Marg, New Delhi.
The process of certification
The following steps should be followed:
Adequacy audit
Preliminary visit
Assessment fee
Assessment
Opening meeting
3.4.6 Conditions for the Grant of Licence
The licence is granted subject to the following conditions:
The licence is granted for a period of there years.
Grant of licence is followed by surveillance visits once in six months by
the Auditor(s) of BIS to verify the effective implementation and
maintenance of the quality system established by the firm.
During the operation of licence, when a licensee fails to observe the
conditions, licence is liable for suspension.
Check your Progress: 2
1. There are primarily ________________ types of PSI.
2. Cashew comes under Compulsory PSI True
false
3. BIS stands for ____________________.
3.5. SUMMARY
The first impression is the best impression. In this respect labeling,
packaging and packing play a vital role in impressing the consumer and
importer. Further, it enhances the value of the product and exporter by
protecting the products using proper labels and packing materials. Marking
helps safe handling of the packs / boxes.
Strict quality control alone can keep high the image of India when India
products are exported. In order to ensure this, Pre shipment Inspection is useful.
The types of PSI and produces were discussed.
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Pre shipment inspection and quality management systems are connected
to each other ISO: 9000:2000 helps as a bench mark of International guidelines
for maintaining quality. PSI helps to implement these guidelines in practice.
The combination helps to provide quality products and promote exports and
given quality products to the importer. Both are satisfied.
3.6. KEY WORDS
Packaging : The Container` in which the product purchase the end use
consumer.
Packing
: External protective covering used for safe transportation like
big boxes cartons, bags, etc.
Marking
: Indications marked on the external packing to keep them safe.
to handle with care (fragile), keep dry, etc.
IPQC
: In process quality control.
TQM
: Total Quality Management.
PSI
: Pre Shipment Inspection.
ISO
: International Organisation for Standards.
(International Standards Organisation)
BIS
: Bureau of Indian Standards.
3.7. ANSWERS
(1) False
(2) True
(3) 3
(4) 2
(5) True
(6) Bureau of Indian Standards.
3.8. REFERENCE
Khurana. R.K. Export Management, Gal golia, New Delhi.
International Trade Centre UNCTAD / WTO, Switzerland for ISO 9000
Management system.
Hand Book of Procedures, DGFT, New Delhi.
3.9. QUESTIONS
1. Define the following concepts
(a) Labelling
(b) Packaging
(c) Packing
(d) Marking
(e) PSI
(f) ISO : 9000
2. Explain the need for labeling, Packaging, packing and marking in
International Trade.
3. How the packaging should be designed.
4. What are packaging functions.
5. What are different types of PSI?
6. List out the product groups for compulsory PSI.
7. What are the aspects to be considered for self certification?
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Lesson 4
EXCHANGE CONTROLS AND NON-TARIFF MEASURES
Objectives
To comprehend the concepts of exchange control, exchange rate.
To understand the objectives, methods and administrative procedures for
exchange control.
To examine the organizational flow of control with regard to exchange
control.
To know control of exchange rate measures
To differentiate various types of non-tariff barriers.
Structure
4.1 Introduction
4.2 Exchange control
4.3 Non-tariff barriers
4.4 Summary
4.5 Keywords
4.6 Answers
4.7 Books for further study
4.8 Questions
4.1 INTRODUCTION
4.1.1 Need
Exchange control means controlling foreign exchange transaction in
India. It is a system of conserving national wealth or increasing it. Our stability
in the international market, and the respect which the currency of a country will
command depend on the soundness of the exchange control. This also acts as a
commercial policy instrument and affects free trade and acts as a barrier.
4.1.2 Historic Perspective
The patterns of world trade and global economics have undergone
tremendous changes just like national frontiers after the two wars.
In India, Exchange control was introduced on the outbreak of the Second
World War. On September 3, 1939, exchange control originated in India with
provisions of Defense of India Act 1939, to help the U.K.`s war efforts and it
105
was relating to transactions between India and then non-sterling area countries.
The huge sterling balance accumulated on India`s account in London during the
war years were frozen by U.K. Government at the end of the war. After
independence, India needed foreign exchange mostly to meet the requirements
of her developing economy. But the freezing by UK affected this. The
country`s sources of foreign exchange earnings were limited to the exports of a
few traditional commodities like tea, jute, etc. Thus, the freezing of the sterling
balance and the needed imports of plant and machinery, raw materials,
foodstuff, etc., led to large deficits in India`s balance of payments, even when
the country`s foreign balances were supplemented by borrowing from abroad.
In order to conserve the country`s scarce foreign exchange resources for
use to the best national advantage according to a scheme of priorities and to
correct the balance of payments deficits, the war-time measure was continued,
taking advantage of the provisions of Article XIV of the IMF Agreement, as a
peace-time control system under the Foreign Exchange Regulation Act, 1947,
effective from March 25, 1945. This Act has since been replaced by the Foreign
Exchange Regulation Act, 1973. The operations of the Exchange Control
system have now come to encompass transactions with all countries outside
India excepting Nepal and Bhutan.
4.2 EXCHANGE CONTROL
4.2.1 Definition
Exchange Control means official interference in the foreign exchange
dealings of a country. The control may extend over a wide area, covering the
import and export of goods and services, remittances from the country, inflow
and outflow of capital, rate of exchange, methods of payment, maintenance of
balance in foreign centers, acquisition and holding of foreign securities,
financial relationship between residents and non-residents, etc.
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Exchange control, in short, involves a rationing of foreign exchange
among various competing demand for it, and is effected through control of
receipts, or of payments, or of both as in India. The control of receipts is
intended to centralize the country`s means of external payments in a common
pool in the hands of its monetary authorities to facilitate use thereof, and the
control of payments is intended to restrain the demand for foreign exchange to
protect the national interests within the limits of available resources.
4.2.2 Objectives
The main objects of exchange control are to maintain the value of the
country`s currency in terms of other currencies and to bring about and maintain
equilibrium in the country`s balance of payments, as far as possible.
4.2.3 Methods
Besides the control on the import and export of goods, the other
methods, used for exchange control are:
a) Control of the exchange rate, i.e., fixing the exchange rate of the
country`s currency in terms of other currencies, exchange pegging, etc.
b) Fixing currency areas, which means, fixing the currencies in which
payments for imports and exports should be made and received, to and
from specified countries. Such fixing, by restricting the convertibility of
home currency in terms of other currencies, help the growth of foreign
exchange resources in approved currencies considered necessary in the
national interest.
c) Bilateral agreements, which means, trade agreements between two
countries contracted principally for the purpose of avoiding the balance
of payments deficits.
4.2.4. Administration
The Exchange Control policy is determined by the Ministry of Foreign
Trade, Government of India, on the basis of the Foreign Exchange Regulation
Act, 1973, as amended by FERA 1993, while the day-to-day administration
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thereof is given to the Reserve Bank. This act has been modified as Foreign
Exchange Management Act (FEMA) 1995. You will be studying in detail about
Exchange control measures in Forex management paper. In order to achieve the
objectives of the Control, the Exchange Control Department works in
Coordination with the Trade control authorities who control the import and
export of goods.
Various types of transactions which are affected by the Foreign
Exchange Regulation Act are:
Purchases and sales of and other dealing in foreign exchange and
maintenance of balances at foreign centres.
Export and Import of currency, Cheques, Drafts, travellers
cheques and other financial instruments, securities, jewellery etc.
Import formalities and procedure for realization of exports
Transfer of securities between residents and non-residents and
acquisition and holding of foreign securities and
Payments to non-residents or to their accounts in India
Foreign travel with exchange
Branches of foreign firm, FDI, foreign agents, joint
ventures/subsidiaries
Foreign nationals
Acquisition of property outside India by Indians
The exchanges Regulations Control have two major channels of control
(1)
Statutory
(2)
Statistical
The Act lays down certain rules to be strictly followed namely the Do`s
and Don`ts of the law, laid down the Reserve Bank of India in consultation with
the Government of India. Periodical notifications are issued regarding the
amendments.
The regulations regarding Import and Export, although the basic
statutory aspect is contained in the Exchange Control Manual, certain larger
principles are controlled and monitored by the Controller of Imports and Exports
and are kept periodically reviewed each year. These are contained in the
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Handbook of Import procedures and its enclosures published every year by the
Government of India.
The exchange Control Manual is the bible for the ADs, ADs have to
keep themselves abreast of the amendments to the statutory points furnished to
them by the Reserve Bank of India in the form of A.D. circulars.
The chart shows how the exchange control is enforced practically and
the various agencies involved.
109
A heavy responsibility rests on the Ads in not only interpreting the Rules
laid down but to ensure that they (Bank) are thoroughly satisfied regarding (a)
correctness of the statements made on the forms and (b) bonafides of the
application. The Ads are expected to ensure that Exchange Control regulations
are observed by themselves and their constituents both in letter and spirit.
The Directorate of Enforcement is the apex authority for adjudications
and prosecutions for infringements of the Foreign Exchange Regulation Act and
for a proper functioning of this Department and also to enable the Government
to formulate its policies for subsequent periods, the statistical information
conveyed by the public, through the ADs in various forms which are further
codified as Returns by the Banks, is thus of vital importance. The information
part should be given its due importance. The statistical feedback is the backbone
for the effective operation of exchange control especially in the context of the
fastly changing economy in the country and in the world. With the information
supplied by the Banks, those in authority not only draw up the Balance of Trade
for the country as a whole but also the Balance of payments in respect of each
country and are called upon to take vital decisions regarding rates, quantum of
trade and patterns of trade for the future.
Banks should pay equal attention to both the statutory and statistical
angles of exchange control. It should also report to the Reserve Bank of India
any case which may come to their notice of evasion of, or attempts, either direct
or indirect of the Foreign Exchange Regulation Act.
4.2.5 Control of Exchange Earning
(a) Every person, firm, company or authority in India earning foreign
exchange expressed in any currency other than the currency of Nepal and
Bhutan by the export of goods or services or in any other way is required to
110
surrender the foreign exchange to an AD and obtain payment in rupees within 3
months from the date of acquisition. This will help controlling forex.
(b) By its notification No. FERA 47/77-RB and FERA 48/77-RB of 24th
November 1977, under Sections 8 and 9 of the FERA 1973, respectively, the
Reserve Bank has made it obligatory for any person acquiring foreign exchange
by way of income on assets held outside India, inheritance, settlement, gift,
remuneration for services or by way of payments made on behalf of persons
resident outside India, or any foreign exchange sent to or brought into India- to
offer the same for sale to an AD within seven days from the date of receipt in or
being brought to India.
Exceptions
Foreign exchange held by ADs, RBI authorized forex, NRI`s lawful
income outside India, coins, for numismatic purpose ($500), and forex for
personal purpose ($500).
(c) The export of goods other than those essentially needed for use
within the country as listed in Schedule 1 to the Export (Control) Order, 1968, or
under deferred payment arrangements is free, which means it may be made
without any permit or license. But the exporters are required to declare the
export value of the goods before they are shipped and to lodge the shipping
document for the collection of the export proceeds with an AD. The AD, in his
turn, has to report the collection or non-collection, to the Reserve Bank in due
course.
(d) The reserve Bank has listed the currencies in which payment for
exports can be received. Thus, the export of goods from shipment till receiving
of payment as well as the currency in which such payments can be received is
under control.
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4.2.6 Control over expenditure
(a) The spending of foreign exchange is almost fully controlled. Except
for the few items listed in the Open General Licence (OGL) in operation for the
time being, goods can be imported from outside India only against a licence.
Such licences are issued by the Import Trade Control authorities (Chief
Controller of Imports and Exports). The receipt into India of goods of a value
equivalent to the amount of foreign currency paid out abroad is looked after by
the Reserve Bank.
The import policy is framed by the Central Government, and the import
licence, granted by the Import Trade Control authorities, permitting import of
goods, carries with it permission to pay for them, while the Reserve Bank
prescribes the currencies as well as the manner in which payment should be
made.
(b) The licensing authority for the import of services, or for remittances
otherwise than in payment of imported goods, or for the foreign exchange
required for foreign travel, is the Reserve Bank and in some cases, the
Government of India. The control is exercised through permits granted by the
Reserve Bank against an application on a prescribed form.
(c) The issue of forex in any form, such as travelers cheques, notes coins
etc, the persons resident in India even under instructions from an overseas
branch/correspondent of an A.D requires prior permission of RBI.
4.2.7 Control of exchange rate
Exchange rates were controlled by RBI. On March 1, 1992 Liberalised
Exchange Rate Management System (LERMS) was announced. US dollar was
adopted as intervention currency. Dual exchange rate system was adopted: 60%
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forex earnings were converted at market rate and 40% were converted at official
rate quoted by RBI.
This was abolished from March 1993 and the rupee was allowed to float
relatively. The external value of rupee was determined entirely by the forces of
demand and supply in the market. The official rate was abolished.
Check your Progress: 1
1. Exchange control originated in India with the provisions of
2. The Act which is relating to foreign exchange control is
3. The official exchange rate was abolished from 1993 True False
4.3. NON-TARIFF BARRIERS
Tariff barriers are visible barriers to trade and non-tariff barriers are
hidden or invisible barriers to trade. Non-tariff barriers are prominent in recent
years and they play active role in movement of goods and services in the world
market. Countries have resorted to non-tariff barriers more frequently for
protection. Rugman and Hodgetts have stated that non-tariff barriers are
imposed by nations to interfere deliberately with trade. Sometimes they arise
out of domestic policy and economic management.
4.3.1. Objectives:
Rugman and Hodgetts have discussed the objectives of trade barriers.
They are given below:
Protect local jobs by shielding home country business from foreign
competition.
Encourage local production to replace imports.
Protect infant industries that are just getting started.
Reduce reliance on foreign suppliers.
Encourage local and foreign direct investments.
Reduce balance of payment problems.
Promote export activity
Prevent foreign firms from dumping viz., selling goods below cost in
order to achieve market share.
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Here, we discuss all non-tariff barriers in a nut-shell including those
discussed separately in detail, so that it could provide a total comprehensive
picture of the non-tariff barriers.
Alan. M. Rugman and Richard .M. Hodgett`s analysed Non-tariff
barriers as follows:
Customs
Specific
Government
Administration
Import Charges
Limitation
Participation
Rules
Quotas
Valuation
Procurement
Import Deposits
(including
Systems
Policies
Supplementary
Voluntary)
Anti-dumping
Export Subsidies Duties
Import Licences
Rules
and incentives
Import Credits
Supplementary
Tariff
Countervailing
Variable Levies
Incentives
Classification
Duties
Border Levies
Minimum Import
Documentation
Domestic
Limits
Needed Fees
Assistance
Embargoes
Disparities in
Programme
Sectoral, Bilateral
Quality and
Trade Diverting
Agreements
Testing
Orderly Marketing
Standards.
Agreements.
Packaging,
Labelling and
Marking
Standards
4.3.2. Import Policy Barriers
Quota system which we discussed in lesson 2 is one such barrier. One of
the most commonly known tariff barrier is the prohibition or restrictions on
imports maintained through the import licensing requirements. Article XI of
the GATT Agreement requires Members not to impose any prohibitions or
restrictions other than duties, taxes or other charges, whether made effective
through quotas, import or export licences or other measures. Any form of
import licensing (other than an automatic license) is, therefore, to be considered
as an import restriction.
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Certain restrictions on imports can be imposed in accordance with
various provisions of the GATT. These include restrictions on grounds of
safety, security, health, public morals etc. (Article XX of GATT).
These are however subject to the requirement that such measures are not
applied in a manner which would constitute a means of arbitrary or unjustifiable
discrimination between countries where the same conditions prevail, or a
disguised restriction on international trade. Similarly Article XXI of the GATT
Agreement provides for certain security exceptions.
Import restrictions on some items on grounds of safety and security are
being maintained generally by all the countries, and perhaps these cannot be
considered as non-tariff barriers looking to the purpose for which the restrictions
are imposed. The GATT allows import restriction to be maintained on grounds
of Balance of Payment (BOP) problems (XVIII B). Presently only seven
countries maintain import restrictions on account of BOP problem. India is one
of them. The others are: Bangladesh, Nigeria, Pakistan, the Philippines, Sri
Lanka and Tunisia.
Apart from the import licensing, import charges other than the customs
tariffs and quantitative restrictions, (Quota) are the other forms in which
import restrictions can be imposed through the import policy.
Textiles is the most important commodity on which Indian exports fact
quantitative restrictions in the form of MFA (Multi Fiber Arrangement) quotas
in the main markets. MFA quotas have been in force for about a quarter of
century (since 1972). In the USA, one of the main markets for Indian textiles
exports, more and more items have been incorporated in the MFA quotas. So
much so that since 1986, within six years the MFA quota coverage has expanded
six times from 16% to 95% by the year 1992.
Quotas may provide some satisfaction to the exporters by way of ensured
markets, but, these operate more dangerously to prevent growth of exports
115
beyond quotas and the importing countries conveniently use them as an effective
tool to protect their domestic industry.
Another related issue in the context of MFA quotas is the new US Rules
of Origin which have resulted in some textile ? visas being granted to non-
originating goods.
Some agricultural products also suffer from quota regimes. Thailand
maintains quota regime on imports of Soyabean which has adversely affected
India`s exports of oil meals which is a major export to Thailand. Similarly
Canada also maintains quantitative restrictions and import licensing
requirements for a variety of food and agricultural items.
Recovery of excessive service charges, disproportionate to the services
rendered by the port or customs authorities also fall in this category. Notably
Japan is one such case where Japanese Customs charge small packaging carriers
unreasonable fees for customs clearances of high volume and low value
shipments on the weekends and in the evenings.
4.3.3. Standards, Testing, Labelling & Certification Requirements.
Standards, Testing, Labelling and Certification requirements are insisted
upon for ensuring quality of goods seeking an access into the domestic markets
but many countries use them as protectionist measures. The impact of these
requirements is felt more by the purpose and the way in which these are used to
regulate the trade.
Two of the covered agreements under the WTO namely, the Agreement
on the Application of Sanitary & Phytosanitary Measures (SPM) and the
Agreement on Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT), specifically deal with the
trade related measures necessary to protect human, animal or plant life or health,
to protect environment and to ensure quality of goods.
116
The SPM Agreement gives a right to take sanitary and phytosanitary
measures necessary for the protection of human, animal or plant life or health
provided:
such measures are not inconsistent with the provisions of the
Agreement;
they are applied only to the extent necessary;
they are based on scientific principles and are not maintained
without sufficient scientific evidence;
they do not arbitrarily or unjustifiably discriminate between
Members where identical or similar conditions prevail including
between their own territory and that of other Members, and
they are not applied in manner which would constitute a restriction
on international trade.
It permits introduction or maintenance of sanitary and phytosanitary measures
resulting in higher level of sanitary and phytosanitary protection that would be
achieved by measures based on the relevant international standards, guidelines
or recommendations only if there is a scientific justification. If a notice needs to
be published at an early stage and a notification is required to be made of the
products to be covered with an indication of the objective and rationale of the
proposed regulation. The TBT Agreement also contains similar provisions with
regard to preparation, adoption and application of technical regulations for
human, animal or plant safety, protection of environment and to ensure quality
of goods.
Both the Agreements also envisage special and differential treatment to
the developing country Members taking into account their special needs.
However, the trade of developing country Members has often faced more
restrictive treatment in the developed countries who have often raised
barriers against developing countries on one pretext or the other.
The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and the Food and Drug
Authority (FDA) in USA are responsible for ensuring quality of goods that enter
the USA. Some of the instances of restrictions imposed by them include:
117
Recall of Indian made ghagras (Skirts) on grounds of non-conformity to
inflammability standards. This item was ultimately brought under MFA
quota regime.
Targetting of Indian rayon scarves on similar grounds of non-
conformity to inflammability standards.
Automatic import alert in respect of Indian fresh and frozen shrimps on
grounds of filth, decomposition and presence of Samonella. This was
extended even to cooked shrimps in early 1995 by the FDA.
Targetting of Indian mangoes on the ground of presence of fruit fly and
weevils.
In the case of the European Union (EU) reducing packaging waste and its
impact on environment is an important concern. The EU have issued a directive
in December 1994 requiring packaging materials to meet some technical
standards, designed and produced in such a way to promote their reuse,
recycling and energy recovery and at the same time minimizing their impact of
environment.
In Germany, however the existing laws are still stricter which puts the
onus of disposal of waste on the wholesale distributors. All these measures
definitely have a great economic impact on developing countries exports to the
EU Member countries.
Some of the other non-tariff barriers failing in this category are ban on
import of goods (textiles and leather) treated with azo-dyes and
pentachlorophenol, ban on use of all hormones, natural and synthetic in
livestock production for export of meat and meat products, stipulation regarding
pesticides and chemical residues in tea, rice and wheat etc., and requirement of
on-board cold treatment for fruits and vegetables exported to Japan.
4.3.4. Anti-Dumping & Countervailing Measures
Anti-dumping and countervailing measures are permitted to be taken by
the WTO Agreements in specified situations to protect the domestic industry
from serious injury arising from dumped or subsidized imports. The way these
measures are used may, however, have a great impact on the exports from the
targeted countries. If used as protectionist measures, they may act as some of the
most effective non-tariff barriers.
118
The number of anti-dumping investigations in the recent past has
increased manifolds. Not every investigation results in the finding of dumping
and / or injury to the domestic industry. But the period for which the
investigations are on, and this period may be up to 18 months, the exports from
the country investigated suffer severely. Anti-dumping and countervailing
duties being product specific and source specific the importers well prefer
switching over to other sources of supply.
Govt. of India issues notification on list of products and the names of
countries for which Anti-dumping duties are applicable.
In some cases, the investigations, are prolonged or closing one, they
short another investigation. The duty should be just adequate to remove the
injury but USA, Canada apply full duty rule without considering the rule of
injury.
4.3.5. Export Subsidies & Domestic Support
Generally the developing countries can hardly find resources to grant
subsidies or domestic support. But developed countries like the members of the
European Union and Japan have been heavily subsidizing their agricultural
sector through schemes like export refunds, production support system and other
intervention measures.
Under the Common Agricultural Policy, the EU subsidises European
farmers up to $4bn every year, which end up mostly into the pockets of rich land
lords who really do not need it. In 1992, Ray MacSharry, EU`s agriculture
commissioner, calculated that 80% of the subsidies went to the richest 20% of
farmers. For example, Queen Elizabeth receive annually $352,000, Saudi Prince
Khalid Abdullah al Saud Claimed $192,000. Just imagine the result of such
subsidies as the price of goods exported!
119
4.3.6. Procurement
Government procurement and bulk procurement policies followed by
some of the countries act as a non-tariff barrier. Japan follows peculiar
purchasing practices in the Government sector which are neither transparent nor
uniform. Similarly the UAE and Saudi Arabia maintain preferential but-national
policies giving a preference to local products in the governmental purchases or
insist on a certain percentage of sub-contracting in favour of locally owned
firms.
4.3.7. Services Barriers
Some of the measures which fall in this category include restrictive visa
regime maintained by the USA which act as a severe restriction to India`s
services exports, the local sponsorship requirement for visas for Saudi Arabia,
the special measures Law concerning the handling of legal business by foreign
retainers in Japan and restriction on issue of licences to the foreign professionals
in service areas like accounting, architecture, engineering and legal services,
etc., in Thailand.
4.3.8. Lack of Adequate Protection to Intellectual Property Rights
Lack of adequate protection to Intellectual Property Rights in some
countries hurts the exports of other countries. For example, piracy of motion
pictures, video cassettes, computer software etc., is widely practiced in some of
the Gulf Countries, which affects Indian exports of these items.
4.3.9. Other Barriers
Some of the other main non-tariff barriers are discriminatory on account
of use of Child Labour, investment barriers, language barriers, supply and
Special 301 measures under the Omnibus Trade Act by the USA etc., use of
120
child labour is increasingly growing as a serious concern in many countries.
Carpets and sports goods have often faced criticism mostly from the non-
governmental organisations for use of child labour. Various aspects of child
labour the problems faced by poor children should all be considered in applying
this barrier blind folded. Foreign exchange control is yet another form of
barrier.
4.3.10. Conclusion
While tariffs having been already brought down substantially in the
Uruguay Round, the future efforts are more likely to concentrate on the non-
tariff issues.
It is not true that the non-tariff measures are entirely unnecessary. The
WTO Agreements permit the Members to take measures to product human,
animal or plant life or health, to conserve natural resources or to ensure the
quality of goods finding an access in their markets. Members can also in certain
circumstances take specified action to protect their domestic industry. The non-
tariff measures act as barrier if they are applied as protectionist measures
in a disguise. The non-tariff measures need, therefore, to be examined for their
consistency with the WTO disciplines and whether they are applied as a
protectionist measures in a disguised form or manner. Any problem faced
could be taken to the WTO for better solution. Some of the non tariff barriers
can be tackled by the exporters themselves by ensuring that they adhere to
quality and standards requirements of the importing countries. For this purpose
they need to plan production and packaging methods specially for the export
markets, knowing fully the regulations in the importing countries.
Since any dispute in the WTO can be raised by the Governments only,
the exporters will do well to fully cooperate with their Government and to
provide it with all the necessary information through their association etc.
121
Check your progress: 2
4. GATT allows import restrictions to be maintained on grounds of BOP.
True
False
5. Anti-dumping duty and countervailing duty are different names for same.
True
False
6. Ghagras (Skirts) were recalled on grounds of non-
conformity__________ Standards.
4.4. SUMMARY
The development of exchange control system in India is traced from the
war time efforts. The objectives, methods of exchange control are briefly
narrated. The organization chart of the administrative system is described. The
exchange rate control modification is also discussed.
Different categories of non-tariff barriers are discussed elaborately.
4.5. KEY WORDS
Exchange Control
: Intervention of Govt. of India in foreign exchange
dealings.
Authorised Dealer (AD) : Bank authorized by RBI for dealing in foreign
exchange.
FEDAI
: Foreign Exchange Dealer Association of India.
LERMS
: Liberalised Exchange Rate Management System.
Countervail
: Counter balancing the effect of Subsidy by addition
duty.
4.6. ANSWERS
(1) Defence of India Act 1939
(2) FEMA
(3) True
(4) True
(5) False
(6) inflammability.
4.7. REFERENCE
1.
Apte, International Finance Management, Mc Graw Hill, New Delhi.
2.
Choudhury B.K., Finance of Foreign Trade and Foreign Exchange,
Himalayas, Delhi.
3.
Kuppuswamy. M.S., The ABC of Foreign Exchange, S.Chand and Co.,
New Delhi.
4.
RBI Exchange control Manual.
122
4.8. QUESTIONS
1. Exchange Control could also function as commercial policy Instrument` ?
Discuss
2. What are the objectives of exchange control?
3. Explain Methods of exchange control
4. Draw a flow chat to explain how exchange control is monitored in India.
5. Describe the objectives of trade barriers?
6. Classify different types of non-tariff barriers.
7. Write short notes on the following:
(a) Import Policy barriers
(b) Standards testing, labeling
(c) Anti-dumping and countervailing measures.
(d) Import Subsides and domestic support
(e) Procurement by Govt.
(f) Service barriers
(g) Exchange control as a barrier.
123
UNIT ? III
INDIAS FOREIGN TRADE AND POLICY
Objective of this lesson is to help students to understand.
i) Export ? Import Policy
ii) Deemed Exports
iii) Project and Consultancy Exports
iv) Direction and Composition of India`s foreign trade
v) Export Promotion and Institutional Setup
vi) Indian Joint Venture Abroad and
vii) Rupee Convertibility
3.1
EXIM POLICY 1997-2000
The objectives and salient features of EXIM policy 1997-2000
and recent EXIM policy (2004-2009) are given below.
Objectives
The principal objectives of this Policy are: (i) To accelerate the
country' s transition to a globally oriented vibrant economy with a view to derive
maximum benefits from expanding global market opportunities, (ii) To stimulate
sustained economic growth by providing access to essential raw materials,
124
intermediates, components, consumables and capital goods required for
augmenting production, (iii) To enhance the technological strength and
efficiency of Indian agriculture, industry and services, thereby improving their
competitive strength while generating new employment opportunities, and
encourage the attainment of internationally accepted standards of quality, (iv)
To provide consumers with good quality products at reasonable prices.
The objectives will be achieved through the coordinated efforts
of all the departments of the government in general and the Ministry of
Commerce and the Directorate General of Foreign Trade and its network of
regional offices in particular, with a shared vision and commitment and in the
best spirit of facilitation in the interest of export promotion.
Measures announced in the annual EXIM Policy
Removal of Quantitative restrictions. Import of 894 items made licence
free and another 414 items can be imported against Special Import
Licence .
Incorporation of a new chapter on policy to boost export of services.
Free Trade Zones (FTZ) to replace export processing zones and these are
to be treated as outside the country's customs territory.
Duty Exemption Scheme has been made more flexible. Annual Advance
Licence system introduced to take care of the entire Import needs of
125
exporters. Other facilities include issuance of licence, where norms are
not fixed, on the basis of self certification.
Zero Duty export promotion capital goods scheme (EPCG) with lower
threshold limit of Rs 1 crore extended to chemicals and textiles.
Institution of Ombudsman for faster resolution of exporters' problems.
Green card for exporters exporting 50 percent of their production. Green
card will entitle them to various facilities announced by the Government
from time to time.
No additional customs duty on import of capital goods under zero duty
EPCG scheme in marine and software sectors.
Duty free import of consumables up to certain limits for gems and
jewellery, handicrafts and leather sectors.
Value addition for rupee exports to Russia reduced from 100 percent to
33 percent.
Extension of the period for fulfillment of past export obligations in
respect of advance licence and EPCG schemes.
Entitlement of domestic tariff area sales for Export Oriented Units
(EOUs) and EPZs increased to 50% of f.o.b value of previous year.
Net foreign exchange earnings as a percentage of exports made uniform
at 20% for both EOUs and EPZs.
126
Golden status certificate for Export and Trading Houses, which means
that an exporter who has been a status holder for three terms, will acquire
this status permanently.
Pre-export Duty Entitlement Pass Book Scheme (DEPB) credit
entitlement increased from 5 to 10 per cent of previous year's
performance.
New thrust for jewellery and studded jewellery sector through various
relaxations like permission for import of jewellery for re-export after
repairs/ remaking, export of jeweliery through courier, personal carriage
of jewellery and incorporation of a new concept of diamond imprest
licence.
Import of second hand goods of all kinds have been restricted and import
of second hand capital goods under the EPCG scheme disallowed with
the objective to provide level playing field to the domestic capital goods
industry in light of the recent slowdown,
III. Other Measures
Fresh Duty drawback rates announced w.e.f. 1 June , 1999. The new
rates, which incorporate changes in customs duty and inclusion of
surcharge, imply a rate hike for 155 items, rationalisation of rates for 489
items and maintainence of existing rates on 193 items.
127
The facility for prepayment of external commercial borrowings up to 10
percent of the outstanding and a doubling of the eligibility to borrow for
exporters (and long term borrowers) from $100 million to $ 200 million
has been restored.
To encourage trade with SAARC countries, wide ranging concessions on
preferential basis In customs duties on imports from these countries have
been effected by the Ministry of Finance.
In order to reduce financing cost of imports and to provide credit at
reasonable terms, the monetary and credit policy announced by the RBI
in October, 1999, has withdrawn the interest rate surcharge of 30% on
import finance. Also, the maximum interest rate of 20 per cent on
overdue export bills has been withdrawn.
FOREIGN TRADE POLICY 2004 ? 09
The annual supplement to the foreign trade policy for 2004-09,
announced by Union Commerce and Industry Minister Kamal Nath on April 7,
2006 has addressed the longstanding demand of exporters to cut down
transaction costs of exports. Apart from providing a slew of new export
incentives, the policy has promised to beef up the electronic data inter-change
(EDI) system for online filing of advance license, license under Export
128
Promotion Capital Goods (EPCG) scheme and refund under duty entitlement
pass book (DEPB) scheme.
Paying heed to exporters' demand in expediting and simplifying
procedures for filing applications and obtaining licenses on various counts, the
ministry has now assured exporters that, henceforth, all applications submitted
on online EDI will be processed within one working day.
Exporters will not be required' to submit applications and
supporting documents manually. Instead, they can file all applications relating to
advance license, EPCG license and refund on DEPB to the DGFT website with a
digital signature and can pay licence fee through electronic fund transfer mode.
The government has targeted a 20% increase in merchandise
exports over 2005-06's achievements. The Minister of Commerce and Industry
Mr.Kamal Nath explained that with each passing year the export base was
increasing. So, in real terms, a 20% growth would be higher than the 25%
growth in 2005-06.
In the year ending March, 2006, the value of merchandise exports
touched the "auspicious figure" of $ 101 billion, registering a 2 5 % growth over
the previous year. "This year's export figures are unprecedented. Merchandise
exports have crossed the magic figure of $100 billion, "Minister of Commerce
and Industry Mr.Kamal Nath said, while announcing the annual supplement to
the foreign trade policy 2004-2009.
129
However, this increase was also accompanied by a 32% increase
in imports, which stands at $140 billion. Trade deficit for the year 2005-06 is
$39 billion, up from $25 billion in the previous year. The Minister of Commerce
and Industry said: "Our imports have grown 32%, and stand at $ 140 billion, but
$43 billion is our oil bill. Thus, our non-oil imports are $97 billion, a full $4
billion lower than our exports. On the non-oil front, therefore, we have a
positive balance of trade."
What is worrisome is that India's oil import bill increased from
close to $29 billion in 2004-05 to $43 billion in 2005 -06, largely on account of
high global oil prices. India imports nearly 73% of its crude oil requirement and
also sources petroleum products like LPG from abroad. This accounts nearly
30% of the country's import bill. Nonetheless, the minister said exports could
touch $165 billion by 2009/10. This is without taking into account trade in
services, which constitutes 52% of GDP, export-import in services exceeded $
100 billion in 2005-06.
Exports from many sectors surpassed expectations. "Project
goods exports grew at the rate of 173%. Exports of non-ferrous metals, guar
gum meal, computer software in physical form, rice, pulses, dairy products, all
recorded a growth surpassing 50%. Commodities like man-made staple fibres,
cosmetics and toiletries, iron-ore, coffee, processed food and transport
130
equipment grew at the rate above the average, that is more than 2 5 % during
this period".
"India is steadily increasing its share in important markets.
Growth in exports to UK has been 30%, to Singapore (with which we
implemented the CECA) 54%. India's exports to South Africa grew at 44%
while for China the growth rate is 35%," the minister said. The government
proposes to bring out a detailed ready reckoner in May, 2006 showing India's
increasing share in important markets.
NEW STEPS TO REPLACE TARGET PLUS
Scrapping of the Target Plus scheme has left exporters fretting,
but companies focusing on emerging markets, or rural products, are on a better
wicket than others. Companies with buyers in Africa, CIS countries and Latin
America stand to gain on all the products they export to these regions. The
annual supplement to the Foreign Trade Policy promises 2.5 % additional
import entitlement on their export turnover, irrespective of the product they
export.
The move is aimed at encouraging exporters to tap non-
traditional markets more aggressively. The list of countries that would be
eligible to be covered under the 'Focus Market' scheme is yet to be finalised,
131
government officials said. However, they feel Africa, CIS countries and Latin
America would definitely be included in the scheme.
The Focus Products scheme promises 2.5% additional import
entitlement for exporters shipping value-added fish, leather products,
stationary, handlooms and handicraft items. However, the entitlement in this
case would be only on 50% of their export turnover.
Together the two schemes are expected to result in duly
exemption valued at around Rs 2,500 crore. This is no compensation for the
Rs 8,000 crore worth of duty-free import, entitlement taken away by scrapping
Target Plus, exporters feel. 0 P Garg, president of the Federation of Indian
Export Organisations (FIEO), said the Target Plus Scheme was the only
benefit available lo large exporters. This category of exporters have not been
provided any new facility though they contribute 60% of India's exports, he
added. Interestingly, even small exporters do not seem to be too happy with
the policy. "What's there in the policy for exporters?" quipped S P Agarwal,
President of Delhi Exporters Association. Revenue notifications for the new
schemes should be issued without delay, he said.
Scrapping of Target Plus could be an indication that the
government is moving away from fiscal incentives for boosting exports.
Instead, the emphasis is on facilitation and reduction of transaction cost.
132
While the 'Focus Market' scheme is aimed at enhancing India's
export competitiveness in emerging markets, the 'Focus Products' scheme is
aimed at compensating exporters for infrastructure inadequacies. Though the
commerce department is bullish on the job creation potential of new measures,
especially the boost of select products, there are concerns that the schemes
may be labeled as not compatible with World Trade Organisation (WTO)
norms.
EOUs receive more words than matter
The policy has enabled fast-track clearance for disposal of left-
over material. Units having a turnover of Rs 15 crore, or more, will be allowed
the facility of submitting consolidated procurement certificate and pre-
authenticated procurement certificates. It has also been decided that interest
would be paid on delayed payment of refunds to ensure accountability and cut
delays.
The policy stated that that the new units, which are involved in
export of agriculture, horticulture and aquaculture products, will now be allowed
to take capital goods out of their premises. This
can be done by producing
bank guarantee equivalent to the duty forgone on the capital goods proposed lo
be taken out. EOUs can use this provision to take their equipment to farms, for
example.
133
The export promotion council for EOUs and SEZs said that the
idea of fixing time limits for finalising the decision on matters related to EOUs
would help this sector.
EXPORT OBLIGATION EXTENDED BY 2 YEARS
While the industry's demand for a duty-free import of machinery
has been rejected, the government has decided to give greater flexibility to
exporters under the Export Promotion Capital Goods (EPCG) scheme.
It has decided to extend the export obligation period by another
two years for those exporters that are unable to meet their obligation on time.
However, such an extension will be allowed only on the payment of 50% of the
duties payable in proportion to the unfulfilled export obligation.
The EPCG scheme allows imports of capital goods at 5 %
customs duty subject to the fulfilment of export obligations which could range
from six-to-eight times of the duty saved on capital goods imported under the
scheme.
This export obligation has to be met over a period of time,
depending on the category of the industry seeking exemption under the scheme.
For instance, in the case of agro units, the exemption is allowed subject to
fulfilment of the export obligation equivalent to six times the duty saved over a
period of 12 years from the date of issue of authorisation.
134
Thus, all units seeking exemption under the scheme are required
to maintain the level of their base export performance and undertake additional
export obligation for availing the facility of importing capital goods at reduced
custom duty.
However, in a number of situations exporters find it difficult to
maintain average export performance, owing to reasons such as sickness of the
unit and international market dynamics among others.
In all such cases, the exporter approaches the government for an
extension of the time period permitted for such exports.
Such cases are now being considered by the government on a
case-by-case basis.
Moreover, obligations to meet a base level of exports every year
have also been streamlined to give exporters the flexibility to cover up for lack
of exports in one year in subsequent years.
BOOSTER DOSE FOR SERVICES
A special thrust on increasing exports of services is evident in the
annual supplement to the foreign trade policy which was unveiled on 7TH April,
2006. Hotels now count payments received from foreign tourists in rupees for
obtaining export incentives. Commerce & Industry Minister Mr.Kamal Nath has
also expanded the Served from India' scheme to allow more flexibility to service
135
exports. The measures announced by the government are with a view to bring
service export norms in line with recent Reserve Bank guidelines.
Services account for 52% of GDP, and trade in services in 2005-
06 exceeded $100 billion. The supplement to the foreign trade policy makes
service exports in Indian rupees, which are otherwise considered as having been
paid for in free foreign exchange by RBI, will now qualify for benefits under the
'Served from India' Scheme. In addition, the foreign exchange earned through
International Credit Cards and other instruments as permitted by RBI for
rendering of service by the service providers shall be taken into account for the
purposes of computerisation of entitlement under the Scheme.
Benefits of the Scheme eamed by one service provider of a group
company can now be utilised by other service providers of the same group
company including managed hotels. The measure aims at supporting the group
service companies not earning foreign exchange in getting access to the
international quality products at competitive prices.
This new initiative allows transfer of both the scrip and the
imported input to the Group Service Company, whereas the earlier provision
allowed transfer of imported material only.
Stand-alone restaurants will now be eligible for benefits under
'Served from India' Scheme at the rate of 10% of FOB value of exports (instead
of the earlier 20%). (Source: The Economic Times, 8th April, 2006).
136
EXEMPTION FROM SERVICE TAX & FBT
This should come as a major relief to exporters who have been
paying service tax and fringe benefit tax on exports. The government has
decided that-exemption from these taxes is necessary to make sure that taxes are
not exported.
The finance minister had introduced services taxes on a host of
services including customs house agents and freight forwarders who are hired by
exporters regularly. Imposing such levies on exports was counterproductive to
the government's moves to boost export earnings. There was strong lobbying by
the exporters to do away with these taxes.
Although official figures were not available, studies done by
Chambers of Commerce indicated that the taxes paid on this account would be
in the range of around 1 % on the FOB value of exports. "It could differ from
sector to sector depending on the exports and value addition".
3.2
DIRECTION OF INDIAS EXPORTS
Kindle Bergar defines balance of payments as, a systematic
record of all economic transactions between the residents of the reporting
country and residents of foreign countries during a given period of time`. It is a
statement of systematic record of all economic transactions between one country
and the rest of the world. In contains two sets of accounts. They are capital
account and current account.
137
A modest attempt has been made to analyse balance of payments
position of Government of India and composition of exports and imports.
Balance of payments is analysed for the period 1990-91 to 2004-05 and
composition of exports and imports for the two years, 2002-03 and 2003-04.
Indicators of India`s external sector are also analysed in this paper. The data
required for the above analysis are gathered from the various issues of Economic
Survey, Government of India.
BALANCE OF PAYMENTS
Trends in exports, imports, trade balance, invisibles, current
account balance and capital account are analysed for the period 1990-91 to
2004-05. The following table shows balance of payments position during the
review period 1990-91 to 2004-05.
TABLE 1
BALANCE OF PAYMENTS
(US $ million)
S.No. Year
Exports Imports Trade
Invisibles Current Capital
Balance (net)
account account
balance balance
1
1990-91
18477
27915
-9438
-242
-9680
8402
2
1997-98
35680
51187
-15507 10007
-5500
9393
3
1998-99
34298
47544
-13246 9208
-4038
7867
4
1999-00
37542
55383
-17841 13143
-4698
10840
138
5
2000-01
45452
57912
-12460 9794
-2666
8508
6
2001-02
44703
56277
-11574 14974
3400
8357
7
2002-03
53774
64464
-10690 17035
6345
10640
8
2003-04
64723
80177
-15454 26015
10561
20860
9
2004-05
34451
51892
-17441 14182
-3259
10149
(April
to
September)
Table 1 reveals that India`s export in the year 1997-98 was US $
35680 million and it has increased to US $ 37542 million in 1999-00, US $
44703 million in 2001-02 and US $ 64723 million in 2003-04, showing the
percentage increase of 81 per cent during the period 1997-98 to 2003-04. In the
year 2004-05, for the period April to September, export remains at US $ 34451
million.
India`s major trading partners are USA, UK, Belgium, Germany,
Japan, Switzerland, Hongkong, UAE, China, Singapore and Malaysia.
The Economic Survey, Government of India, 2004-05, reveals
that exports registered an increase of 25.6 percent in US dollar terms in April ?
January 2004-05, substantially higher than the annual target of 16 percent as
well as the rise of 11.7 percent recorded in the corresponding period of the
previous year. In the foreign trade policy 2004-09, Government has fixed an
139
ambitious target of US $ 150 billion for exports by the year 2008-09, implying
an annual growth rate in US dollar terms of around 20 percent, thus doubling the
share of India in global exports to 1.5 per cent.
India`s import in the year 1997-98 was US $ 51187 million and it
has increased to US $ 55383 million in 1999-00, US $ 56277 million and US $
80177 in the year 2003-04, recording the percentage increase of 57 percent
during the period 1997-98 to 2003-04. In the year 2004-05, for the period April
to September, import remains at US $ 51892 million.
It is also attempted to compute Karl Pearson Coefficient of
Correlation between exports and imports during the period 1992-93 to 2004-05.
Correlation shows relationship between exports and imports. Correlation
between India`s exports and imports during the period 1992-93 to 2004-05 is
+0.962. It shows that there is a perfect positive correlation between India`s
exports and imports.
Export-import ratio is also computed to assess what is imported
for every one rupee of export? The following table shows export-import ratio for
the period 1997-98 to 2004-05.
TABLE 2
EXPORT-IMPORT RATIO
Year
1997-
1998-
1999-
2000-
2001-
2002-
2003-
2004-
98
99
00
01
02
03
04
05
140
Import 1.46
1.38
1.45
1.27
1.27
1.19
1.23
1.53
for one
rupee
of
export
(Rs.)
Table 2 shows for every one rupee of export, import was 1.46 in
1997-98, 1.38 in 1998-99 and 1.45 in 1999-04. After 1999-00, this ratio is on
declining trend. It shows that the magnitude of gap between export and import is
getting narrowed. The ratio was 1.27 in the year 2000-01 and 2001-02, 1.19 in
2002-03 and 1.23 in 2003-04.
Trade balance is on increasing trend during the review period
1997-98 to 2004-05. It was US $ 15507 million in 1997-98 and increased to US
$ 17841 million in 1999-00. It remains at US $ 15454 million in 2003-04. The
trade deficit is decreased by one percent during the period 1997-98 to 2003-04.
Invisibles play a vital role in determining balance of payments in
India. Invisibles (net) is on increasing trend after liberalization. Invisibles (net)
was US $ 10007 million in 1997-98 and it has increased to US $ 13143 in 1999-
00. US $ 14974 million in 2001-02 and US $ 26015 in 2003-04 recording the
percentage increase of 160 per cent during the review period 1997-98 to 2003-
141
04. Invisibles (net) during the period April to September, 2004-05 remains at US
$ 14182 million. Invisibles receipts for the year 2001-02, 2002-03 and 2003-04
are more than trade deficit. So current account balance remains at surplus during
the three years.
The current account balance was negative in the year 1997-98,
1998-99, 1999-00 and 2000-01, current account had a surplus in the year 2001-
02, 2002-03 and 2003-04. In the year 2004-05, April to September, current
account deficit remains at US $ 3259 million. The Economic Survey,
Government of India 2004-05 reveals that the current account surpluses during
the current decade are largely attributable to the buoyant inflows of invisible
receipts. As a proportion of GDP, the invisibles balance increased by 1.2
percentage points from 3.1 per cent in 2001-02 to 4.3 per cent in 2003-04. The
increase was particularly sharp in 2003-04, when net invisibles inflows
increased by more than 50 per cent from US$17 billion in 2002-03 to US$26
billion in 2003-04. Non-factor services and private transfers comprised more
than 90 per cent of total invisible receipts in 2003-04, with their individual
shares in total receipts at 47.1 per cent and 43.7 per cent, respectively.
The steady growth of non-factor services receipts, and the
concomitant strengthening of the invisibles balance, can be, inter alia, attributed
to the rapid rise in software services exports. From a relatively low share of only
10.2 per cent in 1995-96, exports of software services came to occupy 48.9 per
142
cent of India's total services exports in 2003-04, highlighting the country's
growing comparative advantage in production and export of such services. The
growth in information technology IT-enabled services (ITES) and business
process outsourcing (BPO) has been very satisfactory, with such exports
experiencing more than six-fold increase between 1999-00 (US$565 million)
and 2003-04 (US$3.6 billion). The year 2003-04 was also characterized by a
turnaround in travel receipts, which increased by more than US$800 million
compared to 2002-03. This turnaround not only bolstered overall invisible
inflows, but also underlined a sharp revival in tourism interest in India. Besides
software services and travel, transportation receipts increased by nearly US$700
million in 2003-04, primarily on account of higher earnings by the Indian
shipping industry. The year experienced net positive transportation earnings
(almost US$ 1 billion) after almost two decades.
Apart from software services, growing volume of private
transfers, driven essentially by workers remittances, have been one of the main
reasons behind the expanding surpluses in the current account. Private transfer
inflows increased by around US$6 billion in 2003-04, up nearly 35 per cent over
the previous year. Remittances from overseas Indians constituted 83 per cent of
these transfers. As a proportion of GDP, workers remittances have increased
from 0.7 per cent in 1990-91 (US$2.1 billion) to 3.2 per cent in 2003-04
(US$19.2 billion), making India one of the largest global recipients of such
143
inflows. Source-wise, remittances from Indians in advanced economies (mainly
the US and Europe) now form the bulk of such transfers, as compared to those
from the Gulf countries in the past.
By growing faster than merchandise trade, services trade is
increasingly becoming of paramount importance in the global trade matrix.
Services trade has special relevance to India, a country with a good potential in
many services.
While the first quarter of the current fiscal witnessed buoyant
invisibles inflows (net), the second quarter, in a sharp reversal of the trend,
experienced a fairly significant drop in the volume of invisibles (net). As a
result, the trade deficit of US$12.3 billion during the second quarter was left
uncovered by US$6.4 billion, which resulted in not only a current account
deficit of an equivalent amount for the quarter, but also a current account deficit
for the first half of the current year. Receipts of both non-factor services and
private transfers dropped during the second quarter, by US$1 billion and US$1.7
billion, respectively, compared to the first quarter of the current fiscal. Among
non-factor services, transportation earnings recorded net outflows (US$90
million) during the second quarter, as against net inflows (US$339 million)
during the first quarter, largely on account of higher transportation expenses
arising from growing domestic demand for imports. Software service exports,
however, continued to remain buoyant, registering an increase of 28.7 per cent
144
in April-September 2004 over April-September 2003. The invisibles balance for
the first half however was significantly, affected by the sharp decline in workers
remittances.
Capital account balance was US $ 9393 million in 1997-98 and it
has increased to US $ 10840 million in 1999-00 and US $ 20860 million in
2003-04. The India, external trade transactions are more than external
investment transactions. So current account is given greater importance than
capital account in balance of payments. If a country receives more and more
external loans, it may add capital account inflow, but it will create heavy
outflow in current account in the form of debt service. Capital account surplus
which is created by foreign / international loans may contribute to current
account deficit.
TABLE ? 3
INDICATORS OF EXTERNAL SECTOR
S.
Year Exports imports Trade
Invisible Current External Import
No.
Balance Balance Account Debt
cover
Balance
of
forex
reserve
in
months
145
1.
1990- 5.8
8.8
-3.0
0.01
-3.1
28.7
2.5
91
2
1997- 8.3
11.5
3.2
2.2
-1.0
23.6
8.2
98
3
1999- 8.4
12.4
-4.0
2.9
-1.0
22.1
8.2
00
4
2000- 9.9
12.7
-2.7
2.2
-0.5
22.6
8.8
01
5
2001- 9.4
11.8
-2.4
3.1
0.7
21.2
11.5
02
6
2002- 10.6
12.7
-2.1
3.3
1.2
20.3
14.2
03
7
2003- 10.8
13.3
-2.5
4.3
1.8
17.8
16.9
04
Table 3 shows that in the year 1998-99, India`s export was 8.3
percent of GDP and it has slowly increased to 9.9 per cent in 2000-01, and 10.8
percent in 2003-04. Similarly imports 11.5 per cent of GDP in 1998-99, 12.7
percent in 2000-01 and 13.3 per cent in 2003-04. India`s foreign exchange
reserve position is comfortable. Import cover of foreign exchange reserve was
146
8.2 months in 1998-99 and it has increased to 14.2 months in 2002-03 and 16.9
months in 2003-04.
External Trade
India's total external trade, including goods and services, grew by
44.2 per cent to |JS$268 billion in 2004-05. Growth was 41.5 per cent in the first
half of 2005-06, with value of such trade at US$163 billion. Trade in services
has been growing faster than merchandise trade-for example, in 2004-05, growth
in services trade was 78.6 per cent, compared to 33.6 per cent in merchandise
trade. The share of services in total trade increased from 23.5 per cent in 2003-
04 to 29.1 per cent in 2004-05 and further to 34.4 per cent in the first half of
2005-06.
Merchandise Trade
India's merchandise exports (in dollar terms and customs basis),
by continuing to grow at over 20 per cent per year in the last 3 years since 2002-
03, have surpassed targets. In 2004-05, export growth was a record of 26,2 per
cent, the highest since 1975-76 and the second highest since 1950-51. Supported
by a buoyant world economy (5.1 per cent) and import volume (10 per cent)
growth in 2004, there was an upswing in India's exports of primary commodities
and manufactures, and Indian exports crossed US$80 billion in 2004-05. The
good performance of exports (growth of 18.9 per cent) continued in April-
January 2005-06, despite the slightly subdued growth of global demand, and
147
floods and transport disruptions in the export nerve centres of Mumbai and
Chennai.
Table 4
Performance of the Foreign Trade Sector
(Annual percentage change)
Year
Export Growth
Import Growth
Terms of Trade
Value Volume Unit Value Volume Unit Net
Income
(in
value (in
value
US
US
Dollar
Dollar
terms)
terms)
1990-00
7.7
10.6
8.4
8.3
12.4
7.2
1.5
11.7
1990-95
8.1
10.9
12.6 4.6
12.9
7.6
5.0
16.5
1999-00
7.3
10.2
4.3
12.0
11.9
6.9
-2.0
7.0
2000-01
21.0
23.9
3.3
1.7
-1.0
8.2
-4.5
18.3
2001-02
-1.6
3.7
-1.0
1.7
5.0
1.1
-2.1
1.5
2002-03
20.3
27
0.3
19.4
9.5
10.7 -9.4
10.3
2003-04
21.1
6.0
8.5
27.3
20.9
-0.1
8.6
15.1
2004-05
26.2
13.2
8.9
39.7
8.8
25.7 -13.0 -2.0
2005-06* 18.9
26.7
148
While volume growth dominated export performance till 2002-
03, there is an increasing contribution of higher unit values in recent years
(Table 4). This change, evident in the last two years, coincided with a rising
share of high value gems and jewellery items, gradual shift to garments from
fibres and fabrics, and the sharp rise in prices of non-fuel primary items like ores
and minerals, iron and steel and non ferrous metals. The net terms of trade
which have been witnessing a continuous decline since 1999-00, showed a sharp
rise in 2003-04 mainly due to the rising export unit values. Growth of exports in
dollar terms was faster than the same in rupee terms with the continued
appreciation of the rupee between 2003-04 and early 2005. Export volume
growth, which was subdued in 2003-04, picked up in 2004-05. With a rise in
both export volume and unit value, export's purchasing power to import
measured by the income terms of trade, which has been improving consistently
during the 1990s (except 1996-97) improved further in 2003-04. However, in
2004-05, there was a sharp deterioration in both net and income terms of trade
mainly due to the sharp rise in import unit value of crude petroleum, gold and
other primary commodities.
India moved one notch up the rankings in both exports and
imports in 2004 to become the 30th leading merchandise exporter and 23rd
leading merchandise importer of the world. The momentum 'n export growth
continued, though at a decelerated pace, in 2005-06. After a fall in November
149
2005, export growth rebounded in December 2005. Overall exports in April-
January 2005-06 was US$ 74,9 billion, vis-a-vis the target of US$ 92 billion for
2005-06 as a whole.
Both external and domestic factors have contributed to the
satisfactory performance of exports since 2002-03. While improved global
growth and recovery in world trade aided the strengthening of Indian exports,
firming up of domestic economic activity, especially in the manufacturing
sector, also provided a supporting base for strong sector-specific exports.
Various policy initiatives for export promotion and market diversification seem
to have contributed as well. The opening up of the economy and corporate
restructuring have enhanced the competitiveness of Indian industry. India's
impressive export growth has exceeded world export growth in most of the years
since 1995; but, since 2003, it has lagged behind the export growth of
developing countries taken together, mainly because of China's explosive export
growth. India's share in world merchandise exports, after rising from 0.5 per
cent in 1990 to 0.8 per cent in 2003, has been stagnating at that level since then
with marginal variation at the second decimal place (Table 2). This is a cause for
concern. Foreign Trade Policy (FTP) 2004-09 envisages a doubling of India's
share in world exports from 0.75 per cent to 1.5 per cent by 2009. To achieve
this target, Indian exports may need to exceed US$150 billion by 2009 as world
exports are also growing fast.
150
Table 5
Export growth and share in world exports of selected countries
Country
Percentage growth rate
Share in world exports
Value
1995- 2003 2004 2005* 2001
2003 2004 2005* (US$
01
billion)
2004
1. China
12.4
34.5 35.4 32.1
4.3
5.9
6.6
7.2
593.0
2. Hong Kong
3.6
11.9 15.6 11.4
3.1
3.0
2.9
2.8
259.0
3. Malaysia
6.6
6.5
26.5 12.1
1.4
1.3
1.4
1.4
125.7
4. Indonesia
5.7
5.1
11.2 44.6
0.9
0.9
0.8
0.8
71.3
5. Singapore
4.1
15.2 24.5 14.8
2.0
1.9
2.0
2.0
179.6
6. Thailand
5.9
17.1 20.0 12.9
1.1
1.1
1.1
1.1
96.0
7. India
8.5
15.8 25.7 21.0
0.7
0.8
0.8
0.8
71.8
8. Korea
7.4
19.3 30.9 18.1
2.5
2.6
2.8
2.8
254.0
9. Developing 7.9
18.4 27.1 21.2
36.8
38.8
40.7
42.4
3685.1
countries
10. World
5.5
15.9 21.2 14.9
100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 9049.8
Source: IPS statistics, IMF. * January-August, 2005
The world economy in 2004 had recorded its strongest growth in
more than a decade, providing the foundations for a volume expansion of world
exports and imports by 9 per cent and 10 per cent, respectively, powered by the
151
growth in trade of manufactures at 10 per cent. The strong growth in world trade
in 2004 was more in nominal terms, with value of world merchandise growth
registering a rise of 21 per cent. This was mainly due to the price increase in
primary commodities following a sharp rise in demand particularly for fuels and
other mining products, and a rise in Europe's dollar prices and nominal trade
values from the depreciation of the US dollar by 9 per cent vis-a-vis a basket of
European currencies. After the estimated markedly lower expansion of 6.5 per
cent for 2005, according to the WTO, with a moderate recovery of the world
economy in 2006, volume of world merchandise trade is likely to accelerate to 7
per cent in 2006.
While high growth in global output and demand, especially in the
major trading partners of India, helped, it was the pick up in domestic economic
activity, especially the consistent near double-digit growth in manufacturing,
that constituted the main driver of the recent export surge. In 2004-05, India's
manufacturing exports grew by 21 per cent and had a share of around 74 percent
in total exports. Vis-a-vis the US dollar, the Indian rupee, which had started
strengthening from June 2002 onwards, appreciated by around 2.2 per cent on an
annual average basis in 2004-55. As per the revised Real Effective Exchange
Rate (REER) of the RBI, which is currency-trade-based-weights index providing
a better reflection of India's trade competitiveness, rupee appreciated by 2.5 per
cent in 2004-05, on an annual basis. While the appreciation of the rupee
152
remained around the benchmark over the long horizon and orderly and smooth,
the adjustment cost to industry appears to have been limited with productivity
gains. Furthermore, in more recent times, though the REER (six currency index)
for November 2005 reflects an appreciation of above 7 per cent, the rupee
started to depreciate in nominal terms from August 2005.
Further productivity gains in the export sector require a
deepening of domestic reforms, and an accelerated removal of infrastructure
bottlenecks, including export infrastructure. Infrastructure remains the single
most important constraint to export growth. -Achievement of the ambitious
export target set in Foreign Trade Policy (2004-09) requires a projected
augmentation of the installed capacity of ports by 140 per cent. Indian ports,
which handle over 70 per cent of India's foreign trade even in value terms, have
a turn-around time of 3-5 days as against only 4-6 hours at international ports
like Singapore and Hong Kong. As for internal transport, while there has been a
perceptible improvement in the national highways, secondary roads need to be
improved and the issue of delays caused at inter-state check points need to be
addressed. As trade grows and the number of consignments increases, there is a
need not only for improved trade infrastructure, but also for streamlining trade
data infrastructure to remove any data anomalies and provide the basis for
appropriate policy formulation. Exporters need to place more emphasis on non-
price factors like product quality, brand image, packaging, delivery and after-
153
sales service. A more aggressive push to FDI in export industries will not only
increase the rate of investment in the economy but also infuse new technologies
and management practices in these industries.
Growth in India's merchandise imports in 2004-05 at 40 per cent
in dollar terms was the highest since 1980-81. This surge in growth in 2004-05
was mainly due to the steep rise in price of crude petroleum and other
commodities with value of POL imports increasing by 45.1 per cent. While
volume growth in import of POL was subdued at 6.4 per cent, largely in
response to the price increase, larger imports filled the gap between growing
demand and stagnant domestic crude oil production. In 2004-05, lower tariffs, a
cheaper US dollar, a buoyant manufacturing sector and high export growth
boosted non-oil imports by 39 per cent, particularly capital goods, intermediates,
raw materials and imports needed for exports. Buoyant growth of imports of
capital goods at 21 per cent, on top of the 40 per cent growth in 2003-04,
reflected the higher domestic investment and firming up of manufacturing
growth. A significant contributor to the rise in non-POL imports was the 59.6
per cent growth of gold and silver on the back of a 59.9 per cent growth in 2003-
04, due to the high international gold prices. The duty reduction on important
gold from Rs.250 to Rs.100 per 10 gram and liberalization of such imports as
per trade facilitation measures announced in January 2004 could also have
154
provided a fillip. Non oil non bullion imports increased by 31 percent in 2004-
05, compared to a rise of 28.5 per cent in 2003-04.
In the current year, imports continue togrow, though at a
decelerated pace. The 26.67 per cent growth in imports in April January 2005-06
was contributed by that growth in POL imports of 46.91 per cent. This was
mainly due to the rise in prices, by quantity growth was only 1.6 per cent in
April - November 2005. While non-oil imports increased by 18.81 per cent in
April-January 2005-06, non-oil non-bullion imports increased by 30.8 per cent
in April-October 2005-06 (on top of a 29.9 per cent increase in the
corresponding period of the previous year indicating the economy's growing
absorped capacity for imports. Gold and silver import growth accelerated during
the same period. Owing to the firming up of international gold prices which
reached a high of US$510 per troy ounce in December 2005. Gold prices rose
further to US$570.9 per troy ounce on February 2, 2006.
Unlike in 2003-04, the surge in PCL imports in 2004-05 and
2005-06 (April-November) was dominated by the price import (Figure 6.2).
International crude oil (Brent variety, per barrel) prices, trending upwards since
2002, on average, rose from US$27.6 in 2002-03 to US$28.9 in 2003-04, US$
42.1 in 2004-05, and further to US$56.64 per barrel in April-November 2005
with a peak of US$67.33 on August 12, 2005. The stiffering of global crude oil
155
prices was contributed by a combination of heightened demand, limited spare
capacity and geopolitical threats to the existing capacity. Crude oil prices have
since moderated and was ruling at US$60.76 per barrel as on February 9, 2006.
The surge in crude oil prices has sharpened the focus on the adverse impact of
such volatility on domestic prices and the need to minimize such impact. Given
India's relatively high oil intensity and increasing dependence on imported crude
oil, efforts are being made to diversify sourcing of such imports away from the
geopolitically sensitive regions. Another development has been the decision to
build up strategic oil reserves, equivalent of about 15 days requirement, to
minimize the impact of crude price volatility in the short term. in a related
initiative, India is coordinating with large oil importing countries in Asia, in
exploring possibilities for evolving an Asian products marker, in place of an
Asian premium, which would reduce the premium paid by Asian countries and
thus, to some extent help in controlling the country's oil import bill.
With a widening trend in recent years, the trade deficit reached a
high of US$28.6 billion (as per customs data) in 2004-05, and this high was
surpassed by a record US$33.8 billion in April-January 2005-06 itself. While
this is a cause for concern, it may reflect a lag between export growth and
growth in import of capital, intermediate and basic goods. With a slowdown in
imports in November, December, 2005 and January 2006, growth in trade deficit
has decelerated from 71 per cent in April-September 2005 to 69 percent in
156
April-November 2005 and further to 54 per cent in April-December 2005 and 48
per cent in April-January 2005-06. One notable feature in the recent past is the
deficit in non-oil balance; in surplus in 2003-04, it turned negative with a deficit
of US$5.6 billion in 2004-05 and US$5.8 billion in April-October, 2005,
considerably higher than the deficit of US$1.1 billion in April-October, 2004.
This may again reflect the growing industrial and export demand, which will
materialize only with a lag.
Composition of merchandise trade
Export growth in 2004-05 continued to be broad-based with good
performance in most of the sectors. Manufactured exports, with a share of 73.7
per cent in total merchandise exports, continued to grow at 21 per cent. The
most notable feature was the 91 per cent growth in exports of petroleum
products, with a perceptible increase in its share in total exports. It reflected not
only the rise in POL prices, but also India's enhanced refining capacity
developed with a supportive tariff structure [Table 4]. Exports of primary
products grew by 29.4 per cent with rapid growth in exports of ores & minerals,
induced by strong international demand and higher prices. Within
manufacturing, high performers were: engineering goods (mainly manufactures
of metals, machinery and instruments, transport equipment and primary, semi-
finished iron & steel and non-ferrous metals); gems and jewellery; and
chemicals and related products (including basic chemicals, pharmaceuticals and
157
cosmetics, plastics and linoleum, rubber, glass and other products and residual
chemicals and allied products). Despite the new opportunities that opened up
with the phasing out of textiles quotas, textiles exports showed a disappointing
negative growth. In agriculture exports, besides traditional items like cereals,
cashew nuts, spices and rice and pulses, non-traditional items like poultry and
dairy products and fruits and vegetable seeds registered high growth.
Table 6
Commodity composition of Exports, April ? October 2004-05
Commodity
Percentage share
Growth Rate*
Group
April
?
April
?
October
October
2003- 2004- 2004 2005 2003- 2004- 2004 2005
04
05
04
05
I.
Primary 16.4
16.8
14.8
16.1
17.3
29.4
39.7 17.0
products
Agriculture & 12.4
10.5
11.2
9.9
11.9
7.4
27.0 8.8
allied
Ores
& 4.0
6.3
4.9
5.4
18.2
97.1
81.1 36.9
minerals
II.
76.9
73.7
74.1
72.4
20.0
20.8
20.2 20.5
Manufactured
158
goods
Textiles
16.6
12.1
13.2
11.8
21.5
-2.2
9.3
10.5
including ready
made garments
Gems
& 18.6
17.1
17.4
17.9
16.8
29.9
20.8 26.9
jewellery
Engineering
19.3
20.6
20.2
20.1
30.2
31.8
36.6 23.1
goods
Chemical
& 11.9
12.1
11.8
11.1
22.7
25.1
30.1 15.9
related products
Leather
& 2.3
1.9
2.1
1.7
15.7
6.1
16.9 6.3
manufactures
Handicrafts
0.8
0.5
0.5
0.5
-4.8
-26.4 -19.6 1.6
III. Petroleum 5.6
8.4
8.7
11.1
38.1
90.5
89.4 57.7
crude
&
products
TOTAL
100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 21.1
26.2
28.3 23.5
EXPORTS
(I+II+III)
Source : DGCI&S, Kolkata * In US$ terms;
159
Export performance in April-October 2005 continued to be
broad-based, with manufactures in the lead, and engineering goods, gems and
jewellery, and chemicals and related products registering good performance.
The growth of petroleum products, though impressive, was slightly subdued
possibly due to the fire at Mumbai High and transport disruptions due to floods,
Primary products growth moderated somewhat due to slowdown in demand
from China for ores and minerals, though its growth was still impressive. One
notable feature was the growth in project goods by more than 200 per cent.
In textiles, with the quota regime giving way to free market at the
global level at the beginning of 2005, there is a lot of expectation from the
Indian textile industry. So far, while China's performance exceeded
expectations, India's performance has not been satisfactory. Following the
supportive measures announced in Budget 2005-06 textiles exports showed a
revival with a growth of 10.5 per cent in April-October, 2005. Bull China's
growth of textiles exports was double at 21 per cent in the comparable period
April-November, 2005. While export growth was somewhat better in readymade
garments (16 per cent) and to the US (25 per cent in April-November, 2005), it
was far below the corresponding growth of Chinese export to the US of 51 per
cent. The low scale intensity of textiles manufacturing has deprived India the
opportunity to make the best of her comparative advantage in labour. Some of
the major problems plaguing the sector, like reservation for the small scale
160
sector, have been addressed. Nevertheless, substantial investment, both domestic
and foreign, is needed to achieve a quantum jump in textiles exports.
Growth of exports of gems and jewellery, a major contributor to
India's exports, accelerated in April-October 2005, with USA the largest market
accounting for 25 per cent of such exports from India. While exports of
engineering goods, comprising transport equipment, machinery and parts and
manufactures of metals, remained key drivers, there was a significant loss of
growth momentum compared to the previous year. Among engineering exports,
there was a sharp deceleration in primary and semi-finished iron and steel, with
strong domestic demand and a slowdown in demand from countries like
Germany and UAE, though demand from China continued to be strong. With
buoyant Japanese demand, there was a turnaround in marine product exports
with growth of 16 per cent compared to the decline a year ago. Among
agricultural items, export growth was impressive in items like rice and pulses
and in non-traditional items like poultry and dairy products, meat and
preparations, and fruits and vegetable seeds. Exports of coffee grew
satisfactorily, while that of raw cotton grew at over 187 per cent.
Table 7
Share of Major Exports of India in World Exports
(Items with one per cent share and above)
HS
Product
2000 2004
161
rev.1
03
Fish crustaceans molluscs aquatic invertebrates nes 3.4
2.4
05
Products of animal origin nes
1.2
1.4
07
Edible vegetables and certain roots and tubers
1.3
1.1
08
Edible fruit nuts peel of citrus fruit melons
2.1
1.4
09
Coffee tea mate and spices
5.8
4.7
10
Cereals
2.3
3.1
12
Oil seed oleagic fruits grain seed fruit etc nes
1.7
1.5
13
Lac gums resins vegetable saps and extracts nes
11.9 8.0
14
Vegetable plaiting materials vegetable products 4.4
6.1
nes
15
Animal.vegetable fats and oils cleavage products 1.2
1.2
etc
23
Residues wastes of food industry animal fodder
2.4
3.1
25
Salt sulphur earth stone plaster lime and cement
2.7
3.3
26
Ores slag and ash
1.9
10.7
28
Inorganic chemicals precious metal compound 0.6
1.0
isotopes
29
Organic chemicals
1.2
1.7
32
Tanning dyeing extracts tannins derivatives 1.5
1.6
pigments etc
162
41
Raw hides and skins (other than furskins) and 1.8
2.4
leather
42
Articles of leather animal gut harness travel 4.1
3.5
goods
46
Manufactures of plaiting material basketwork etc. 0.1
2.0
50
Silk
11.3 11.1
52
Cotton
0.6
4.9
53
Vegetable textile fibres nes paper yarn woven 4.5
3.5
fabric
55
Manmade staple fibres
2.0
2.4
57
Carpets and other textile floor coverings
7.5
10.7
58
Special woven or tufted fabric lace tapestry etc
2.4
1.4
61
Articles of apparel accessories knit or crochet
2.1
2.3
62
Articles of apparel accessories not knit or crochet
3.6
2.9
63
Other made textile articles sets worn clothing etc
6.3
7.0
64
Footwear gaiters and the like parts thereof
1.4
1.7
67
Bird skin feathers artificial flowers human hairm
1.7
3.0
68
Stone plaster cement asbestos mica etc articles
1.9
2.7
71
Pearls precious stones metals coins etc
6.5
7.4
72
Iron and steel
0.9
1.3
73
Articles of iron or steel
1.2
1.0
163
83
Miscellaneous articles of base metal
0.5
1.0
Source : NCTI based on UN-ITC Trade Map data.
Efforts at export diversification continued. However, India has a
share of one per cent and above in world exports in only 35 out of a total of 99
commodity categories at the two digit (Harmonised System (HS) Revision 1)
level, with a reasonable share in only a few items (Table 7). Recently, world
exports of items like scientific instruments have increased tremendously to equal
the value of textiles exports, but in these new areas, India's export contribution
continues to be low. Among the top 150 items of world exports at the four digit
level, in 2004, India had significant shares only in four items, and a share of
more than one per cent in only 28 items. The items with large potential, in which
India has not yet made a mark while China has already established itself, include
many electronic and electrical items, processed food items, scientific
instruments and apparatus, toilet papers and handkerchiefs, electro-medical
appliances, furniture and toys.
Manufacturing constitutes around 74 per cent of India's
merchandise exports;-and there is enormous scope for accelerating such exports.
Export of manufactures played a crucial role in the export performance of most
of the emerging market economies. Between 1965 and 1985, exports of
manufactures from the Republic of Korea grew at an average annual rate of
164
around 35 per cent, which was more than double the pace of growth in world
exports of manufactures. Bringing manufacturing to the central stage can help in
increasing merchandise exports at rates substantially above the world average, to
reach a higher share in world exports. The setting up of the National
Manufacturing Competitiveness Council (NMCC) to prepare a strategy for the
revival of the manufacturing sector should help in accelerating the export of
manufactured items.
With high value added 'the quality of India's exports was
somewhat different from that of China, which continued to include a large
portion of imported inputs, the so called exports from China to China as per the
UNCTAD Trade & Development Report, 2005. India's share in world
agricultural exports continued to be low at 1.1 per cent in 2004. India, which has
been spearheading the WTO negotiations on agriculture on behalf of the
developing countries, needs to quickly take steps to increase supply of
agricultural items for world market to make use of the possible opportunities, as
a result of WTO negotiations. A three-pronged approach covering more and
concerted initiatives to review and implement the relevant standards
domestically; recourse to bilateral and multilateral avenues to remove barriers to
agricultural exports; and expanding the supply base of exportable agricultural
items can help. The Integrated Food Law which is in the offing may be a good
step forward.
165
The consistent rise in imports, in both 2004-05 and April-
October, 2005, is attributable to not only the over 40 per cent growth of POL
imports with a share of around 30 per cent in India's import basket, but also to
other items like gold and silver, capital goods and export related items. While
the increase in the price of the Indian basket, for example, by over 44 per cent in
April-November 2005, contributed to the growth in POL imports, and the rising
international bullion prices contributed to the growth in gold and silver imports,
the rise in imports of capital goods and export related imports was due to the
rising industrial demand and exports, which was also reflected in the high
growth of capital goods production.
Table 8
Imports of principal commodities
Commodity Group
Percentage share
Growth Rate*
April ?
April ?
October
October
2003-
2004-
2004 2005 2003-
2004-
2004 2005
04
05
04
05
POL
26.3
27.3
30.2 31.8 16.6
45.1
56.8
41.4
Pearl precious & 9.1
8.6
7.9
8.1
17.6
32.1
12.6
36.4
semi-precious stones
166
Capital goods
12.7
11.5
9.6
10.3 40.3
20.9
23.3
44.2
Electronic goods
9.6
8.9
9.3
8.2
34.0
30.0
33.3
17.9
Gold& silver
8.8
10.0
9.4
9.0
59.9
59.6
31.5
34.1
Chemicals
7.4
6.0
6.2
5.6
39.9
31.7
31.9
19.7
Edible oils
3.2
2.1
2.6
1.6
40.1
-8.1
-11.9 -15.3
Coke
coal
and 1.8
2.6
2.8
2.0
13.7
97.5
99.5
-3.2
briquettes
Metaliferrous ores & 1.7
2.2
2.2
2.6
24.9
84.8
72.1
57.0
metal scrap
Professional
1.6
1.4
1.4
1.3
8.6
21.0
15.2
26.8
instruments
and
optical goods
Total imports
100.0
100.0
100.0 100.0 27.3
39.7
36.9
34.3
*ln US Dollar terms
Non-electrical machinery, transport equipment, manufactures of
metals and machine tools were the main contributors of the rise in capital goods
imports. After five successive years of decline, project goods imports, which
reflect the technological maturity and industrial capabilities of a country, made a
rebound in 2004-05, with the growth accelerating in the current year. This
augurs well for the industrial sector and infrastructure sectors of the economy.
Among bulk goods, imports of fertilizer, metallic ferrous ores and scraps, and
167
iron and steel registered steep rise during April-October 2005. Fertiliser import
growth, which witnessed a turnaround in 2003-04 after three years of decline,
accelerated further in 2004-05 and April-October, 2005. While the turnaround in
2003-04 in fertilizer imports was due to price increases, the increase in 2004-05
and April-October, 2005 was caused by higher volumes induced by falling
prices, and reflected robust demand by the agriculture sector. Import of food and
allied products declined with a fall in imports of edible oils, in both value and
volume terms, in 2004-05 and April-October, 2005, with higher domestic
output. The very high growth in iron and steel imports -- due to both volume
and price increase in 2004-05, and mainly due to volume increase in the current
year with .a fall in international steel prices in the last few months -- reflected
rising demand in a buoyant economy.
168
Direction of Trade
Table 9
India's major trading partners, 2000-2005
(Percentage share in total trade (exports+imports)
Country
2000-
2002-
2003-
2003-
2004
2005
01
03
04
04
April ?
October
USA
13.0
13.4
11.6
10.3
11.1
10.0
UK
5.7
4.6
4.4
3.7
3.6
3.7
Belgium
4.6
4.7
4.1
3.7
3.7
3.4
Germany
3.9
4.0
3.8
3.5
3.5
3.6
Japan
3.8
3.2
3.1
2.7
2.6
2.4
Switzerland
3.8
2.4
2.6
3.3
3.2
3.3
Hong Kong
3.7
3.1
3.3
2.8
2.8
3.0
UAE
3.4
3.8
5.1
6.2
5.6
5.4
China
2.5
4.2
4.9
6.4
5.6
6.4
Singapore
2.5
2.5
3.0
3.4
3.3
3.7
Malaysia
1.9
1.9
2.1
1.7
1.9
1.4
Total (1 to 11)
48.8
47.9
48.1
48.0
46.8
46.4
Source: DGCI&S, Kolkata
169
"The share of the 11 major trading partners of India, accounting
for a share of around 48 per cent in India's trade, has not changed much since
2000-01 (Table 9). While USA continues to be the single largest trading partner
of India, its share has fallen in 20Q4-05 and April-October, 2005. China
emerged as the second major trading partner in 2005-06 and the share of
combined China- Hong Kong at 9.4 per cent was close to that of l.8%. The
impressive growth in trade with China was contributed by ores, slag, ash, iron
and steel and organic chemicals on the export sideband by electrical machinery,
other machinery and organic chemicals on the of imports and exports, another
important country, whose share has been increasing steadily, is Singapore, with
which India has recently signed a Comprehensive Economic Cooperation
Agreement (CECA). In the case of India-Singapore trade, precious stones,
metals, mineral fuel, oil, ships and boats and other machinery were the major
contributors in exports, and other machinery, electrical machinery, organic
chemicals, books, newspapers and manuscript, and aircraft & spacecraft in
imports.
Region-wise, in 2004-05, India's exports to Asia and Oceania,
(with a share of 47.4 per cent) registered a robust growth of 27 per cent. This
was powered by the high growth of exports to China, Singapore, UAE and the
Republic of Korea. The other two respectively) registered growth of around 20
percent. Exports to Africa and Latin American countries were also impressive
170
(Appendix Table 7.4 B). In April-October, 2005, while performance was similar
to that in 2004-05, growth of exports to EU 25 accelerated, and exports to
China-Hong Kong, Singapore and Korea continued to be impressive. Significant
growth was also seen in trade with Sri Lanka and Thailand, with which India has
a Free Trade Agreement (FTA). The growing importance of Asia in India's
exports indicates that the regional trading arrangements (RTAs) strategy is
bearing fruit (Box 6.6). Framework Agreements on economic cooperation have
also been entered into with MERCOSUR and Chile. India is also engaged with
Gulf Cooperation Council and Mauritius for FTA / Comprehensive Economic
Cooperation Partnership Agreement. India-Israel and India, Brazil, South Africa
(IBSA) joint Study Groups have also been set up.
In 2004-05, India's imports from Asia and Oceania, accounting
for 35.4 per cent of total imports, was buoyant with growth of 40 per cent.
Import growth from EU 25 (with a share of 16.9 per cent) at 20 per cent and that
from America (with a share of 8.4 per cent and 29 per cent were also impressive.
In America, US was the major source of import, and Belgium, Germany and the
UK were the major import sources in EU 25. In Asia, import growth from major
sources like China and Singapore and, within SAARC, growth in imports from
Sri Lanka and Pakistan, were impressive. In April- October, 2005, there was an
acceleration of growth in imports from EU 25, and growth in imports from Asia
and Oceania, and from America continued to be impressive, despite a
171
moderation. While the country-wise performance was almost similar to that in
2004-05, within SAARC, besides Sri Lanka and Pakistan, imports from
Bangladesh witnessed an impressive rebound in growth in the first seven months
of 2005-06, after a decline in 2004-05.
Services Exports
Services exports grew by 71 per cent in 2004-05 to US$46
billion, and 75 per cent to US$32.8 billion in April-September, 2005. In 2004-
05, software service exports grew by 34.4 per cent to US$17.2 billion and by 32
per cent to US$10.3 billion inthefirsthalfof2005-06. India's share in the world
market for IT software and services (including BPO) increased from around 1.7
per cent in 2003-04 to 2.3 per cent in 2004-05 and an estimated 2.8 per cent in
2005-06.
A new development in services exports is the explosive growth of
business services, including professional services. This is reflected in the growth
of miscellaneous services excluding software, which grew by 216 per cent to
US$16.3 billion in 2004-05, and 181 per cent in the first half of the current year
to reach a level of US$15.4 billion and surpass even the value of software
services exports. The enormous opportunities for further growth of these
services make WTO negotiations in services all the more important for India.
172
While India is negotiating for greater market access in developed
country markets, domestic regulations create barriers for Indian service
providers even when trading partners have taken firm commitments. Quick
domestic policy reforms are needed, especially in qualification and licensing
requirements and procedures, to impart effective market access for our service
providers. Some of the ways of promoting services could include facilitation to
become known suppliers of quality services, providing relevant export market
information, providing appropriate export financing with reduced transaction
costs by reviewing the common practice of collateral backing, good marketing
of services by energizing Indian embassies and industry associations, anchoring
brand ambassadors for promoting services, and leveraging the country's
potential services purchasing power in multilateral and bilateral negotiations and
in the CECA's. [Source: Economic Survey, Government of India, 2004-05].
173
3.3
DEEMED EXPORTS
Definition
"Deemed Exports" refers to those transactions in which the goods
supplied do not leave the country and the payment for such goods are made in
India, by the recipient of goods?
Categories of supply
The following categories of supply of goods by the main /sub-
contractors shall be regards as "Deemed Exports" under this Policy, provided the
goods are manufactured in India:.
(a) Supply of goods against duty free licences issued under the Duty Exemption
Scheme;
(b) Supply of goods to Export Oriented Units (EOUs) or units located in Export
Processing Zones (EPZs) or Software Technology Parks (STPs) or to Electronic
Hardware Technology Parks (EHTPs); |
(c) Supply of capital goods to holders of licences under the Export Promotion
Capital Goods (EPCG) scheme subject to the condition that such supplies will
be eligible for benefits stated in paragraph 6.9 of the Policy;
|
(d) Supply of goods to projects financed by multilateral or bilateral
agencies/Funds as notified by the Department of Economic Affairs. Ministry of
174
Finance under International competitive bidding or under limited tender system
in accordance with the procedures of those agencies/Funds, where the legal
agreements provide for tender evaluation without including the customs duty;
(e) Supply of capital goods and spares to the extent of 10% ?of the FOR value
for fertilizer plants if the supply is made under the procedure of international
competitive bidding;
(f) Supply of goods to any project or purpose in respect of which the Ministry of
Finance, by a notification, permits the import of such goods at zero customs
duty coupled with the extension of benefits under this Chapter to domestic
supplies; and
(g) Supply of goods to the Power, Oil and Gas sectors in respect of which a
notification duly approved by Ministry of Finance, extends the benefit under this
Chapter to domestic supplies.
Benefits for deemed exports
Deemed exports shall be eligible for following benefits in respect
of manufacture and supply of goods qualifying as deemed exports:
(a) Special Imprest Licence/Advance Intermediate Licence;
(b) Deemed Exports Drawback Scheme;
(c) Refund of terminal excise duty; and
175
(d) Special Import Licence at the rate of 6 per cent of the FOR value (excluding
all taxes and levies).
3.4
PROJECT EXPORTS FROM INDIA : PERFORMANCE AND
POTENTIAL
From a modest beginning in the late 1970s, project exports have
evolved over the years to reflect the country's technological maturity and
industrial capabilities; give visibility to Indian technical expertise and project
execution capability; and create entry points for other Indian firms for supplies,
consultancy and manpower exports. Exports of projects and services including
construction and industrial turnkey projects and consultancy services increased
from US$629 million in 1998-99 to US$911 million in 2004-05, and crossed
US$956 million in April-October, 2005 itself.
Destination of project exports has undergone a change between
1999-00 and 2004-05, with the share of West Asia (mainly Oman, UAE and
Iraq) increasing from 28.4 per cent to 63.9 per cent, North Africa (mainly
Sudan) increasing from 9.1 per cent to 28.5 per cent, South Asia falling from
41.5 per cent to 5.7 per cent, and South East Asia falling from 15.8 per cent to
0.9 per cent. In 2004-05, turnkey contracts had the major share (57.2 per cent),
followed by construction contracts (36.4 per cent), and consultancy contracts
(6.4 per cent).
176
There is a growing realisation across Asia and Africa that the
experience of Indian companies is more appropriate to their project needs,
especially in hydro-power, irrigation, transportation and water supply systems.
Indian exporters need to make inroads into the lucrative markets in West Asia,
including Iraq and Libya, which are showing signs of revival. There is need to
obtain a major share of all funded projects in SAARC region through intensive
marketing; to forge strategic alliances with leading European companies to
target multilaterally funded projects in CIS countries, and with companies in
Latin America to participate in projects funded by Inter-American Development
Bank (IADB); to use the Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreements
(CECAs) to promote such exports; and to secure sub-contracts from major
European/American/Japanese companies.
The challenges for Indian project exports include: relatively
lower ability to compete with many other countries, including developed ones
and China, in the absence of competitive credit; lack of experience in handling
barter deals and counter-trade practices; and low levels of effective and strategic
tie-ups with reputed international consultancy firms and quality accreditation.
Some important initiatives have been taken to promote project exports.
Government of India (Gol) Lines of Credit, since 2003 routed through Exim
Bank, and with Gol guarantee for repayment of principal and payment of
interest, facilitate offer of competitive credit. Bid Intervention Service by Exim
177
Bank, on behalf of Indian companies, seeks redressal in case of discriminiation
against Indian companies in multilateral tenders. Exim Bank has so far
intervened in 32 bid intervention cases, of which 19 were successful with
contracts ultimately going in favour of Indian companies. [Source: Economic
Survey, Government of India, 2004-05]
3.5
EXPORT PROMOTION AND INSTITUTIONAL SET UP
The Government of India has created a number of service
organisations for export promotion and assistance and to meet the challenges in
the changing environment in industry and trade. The export houses should
ascertain market potential for their products in the overseas market. They have
to organise trade fairs and exhibitions for wider publicity of their products. They
have to collect and process and interpret the data on exports (countrywise and
commoditywise) to judge the trend in the export market. Conducting marketing
research and training the executives engaged in export-import business are
difficult tasks to the individual exporters.
In order to assist the individual exporters for conducting market
surveys, organizing trade fairs and exhibitions, collecting data on recent trends
in the global market, training the executives who are involved in foreign trade,
arranging buyers-sellers meet etc, the Government of India has established the
following service organisations.
178
SERVICE ORGANISATIONS
Name of the service organizations and the services rendered by
them are given below:
S.No. Name of the Service Organisation
Services Rendered
1
Commodity boards [7 community Take care of the entire range of
boards] (Silk, coffee, coir, rubber, problems
of
production,
spices, tea, tobacco)
marketing,
promotion,
competition etc. in respect of the
commodities concerned
2
Export Promotion Councils [20 Providing a forum between
export
promotion
councils] government and exporters to
(apparel, chemicals, carpet, cashew, discuss export related issues;
pharmaceuticals, cotton, leather, sponsoring trade delegations;
electronics,
engineering, arranging buyers-sellers meet;
handicrafts,
handlooms,
silk, publicity of Indian products in the
construction plastics, powerloom, overseas market; allocation of
shellac, sports, goods, rayon export quota etc.
textiles, woolen)
3.
Trade Development Authority
Arranging import licenses and
customs clearance; conducting
179
market surveys for exploring
export
potentials;
product
promotion
and
publicity;
consultancy services; supply of
information on trends in the
foreign trade etc.
4.
Directorate general of commercial Compilation and dissemination of
intelligence and statistics
statistical information on India`s
foreign trade; publication of
periodicals in foreign trade of
India.
5.
Government Trade
Supply of information in foreign
Representatives Abroad
market; assisting Indian trade
Visiting foreign countries
delegations and organisign trade
Products in foreign market
fairs
in
foreign
countries;
conducting market survey for
Indian
6.
Federation of Indian Export Providing common services for
Organisations
the benefit of exporters; collecting
and forwarding important market
information;
sponsoring
and
180
conducting
market
surveys;
sponsoring trade delegations;
coordinating the export promotion
activities etc.
7.
Indian Institute of Foreign Trade
Offering training progrmame in
international business; conducting
market surveys; offering diploma
courses and master`s programme
on
international
business;
publication of periodicals and
occasional papers on foreign trade
and
various
aspects
of
liberalization.
A detailed description of the services rendered by the above
services organisations are given in the following pages;
EXPORT PROMOTION COUNCILS
The Export Promotion Councils are established under the
Companies Act 1956 to provide direct institutional support to the Indian
exporters. The Government of India has created a separate export promotion
181
council for every industry. Export Promotion Councils are the representative
bodies of the various exporting industries. They serve as a bridge between the
Government and exporters for export promotion and development. The
exporters should register themselves with the respective export promotion
councils and become the member of the councils. A nominal fee is charged by
the export promotion | council to issue membership certificate. This certificate is
called Registration-cum-Membership Certificate (RCMC). This certificate is
issued in terms of the EXIM policy. Export Promotion council helps the
member-exporters on technical matters, export marketing strategies and export
promotion. Experts are appointed in various working committees of the export
promotion councils in order to help the exporters to solve various issues relating
to international trade. The offices of the Indian Export Promotion Councils are
established in foreign countries for the benefit of the Indian exporters. The
export promotion council perform both advisory and executive functions.
The name and address of the Export Promotion Councils and
the products covered are listed below:
.
Apparel
Export
Promotion Ready made garments
Council
(excluding woollen, leather, silk,
15, NBCC Tower,
jute products)
Bhikaji Cama Place,
New Delhi ? 110 066.
182
2.
Basic Chemicals,
Drugs,
pharmaceuticals,
fine
Pharmaceuticals and
chemicals, dyes, intermediates,
Cosmetics Export Promotion
alcohol, organic chemicals, agro
Council 7, Cooperage Road
chemicals,
glycerine,
soaps,
Jhansi Castle (4th Floor)
detergents, cosmetics, toiletries,
Mumbai ? 400 001
agrobatis, essential oils dehydrated
culture media and crude drugs
3.
Carpet Export Promotion
Handmade / Woollen / synthetic
Council
carpets, rugs, drug gets and
Flat No. 110-A/1, Krishna
namdhas including handmade silk
Nagar
carpets
Street No.5, Safdarjung
Enclave
New Delhi ? 110 029
4.
Cashew Export Promotion
Cashew products
Road
Chitoor Ernakulam South
Cochin ? 600 016
183
5.
Chemicals and Allied
Chemicals and allied products
Products
(glass and glasswares, ceramics,
Export Promotion Council
paints, rubber products , paper and
World Trade Centre
paper products, cement and cement
14/1B, Ezra Street (II Floor)
products, safety matches, fire
Calcutta ? 700 001.
works, wood products, mica and
6.
Cotton Textile Export
mica based products, granites,
Promotion Council
phototype set films and micro films
Engineering Centre, 5
Mathew Road
Mumbai ? 400 004.
7.
Council for Leather Exports
Cotton textiles
Leather Centre
53, Sydemhams Road,
Periamet
Chennai ? 600 003
8.
Electronics and Computer
Finished leather and leather goods,
Software Export Promotion
chrome tanned blue hides and
Council
skins, crane tanned crust leather,
PMD House, Hauz Khas
E.I tanned hides and skins and EI
New Delhi ? 110 016.
crust leather
184
9.
Engineering Export Promotion
Electronic
Goods,
computer
Council
software and related services
World Trade Centre
14/1B, Ezra Street,
Calcutta ? 700 001.
10.
Export Promotion Council for
Engineering goods, stainless steel
Handicrafts
products
6 Community Centre
Basant Lok, Vasant Vihar,
New Delhi ? 110 057.
11.
Gems and Jewellery Export
Handicrafts
Promotion Council
Diamond Plaza (V Floor)
391A, Dr. Dadasaheb
Ambedkar Marg, Bombay ?
400 004.
12.
Handloom Exports Promotion
Gems and Jewellery
Council,
18, Cathedral Garden Road,
Numgambakkam
Chennai ? 600 034.
185
13.
The Indian Silk Export
Handloom products
Promotion Council
62, Mittal Chambers,
Nariman Point
Bombay ? 400 021.
14.
Overseas Construction
All natural silk fabrics, made-ups,
Council of India
garments and machine made
Commerce Centre, 7th Floor,
carpets
J. Dedaji Road, Tardeo,
Bombay ? 400 037
15.
Plastic and Linoleum
Overseas construction and civil
Export Promotion Council
engineering products
Centre 1, 11th Floor, Unit No.1
World Trade Centre
Cuffe Parade
Bombay ? 400 005.
16.
Powerloom Development
Plastics, toys, polyester film and
Export Promotion Council
Unit No.1, allied products, human
Cecil Court B Wing, 4th Floor,
hair and human hair products
Mahakavi Bhusan Marg
Colaba
186
Mumbai ? 400 039.
17.
Shellac Export Promotion
Powerloom cotton textiles
Council,
World Trade Centre
4th Floor, 14/1B Ezra Street,
Calcutta ? 700 001.
18.
Sports Goods Export
Lac in all forms
Promotion Council
1E/6, Swami Ram Tirath
Nagar,
New Delhi ? 110 055.
19.
The Synthetic and Rayon
Sports
goods,
non-cellulosic
Textiles
products, cellulosic products, nylon
Export Promotion Council
polyester fibre or yarn acrylic
Resham Bhavan
knitwear
78, Veer Nariman Road,
Mumbai ? 400 020.
20.
Wool and Woollen Export
Woollen textiles, hosiery, knitwear
Promotion Council
and other woollen products
612/714, Ashoka Estate,
24, Barakhamba Road
187
New Delhi ? 110 001.
Functions of the Export Promotion Councils
The important functions of the Export Promotion Councils are
given below:
Providing a forum between the Government and the members of the
export promotion councils for consideration and early implementation of
the export promotion schemes Sponsoring and inviting trade delegations
and study teams for exploring export markets for the Indian industries
Making arrangements for the distribution of scarce materials for export
production
Allocation of export quota for the export products like textiles
Arranging Buyer-Seller Meets and trade fairs/exhibitions in India and
abroad
Foreign publicity for Indian products in overseas markets through the
scheme like Joint Foreign Publicity
Recommending the Government regarding the formulation and
implementation of export incentive schemes like fixation of drawback
rates, market development assistance etc.
188
Creating export consciousness among the exporters
Collecting and disseminating statistical information and market
intelligence about the export opportunities through various media
including newsletters, bulletins and other periodicals
Coordinating with the export inspection council on quality control and
preshipment inspection
Speedy disposal of export assistance applications and assisting small
scale units to export their products
Helping the member exporters in claiming various types of incentives
from the Government and
Keeping the member exporters informed with regard to trade enquiries
and opportunities
Commodity Boards
Commodity Boards are established by the Government of India
in order to help the organisation of industry and trade. The Boards take care of
the entire range of problems of production, marketing, promotion, competition,
etc in respect of the commodities concerned. The Commodity Boards 'are
statutory bodies taking steps for the development of cultivation, increased
productivity, processing, marketing and research and development. Offices of
the Commodity Boards are established in foreign countries for increasing the
189
exports of the commodities concerned. The Boards for the respective
commodities arrange trade fairs and exhibitions, sponsor trade delegations and
conduct market surveys for the purpose of promoting exports. All the
Commodity Boards except Central Silk Board are the registering authority and
pro vide Registration-cum-Membership Certificate (RCMC) to the member
exporters in terms of the Export-Import Policy. Commodity Boards are
established in India for the commodities such as silk, coffee, coir, rubber, spices,
tea and tobacco.
The name, address and products of the Commodity Boards
functioning in India are given below:
Sl.No.
Name of the Commodity Board
Products
1
Central Silk board
Silk
United Mansions Building (II Floor)
39, Mahatma Gandhi Road
Bangalore ? 560 001
2
Coffee Board
Coffee
No.1, Ambedkar Road
Bangalore ? 560 001
3
Coir Board
Coir
Ernakulam South
Cochin ? 682 016
190
4
Rubber Board
Natural rubber
Shastri Road
Kottayam ? 686 001
Kerala
5
Spices Board
Curry powder and paste,
Sygandh Bhavan
spices, spices oil, oleoresins
Near Ernakulam Medical Centre
Cochin ? 682 025
6
Tea Board
Tea
14, Biplabi Trailokya Maharaj Sarani
Brabourne Road
Cochin ? 700 001
7
Tobacco Board
Tobacco
and
tobacco
Srinivasa Rao Thota
products
G.T.Road,
Guntur ? 522 004
Trade Development Authority (TDA)
The Trade Development Authority was established in the year
1970 under the Societies Registration Act 1860. It is a non-profit service
organisation functioning under the Ministry of Commerce, Government of India.
191
The Director is the executive head of the organization and he is guided and
assisted by a high powered committee consists of officials of the Government
and experts in the field of foreign trade. The Secretary of the Foreign Trade
department is the Chairman of the Organisation. The Trade Development
Authority has created three important divisions to execute its functions
effectively. The three divisions are, (i) Merchandising (ii) Research and
Analysis and (iii) Information.
The Merchandising division concentrates on ways and means to
increase Indian exports in the overseas market. This division identifies the
emerging market to penetrate Indian exports in the foreign countries in the year
to come. This division attempts to promote India's foreign trade by assisting the
exporters to plan marketing strategy, product development and capacity
expansion.
The Research and Analysis division attempts to conduct
marketing research to assess the market potentials for the Indian products in the
domestic as well as overseas market. This division helps the exporters to raise
their export capabilities.
The Information division collects the relevant data regarding the
global exports countrywise and commoditywise, trend in Indian exports and
opportunities for the Indian products in the overseas market. The collected data
192
are processed and supplied to the exporters to plan their export strategies and to
maximise their exports.)
Package Services
The Trade Development Authority of India offers the following
package services for the benefit of the exporters:
(i) Product Development
(ii) Capacity Expansion
(iii) Information Supply
(iv) Promotion and Publicity
(v) Consultancy Services and other Services
Product Development
Under the product development package TDA helps the exporters
to improve the quality of their products at par with the international standard,
TDA gets specifications and samples for the products from the foreign countries
and suggests the clients-exporters to develop their products at par with the
specifications and samples. TDA arranges import licenses and customs
clearance for the benefit of exporters to import the required raw materials and
other components. It identifies what is required and demanded in the overseas
market, based on that suggests the client-exporters to modify their production
193
schedule. TDA attempts to identify technically and commercially viable export
units for providing necessary inputs to expand their exports. The Trade
Development Authority takes steps to display the Indian products in the
departmental stores of the foreign countries. This service is done under the
special product development programme.
Capacity Expansion
The TDA helps the client-exporters for their capacity expansion.
The clients of the TDA are given priority for capacity expansion over other
industrial units. The TDA assists the client-exporters to obtain industrial license
and foreign exchange and to import capital goods. It conducts feasibility studies
for the expansion ofthe export oriented units.
Information Supply
The TDA has created 'Trade Information Centre' for collecting
and disseminating the data required by the exporters. The TDA has established
overseas offices in FGR, USA, Japan, Sweden and Libya. These offices gather
the trade related information and supply to the 'Trade Information Centre'. This
centre furnishes the uptodate information relating to export credit, shipping,
insurance, licenses and product development and promotion. It conducts certain
research study to ascertain the competitiveness of the Indian export units, the
194
findings of such research study are sent to the export units to improve their
competitiveness in exports. The Trade Information Centre furnishes the export
related information through its periodicals, reports and brochures. This centre
tries to explore export potentials for the Indian products in the overseas market
by undertaking marketing research and prepares action plan for the promotion of
Indian exports. The weekly bulletin brought out by the TDA furnishes the trade
related information such as, import policies and tariff, trade fairs and
exhibitions, addresses of the foreign buyers and agents, import-export procedure
and trend in the export market, for the benefit of the exporters.
Promotion and Publicity
Promotion and publicity is another service extended by the TDA
for the benefit of exporters. Under the promotion and publicity service, TDA has
organised a number of trade fairs, exhibitions and buyer-seller meets to expose
the Indian products to the prospective buyers and to increase Indian exports.
Consultancy Services
Consultancy services provided by the TDA is highly useful to its
clients-exporters. It extends the consultancy services for maintaining and
improving quality, export pricing, project expansion, ascertaining credit
195
worthiness of the importers, entering into new overseas market, shipping, import
of raw materials etc.
Other Services
The Trade Development Authority extends its services as and
when the client-exporters approach to solve issues in the export trade. The
services needed for export maximization are provided by the TDA promptly to
the client-exporters.
Directorate General of Commercial Intelligence and Statistics (DGCf&S)
The Office of the Directorate General of Commercial Intelligence
and Statistics is situated at Calcutta. It is functioning under Ministry of
Commerce, Government of India.
The important functions of the DGCI&S are listed below:
Collection, compilation and dissemination of commercial information on
India's Trade
It acts as a mediator in settling commercial disputes through the Indian
Commercial representatives abroad between Indian and foreign firms
Publishing 'Directory of Exporters' of Indian products and manufacturers
196
Publishing Indian Trade Journal (weekly) and monthly statistics of
Foreign Trade of India for disseminating the information relating to
India's Foreign Trade and
Publishing periodical reports received from the Trade representatives of
the Indian
Government stationed in abroad. This report reveals the trade prospects
and opportunities of the Indian products in the overseas market.
Publication of the DGCI&S
(i) Monthly Statistics of Foreign Trade of India
Vol I - Exports and Reexports
Vol II-Imports
(ii) Monthly Press Note on Foreign Trade
It is published within 30-35 days from the end of the reference
month. It reveals aggregate figures on India's exports and imports,
(iii) Monthly Brochure titles 'Foreign Trade Statistics of India (Principal
Commodities and Countries)
197
This brochure reveals the export and import of principal
commodities in India. The details are given in countrywise and commoditywise
also.
(iv) Indian Trade Classification based on Harmonised Commodity
Description and Coding System
This publication shows the code number of any individual
commodity or product exported or imported. These codes are to be compulsorily
quoted both in export transaction and import transaction.
(v) Indian Trade Journal
It is a weekly journal and contains the reports of Indian
Commercial Representatives abroad. This journal highlights export
opportunities for Indian products, foreign tender notices, freight rates etc.
(vi) Other Publications
(1) Directory of Exporters-both nomenclature as well as commoditywise
(2) Ancillary Trade Statistics viz.,
(a) Trade Statistics on mter-State Movement of goods by Rail, River and Air
(b) Statistics on Customs and Excise Revenue Collections according to different
tariff heads
198
(C) Shipping Statistics of the Foreign and Coastal Cargo Movement of India
(3) Index Number of Unit Value and Quantum of Export and Import in India
The DGCI&S has established a Commercial Library in its office
at Calcutta. This library is the best source for collecting the data relating to
foreign trade. The. relevant and uptodate books and periodicals on foreign trade
are available in this library.
Federation of Indian Export Organisation (FIEO)
The Federation of Indian Export Organisation was established in
the year 1965. It is a non-profit service organisation. It is located at New Delhi.
It coordinates the various export organisations such as Export Promotion
Councils, Commodity Boards, Indian Trade Promotion Organisation and other
service organisations for deciding the policies on export promotion. It is an
advisory body to the Central and State Government for export promotion and
development. It is authorised to disburse grants under Market Development
Scheme to the exporters for the specified activities.
The important objectives of the FIEO are given below:
Promotion and development of Exports in lndia
Coordinating the Export promotion activities
Sponsoring Indian trade delegations to abroad and inviting trade
deligations from abroad
199
Sponsoring and conducting commodity and market surveys
Establishing trade centre, design centre and show rooms and opening
offices abroad
Creating common services for the benefit of exporters and export
organisations
Establishing warehouses for highly demanded Indian products in the
emerging overseas market for facilitating export
Organising trade fairs and exhibitions and publicity programmes for
Indian products
Publishing periodical reports on achievements in foreign trade, facilities
and infrastructure required for foreign trade, review ofEXIM Policy,
sectorwise growth in exports, Government policies on foreign trade etc
and
Organising seminars and conferences to gather the recommendations and
suggestions for the promotion of exports and to disseminate the policies
announced by the Government for the cause of exports.
Indian Institute of Foreign Trade
The Indian Institute of Foreign Trade was established in the year
1964. It is an autonomous body registered under Societies Registration Act. It is
located at New Delhi. It is functioning under the Ministry of Commerce,
200
Government of India. It is a pioneering institute offers training programmes on
International Trade Procedure and Documentation, Export Management,
Logistics Management, Foreign Exchange Management to the executives if
export houses. Government departments and trade organisations and other
export organisations. Training Programme on Human Resource Development in
International Business is also organised by the Institute periodically. The basic
objectives of this Institute are to provide training facilities to the executives
involved in foreign trade, to conduct marketing research in India and abroad and
commodity surveys to identify new market and market potentials for Indian
products, to collect, process and disseminate export market information to the
exporters and to undertake consultancy services to the export houses.
It undertakes a number of research studies on various subjects in
the field of foreign trade and International business. This Institute offers a two
year Post Graduate Diploma (full time) in International Trade and a one year
Master's Programme in International Business. It also offers a four months
certificate course (evening programme) to the executives who are already
engaged in export-import business.
The Indian Institute of Foreign Trade publishes two periodicals
viz.. Foreign Trade Review (quarterly) and Foreign Trade Trends & Tidings
(monthly) in order to highlight the latest trends and development in the global
trade scenario and to meet the felt needs of Indian Trade and Industry.
201
The Institute has published a number of books en foreign trade
and undertaken overseas market surveys/country studies and functional
Research Studies. The occasional papers published by this Institute on various
aspects of Liberalisation are very popular and used as study materials in many
academic institutions.
Government Trade Representatives Abroad
Government trade representatives stationed in abroad play a vital
role in boosting Indian 'exports. They supply periodical reports containing the
demand and supply of various products in the foreign markets, market surveys
for Indian products, market potential for Indian markets, new products
introduced in the foreign market and their demand, import tariff structure in
overseas market, political, social, cultural, technological and economic
environment in the foreign market etc. These reports help the Indian
Government to devise suitable strategies to tap the global market and to increase
exports. Indian Government Trade Representatives in abroad help the Indian
Trade delegations to visit the foreign countries, to meet the industrialists and
foreign Government officials for getting collaborations in trade and industry.
They assist to organise trade fairs and exhibitions in foreign countries sponsored
by the Indian agencies. Of late. Ministry of Commerce, Government of India has
created a separate office in the Indian embassies abroad for ascertaining
202
opportunities for Indian products in the foreign market and strengthening Indian
brands in the overseas market.
Trade Fairs Organised by Indian Trade Promotion Organisation (ITPO)
In the year 1996-97, ITPO has organised 30 fairs. Out of this 15
were general fairs, 12 specialised commodity fairs and 3 exclusive Indian
Exhibitions. Indian exhibitions were organised in Almaty (Kazakhstan), Sao
Paulo (Brazil) and Kathmandu (Nepal). The ITPO has provided budgetary
support for 12 fairs and 18 fairs were organised on self-financing basis. The
exclusive Indian Exhibition organised by ITPO in Kathmandu during March 14
to 21,1997 was the largest exhibition in Kathmandu so far.
The Trade and Merchandising Department of ITPO has organised
six Buyers ? Seller Meets, seven contact promotion programme, seven
specialised trade fairs abroad and one specialised trade fair in India.
No. of
Place
Products
Buyer-Seller
Meets
3
Osaka Japan
Home
furnishings
Garments
Fashion
Accessories
Building
Materials
1
Buenos Aires Argentina Variety of products
203
1
Cape
Town
South Textile and Garments
Africa
1
Dubai
Engineering and Consumer Sector
Contact Promotion Programme Organised
Products
Country
Dyes and Intermediaries
France Germany Italy
Hardware
Germany UK
Medical and Hospital Equipment
Kenya Egypt
Home Furnishings
USA Canada
Household and Kitchenware
South Africa Botswana Swasiland
Power Equipments and Accessories
UAE Oman Bahrain Saudi Arabia
Forgings
France Germany
Given below is the specialised Trade Fairs organised by the
Trade Development and Merchandising Department of ITPO during 1996-97.
Four specialised trade fairs were organised in Japan. They are listed below:
Osaka International Trade Fair
Osaka West Japan Import Fair
Kitaueyushu Asia Auto Business Fair
Foodexl997
204
One trade fair was organised in Germany. (Auto Mechanika 96, Frankfurt)
The trade fairs were organised in USA. They are, Big-I/ APPAA'
96, Las Vegas and mterbike '96 at Anaheim, for bicycles.
During the year 1996-97, ITPO has organised eleven fairs in
India. Out of these, seven were specialised fairs. These were Shoe Fair
Shoecomp Fair, AHARA, International Leather Goods Fair, India International
Leather Fair, Mystique India and Book Fair. The number of exhibitions in the
India International Trade Fair was approximately 3 000 including those
participated through the State pavilions and pavilions of Ministries.
Apparel Export Promotion Council (AEPC) is also actively
involved in organising trade fairs both national and international for the benefit
of the Indian exporters. Buyer-Seller Meets are also organised by the AEPC as
one of its activities of export promotion.
The following Buyer-Seller Meets were organised by the Apparel
Export Promotion Council during the year 1997-98.
1. Buyer-SeUerMeetinBrazil^hileandArgentmay^May, 1997)
2. Buyer-Seller Meet in South Africa (5-14 February 1998)
3. Buyer-Seller Meet in Australia and New Zealand (9-18 February 1998)
4. Buyer-SeUerMeetmMexico,ColumbiaandChile(3-18Marchl998)
205
The Apparel Export Promotion Council with the assistance of
other leading associations representing Apparel Exporters organised the
following fairs during the year 1997-98.
1. 19th India International Garment Fair (II GF), 18-21 July l997 at New Delhi.
2. 20th India International Garment Fair, 29-31January l998 at New Delhi
The Apparel Export Promotion Council and Timpur Exporters
Association jointly organised the following fairs during the year 1997-98.
1. 3rd India Knit Fair (IKF), 29th April to 1st May,1997 at Tirupur
2. 4th India Knit Fair (IKF), 27 - 29 November, 1997; at Tirupur
The Apparel Export Promotion Council in collaboration with the
Apparel Exporters and Manufacturers Association (AEMA), New Delhi,
Apparel and Handloom Exporters Association (AHEA), Chennai, Clothing
Manufacturers Association of India (CMA1), Mumbai and Garment Exporters
Association (GEA), New Delhi, is organising India International Garment Fair
twice a year. It has become one of the leading international fail for foreign
buyers and their buying agents in India to source high fashions garments from
India The fair provides excellent opportunities to the garment exporters to enter
into the international market extensively and to increase their market share in the
overseas market.
Trade Fairs organised in India
206
The following information shows the details of Trade
Fairs/Exhibitions organised in India during the year 1997-98.
Fair
Month
& Place
Scope
Year
Garmentech
29th 0ct to 1st Pragati
Sewing Machines Knitting
Nov 1998
Maiden New Machine
Embroidery
Delhi
Machine
Sewingrelated
equipments Facilities &
equipment
for
apparal
manufacturer
CAD/CAM
systems
Packaging
Trimming Embellishments
Trade Publications Turnkey
Projects
Software
Auxilharies Support Service
etc.
Textile'99
10th to 12th Feb Chennai
World Expo
1999
Gartex
March/April
Pragati
Garment Machinery Fabrics
1999
Maidan New & Accessories
207
Delhi
India
29th Jan to 4th Pragati
High Fashion Garments
International
Feb 1999
Maidan New
Garments
Delhi
Tex Styles India 1st to 4th Feb Pragati
Fabrics
Yams
Threads
`99
1999
Maidan New Textiles Furnishing Made-
Delhi
ups
Accessories
Embellishments
India Knit Fair May 1999
Tirupur
Sportwear
Swimwear
Spring Summer
Tamil Nadu nightwear lingeries T-Shirts
Polo
Shorts
Collection
Blouses Jacketies Shorts
Bermudas Kids-wear &
other knitwear.
Indian
10th to 13th Oct Pragati
All Handicrafts and gifts
Handicrafts & `98
Maidan New item.
Gifts
Fair
Delhi
Autumn'98
Spring'99
26th to 28th
Feb.'99
Sajavat'99
August 1999
Pragati
Giftwear Artificial Plants
208
Maidan New Flowers
Leather
Goods
Delhi
Toys Home
Appliances
Electrical Goods.
Indian
31st Jan to 4th Chennai
Leather products &
International
Feb `99
Accessories
Leather
Leather Fair `99
Machinery & Equipments.
Indian
March 1999 4th Calcutta
Leather
Goods
&
International
Feb `99
Products.
Leather Fair `99
Delhi
July'99
Pragati
Footwear Dress Shoes for
International
Maidan New Men Women and Children
Shoe Fair `99
Delhi
Shoecomp'99
July'99
Pragati
Shoe
components
Maidan New Accessories
&
Delhi
Manufacturing aids.
5th Indian Knit 28th to 30th Tirupur
Sports wear Swim wear
Fair
May 1998
Night wear Lingeries T-
Shirts Polo Shirts Blouses
Jacketies Shorts Bermudas
Kids Wear & Other Knit
wears
209
Health
& 24th to 26th Mumbai
Medical
&
Hospital
Medicare India June 1998
Equipment & Supplies Re-
`98
habilitation Health Care
Products in conjunction with
6th
International
Multifaculty
Medical
conference.
Shoe Comp `98 2nd to 4th July Pragati
Components accessories
1998
Maidan New and manufacturing aids like
Delhi
soles insoles toe-puffs
counters diking knives tacks
heals
straps
adhesives
chemicals etc.
Delhi Intl. Shoe 2nd to 5th July Pragati
Footwear for men women
Fair
1998
Maidan New and children dress shoes for
Delhi
men and women horachi
shoes and sandels Kothapur
chappals ballerines sandels
etc.
Sajavat
8th to 16th Pragati
Giftware artificial plants and
August 1998
Maidan New flowers crockery and cutlery
210
Delhi
leather goods toys home
appliances food processing
equipment electrical goods
etc.
Mystique India
7th to 15th Oct Pragati
Aayurveda Siddha Unam
1998
Maidan New Homeopathy
and
Delhi
Naturopathy
systems
medicine acupunture and
acupressure
alternative
therapies anit aids cancer
polio remedies and heart
care
programme
Yoga
Mediation
Astrologer
Palmistry Numerology and
Vastu Health food products
and nature cure equipment
etc.
3rd
Delhi 9th to 12th Oct Pragati
Jewellery
of
Diamond
International
1998
Maidan New platinum
Gold
Silver
Jewellery
&
Delhi
Gemset Jewellery Pearls
Watch `98
Corals & Jade Machinery &
211
Equps
packaging
&
publications
Jewellery
watches Precious & Semi-
precious stone
Indian
10th to 13th Pragati
All Handicrafts and Gifts
Handicrafts & Oct 1998
Maidan New item
Gifts Fair
Delhi
Trade Fair Authority of India (TFAI)
Trade Fair Authority of India is one of the service institution
functioning under the Ministry of Commerce, Government of India for the
purpose of promoting exports. It was established in December, 1976 under the
Companies Act, 1956. It was established by amalgamating the two service
institutions, viz., Directorate of Exhibitions and Commercial Publicity and India
International Trade Fair Organisation. TFAI started functioning from March,
1977. It has become a nodel agency for organising trade fairs and exhibitions in
India and foreign countries.
The important objectives of the Trade Fair Authority of India are
given below:
212
o to undertake promotion of exports and to explore new markets for
traditional items of export by organising trade fairs and exhibitions in
India and abroad
o to establish show-rooms for the Indian products in India and abroad
o to publicise the ensuing trade fairs and exhibitions in India and abroad
o to extend infrastructural support to the interested organisations for
holding fairs and exhibitions in India and abroad
o to identify emerging markets for diversification and expansion of Indian
exports
o to take steps for projecting India's progress and achievements in
industrial and technological development in various fields through trade
promotion and development
The Trade Fair Authority of India has organised trade fairs and
exhibitions throughout he world and created awareness about the Indian
products in the global market by displaying Indian quality products in the
overseas markets. TFAI has successfully organised trade fairs and exhibitions in
engineering goods, publishing industries, power, mining and machinery
engineering. Pragati Maidan situated at New Delhi is a permanent venue for
organizing national and international trade, trade fairs and exhibitions. It is a
permanent exhibition complex and equipped with all infrastructural facilities
required for organising trade fairs and exhibitions such as, spacious place to
213
cover several halls and pavilions, warehousing facilities, banking, post and
telegraph office, control room, fire station, hospital, electricity, drinking water,
conference hall, auditorium, restaurant, etc. Many foreign countries participate
in the International Trade Fairs organised in India. It helps to identify the
products to be imported and find out buyers to export our products and to
observe the recent sophisticated technology in diverse fields of agriculture,
industry and services sector. The Trade Fair Authority of India has organised
seminars and conferences to create awareness about the i trade fairs and
exhibitions among the Indian exporters.
The Trade Fair Authority of India has participated in many
international trade fairs in foreign countries and projected India's progress and
achievement in various sectors of the economy. It has coordinated with the
Indian Mission abroad, Ministry of Commerce and Ministry of External Affairs,
Government of India for organising multinational trade fairs and exhibitions. It
brought out three journals for disseminating the market potential for Indian
products in the overseas market. The three journals are, Udyog Vyapar Patrika,
Indian Export Bulletin and Economic and Commercial News. These journals
published the authentic information about the country's progress in business,
trade and industry.
SPECIAL ECONOMIC ZONES IN INDIA
214
A policy was introduced in the Exim Policy effective from
1.4.2000 for setting up of Special Economic Zones in the country with a view to
provide an internationally competitive and hassle free environment for exports.
Units may be set up in SEZ for manufacture, of goods and rendering of services.
All the import/export operations of the SEZ units will be on self-certification
basis. The units in the zone have to be a net foreign exchange earner but they
shall not be subjected to any pre-determined value addition or minimum export
performance requirements. Sales in the Domestic Tariff Area by SEZ units shall
be subject to payment of full Custom Duty and Import Policy in force.
The policy provides for setting up of SEZs in the public, private
joint sector or by State Governments. It was also envisaged that some of the
existing export processing zones would be converted into Special Economic
Zones. Accordingly, the Government has converted Export Processing zones
located at Kandla and Surat (Gujara), Cochin (Kerala), Santa Cruz (Mumbai-
Maharashtra), Falta (West Bengal), Madras (Tamilnadu), Visakhapatnam
(Andhra Pradesh) and Noida (Uttar Pradesh) into a Special Economic Zones.
SALIENT FEATURES
A designated duty free enclave and to be treated as foreign territory for
trade operations and duties and tariffs.
No licence required for import.
Manufacturing, trading or service activity allowed.
215
SEZ unit to be positive net foreign exchange earner within three years.
Performance of the units to be monitored by a committee headed by
Development Commissioner and consisting of customs.
No fixed wastage norms.
Full freedom for subcontracting including subcontracting abroad.
Duty free goods to be utilized in 5 years.
Job work on behalf of domestic exporters for direct exports allowed.
Contract farming allowed agriculture/horticulture units.
No routine examination by customs of export and import cargo.
No separate documentation required for customs and exim policy.
In house customs clearance.
Support services like banking, post office, clearing agents etc. provided
in zone complex.
Developed plots and ready to use built up space.
POLICY FOR DEVELOPMENT OF SPECIAL ECONOMIC ZONE
With a view to augmenting infrastructure facilities for export
production it has been decided to permit the setting up of Special Economic
Zones (SEZs) in the public, private, joint sector or by the State Governments.
The minimum size of the Special Economic Zone shall not be less than 1000
hectares. Minimum area requirement shall, however, not be applicable to
product-specific and port/air-port based SEZs. This measure is expected to
216
promote self-contained areas supported by world-class infrastructure oriented
towards export production.
WHO CAN SET UP?
Any private/public/joint sector or state government or its
agencies can set up Special Economic Zone (SEZ).
HOW TO APPLY?
15 copies of application, indicating name and address of the
applicant, status of the promoter along with a project report covering the
following particulars may be submitted to the Chief Secretary of the state:
Location of the proposed zone with details of existing infrastructure and
that proposed to be established.
Its area, distance from the nearest sea port/airport/rail/road head etc.
Financial details, including investing proposed, mode of financing and
viability of the project.
Details of foreign equity and repatriation of dividends etc., if any
Whether the zone will allow only certain specific industries or will be a
multiple-product zone.
The state government shall, forward it along with their
commitment to the following to the Department of Commerce, Government of
India:
217
That area incorporated in the proposed Special Economic Zone is free
from environmental restrictions.
That water, electricity and other services would be provided as required.
That the units would be given full exemption in electricity duty and tax
on sale of electricity for self generated and purchased power.
To allow generation, transmission and distribution of power within SEZ.
To exempt from state sales tax, octroi, mandi tax, turnover tax and any
other duty/cess or levies on the supply of goods from Domestic Tariff area to
SEZ units.
That for units inside the zone, the powers under the Industrial Disputes
Act and other related labour Acts would be delegated to the Development
Commissioner and that the units will be declared as a Public Utility Service
under Industrial Disputes Act.
The single point clearances system and minimum inspections
requirements under state law / rules would be provided. The proposal
incorporating the commitments of the state government will be considered
by an inter-Ministerial Committee in the Department of Commerce. On
acceptance of the proposal, a letter of permission will be issued to the
applicant.
ARE THERE ANY TERMS AND CONDITIONS?
218
Only units approved under SEZ scheme would be permitted to be located
in SEZ.
The SEZ units shall abide by local laws, rules, regulations or bye-laws in
regard to area planning, sewerage disposal, pollution control and the like.
They shall also comply with industrial and labour laws as may be locally
applicable.
Such SEZ shall make security arrangement to fulfill all the requirements
of the laws, rules and procedures applicable to such SEZ.
The SEZ should have a minimum area of 1000 hectares and at least 25%
of the area is to be earmarked for developing industrial area for setting up of
units.
Minimum area of 1000 hectares will not be applicable to product specific
and air-port based SEZs.
Wherever the SEZs are landlocked, an inland container depot (ICD) will
be an integral part of SEZs.
FACILITIES TO SEZ DEVELOPER
100% FDI allowed for; (a) townships with residential educational and
recreational facilities on a case to case basis, (b) franchise for basic
telephone service in SEZ.
219
Income tax benefit under (80 1A) to developers for any block of 10 years
in 15 years.
Duty free import/domestic procurement of goods for development,
operation and maintenance of SEZs.
Exemption from service tax.
Income of infrastructure capital fund/company from investment in SEZ
exempt from investment in SEZ exempt from income tax.
Investment made by individuals etc. in a SEZ company also eligible for
exemption u/s 88 of IT Act.
Developer permitted to transfer infrastructure facility for operation and
maintenance.
Generation, transmission and distribution of power in SEZs allowed full
freedom in allocation of space and built up area to approved SEZ units on
commercial basis.
Authorized to provide and maintain service like water, electricity,
security, restaurants and recreation centres on commercial lines.
HOW TO SET UP A UNIT IN SEZ?
For setting up a manufacturing, trading or service units in SEZ, 3
copies of project proposal in the format prescribed at Appendix 14-1A of the
220
Handbook of Procedures, vol.1 to be submitted to the Development
Commissioner of the SEZ.
WHAT IS THE APPROVAL MECHANISM?
All approval to be given by the unit approval committee headed
by the Development Commissioner, Clearance from the Department of Policy
and Promotion / Board of Approvals, wherever required will be obtained by the
Development Commissioner, before the Letter of intent is issued.
WHAT IS THE OBLIGATION OF THE UNIT UNDER THE SCHEME?
SEZ units have to achieve positive net foreign exchange earning as per
the formula given in paragraph appendix 14-11 (para 12.1) of Handbook of
procedures, Vol.1. For this purpose, a legal undertaking is required to be
executed by the unit with the Development Commissioner.
The units have to provide periodic reports to the Development
Commissioner and zone customs as provided in Appendix 14-1F of the
handbook of procedures, vol.1.
The units are also to execute a bond with the zone customs for their
operation in the SEZ.
FACILITEIS TO SEZ ENTERPRISES
221
CUSTOMS AND EXCISE
SEZ units may import or procure from the domestic sources, duty free,
all their requirements of capital goods, raw materials, consumables, spares,
packing materials, office equipment, DG sets etc. for implementation of their
project in the zone without any licnese or specific approval.
Duty free import/domestic procurement of goods for development,
operation and maintenance of SEZ units.
Goods imported/procured locally duty free could be utilized over the
approval period of 5 years.
Domestic sales by SEZ units will now be exempt from SAD.
INCOME TAX
100% income-tax exemption (10A) for first 5 years and 50% for 2 years
thereafter.
FOREIGN DIRECT INVESTMENT
100% foreign direct investment is freely allowed in manufacturing sector
in SEZ units under automatic route, except arms and ammunition, explosive,
atomic substance, narcotics and hazardous chemicals, distillation and
brewing of alcoholic drinks and cigarettes, cigars and manufactured tobacco
substitutes.
222
No cap on foreign investments for SSI reserved items.
OFF-SHORE BANKING (OBUs)
Setting up of off-shore banking units allowed in SEZs.
OBUs entitled for 100% income-tax exemption for 3 years & 50% for
next 2 years.
BANKING / EXTERNAL COMMERCIAL BORROWINGS
External commercial borrowings by units up to $ 500 million a year
allowed without any maturity restrictions.
Freedom to bring in export proceeds without any time limit.
Flexibility to keep 100% of export proceeds in EEFC account. Freedom
to make overseas investment from it.
Commodity hedging permitted.
Exemption from interest rate surcharge on import finance.
SEZ units allowed to write-off` unrealized export bills.
Exemption from interest rate surcharge on import finance.
GENERAL SALES TAX ACT
Exemption to sales made from Domestic Tariff Area to SEZ units.
223
SERVICE TAX
Exemption from service tax to SEZ units.
ENVIRONMENT
SEZs permitted to have non-polluting industries in IT, and recreational
facilities like golf courses, desalination plants, hotels and non-polluting
service industries in the coastal regulation zone area.
Exemption from public hearing under environment impact assessment
notification.
COMPANIES ACT
Enhanced limit of Rs.2.4 crore per annum allowed for managerial
remuneration.
Regional office of Register of Companies in SEZs
Exemption from requirement of domicile in India for 12 months prior to
appointment as Director.
DRUGS AND COSMETICS
Exemption from port restriction under Drugs & Cosmetics Rules.
SUB-CONTRACTING / CONTRACT FRAMING
SEZ units may sub-contract part of production or production process
through units in the Domestic Tariff Area or through other EOU/SEZ units.
SEZ units may also sub-contract part of their production process abroad.
224
Agriculture/Horticulture processing SEZ units allowed to provide inputs
and equipments to contract farmers in DTA to promote production of goods
as per the requirement of importing countries.
ARE THERE ANY RELAXATION IN LABOUR LAWS FOR SEZ UNITS?
The labour laws of the land will apply to all units inside the zone.
However, the respective state governments may declare units within the SEZ as
public utilities and may delegate the powers of the labour commissioner to the
Development Commissioner of the SEZ.
FACILITIES FOR DOMESTIC SUPPLIERS TO SPECIAL ECONOMIC
ZONE
Supplies from Domestic Tariff Area (DTA) to SEZ to be treated as
physical export. DTA supplier would be entitled to:
Drawback/DEPB
CST Exemption
Exemption from state levies
Discharge of EP if any on the suppliers
Income-tax exemption under section 80-HHC
WHAT IS THE POLICY FRAME FOR SEZs?
The policy frame work of SEZ units and SEZ developer is
contained in the following:
Chapter 7 of Export and Import policy
225
Appendix 14-II of Handbook of Procedures, vol.1
All relevant notifications and information is available at website
www.sezindia.nic.in
LIST OF FUNCTIONAL SPECIAL ECONOMIC ZONE
S.No. Location
Address
1
SEEPZ (Mumbai)
Development Commissioner,
SEEPZ Special Economic Zone,
Andheri (East) Mumbai ? 400 096.
Tel: 91-22-28290046, 28292147, 28292144
Fax: 91-22-28291385, 2829175
E-mail: dcseepz@vsnl.com
Website: www.seepz.com
2
Kandla (Gujarat)
Development Commissioner,
Kandla Special Economic Zone,
Gandhidham ? Kachchh,
Tel: 91-2836-252194, 252475, 253300,
252281
Fax: 91-2836-252250
E-mail: ksez@sancharnet.in
Website: www.kandlasez.com
3.
Cochin (Kerala)
Development Commissioner,
226
Cochin Special Economic Zone,
Kakkanmad, Cochin ? 682 030.
Tel: 91-484-2413111, 2413234
Fax: 91-484-2413074
E-mail: mail@cepz.com
Website: www.csez.com
4.
Madras (Chennai)
Development Commissioner,
Madras Special Economic Zone,
National Highways 45, Tambaram,
Chennai ? 600 045.
MEPZ CHENNAI
Fax: 91-44-2628218
E-mail: mepz@vsnl.com
mepz@md5-vsnl.net.in
5.
Visakhapatnam
Development Commissioner,
(Andhra Pradesh)
Visakhapatnam Special Economic Zone,
Duvvada, Visakhapatnam ? 530 046.
Tel: 91-891-2587555, 2587352
Fax: 91-891-2587352
E-mail: dc@vepz.com
227
6.
Falta (West Bengal)
Development Commissioner,
Falta Special Economic Zone,
M.S.O.Building 4th Floor, Nizam Palace,
Koltaka ? 700 020.
Tel: 91-33-22472263, 22477923, 22404092
Fax: 91-33-22477923
E-mail: fepz@wb.nic.in
7.
Noida (Uttar Pradesh)
Development Commissioner,
Noida Export Processing Zone,
Noida Dadri Road,
Phase-II, Noida District
Gautam Budh Nagar ? 201305 (U.P)
Tel: From Delhi: 91-120-2567270-73
From outside delhi: 91-120-2567270-3
Fax: 91-120-2562314, 91-2567276
E-mail: dcnepz@nda.vsnl.net.in
8.
Surat (Gujarat)
Surat Special Economic Zone,
Diamond Park, Sachin
Surat ? 394 230
Tel: 91-261-2372733, 2372734
E-mail: maria@bom3.vsnl.net.in
228
9.
Indore SEZ
Indore Special Economic Zone,
(Madhya Pradesh)
3/54, Press Complex,
Free Press Home, H.B.Road,
Indore ? 452 008.
Tel: 91-731-257229
E-mail: md@sezindore.com
Website: www.sezindore.com
229
LIST OF APPROVED SEZ
Name of the SEZ Name of Promoter
Telephone (Office)
Navi
Mumbai Voice Chairman and Managing 91-22-2026665
SEZ
Director
91-22-2021155
(Mharashtra)
City & Industrial Development
Fax: 91-22-2757-1066
Corporation of Maharashtra Ltd.
E-
Nirmal, 2nd floor, Nariman Point,
mail:cidsys@giasbm01.vsnl.net.i
Mumbai ? 400 021.
n
Positra SEZ
Gujarat Postra Port Infrastructure 91-22-2270 3031
(Gujarat)
Ltd. Pipavav House, 209 Bank St., Fax: 91-22-2269 6021
Cross Lane,
Off. Shahid Bhagat Singh Road,
Fort, Mumbai ? 400 023.
Nanguneri SEZ
Chairman cum Managing Director 91-44-28554421
(Tamil Nadu)
Tamil
Nadu
&
Industrial Fax: 044-8553729
Development Corporation,
Lakshimipathy Road,
Chennai ? 600 008.
Bhadohi SEZ
Managing Director, UP State 91-512-2582851-53
Kanpur SEZ
Industrial
Development Fax: 91-512-2380797
Moredabad SEZ
Corporation
Ltd.,
UPSIDC E-mail:feedback@upsidcltd.com
230
(Uttar Pradesh)
Complex, A-1/4, Lakhanpur,
Kanpur ? 208 024.
Greater Noida
Greater
Noida
Development
(U.P)
Authority, Greater Noida, UP
Visakhapatanum A.P.
Industrial
Infrastructure 91-40-23233596
SEZ
Corporation Ltd.,
91-40-23230234
(Andhra
Parisrama Bhavanam 6th Floor,
Fax: 91-40-232340205
Pradesh)
5-8-58/B, Fateh Maidan Road,
Hyderabad ? 500 004.
Kakinada SEZ
Kakinada Sea Port Ltd.,
91-884-2365089, 2365889
(Andhra
2nd Floor, Post Administrative Fax: 91-884-2365989
Pradesh)
Building Beach Road,
E-mail:kakinadaport@vsnl.net
kakinada ? 533 007.
Paradeep SEZ
Managing
Director,
Industrial 91-674-2542784, 2540820
Gopalpur SEZ
Development
Corporation
of Fax: 91-674-2542956
(Orissa)
Orissa (IDCO), IDCO Tower, E-mail: md@idcoindia.com
Janpath,
Bhuvaneshwar,
Bhuvaneshwar ? 751 001.
Sah Lake SEZ
West
Bengal
Industrial 91-33-22486583,
22101536/
Kulpi SEZ
Development Corporation Ld.,
62/63/64/65
(West Bengal)
5, Council House Street,
Fax: 91-33-2248-3737
231
Kolkata ? 700 001.
E-mail: mdbidc@vsnl.com
232
Sitapura SEZ
Managing Director,
91-141-2380751, 2413201
Jaipur
Rajasthan State Industrial,
Fax: 91-141-2404804
(Rajasthan)
Development
&
Investment, E-mail: riico@riico.com
Corporation Ltd. (RIICO)
Udyaog Bhawan, Tilak Marg,
Jaipur ? 302 005.
Maha
Mumbai Gujarat Posita Port Infrastructure 91-22-2270-30311
SEZ
Ltd., Pipavav House, 209 Bank Fax: 91-22-2269-6021
(Maharashtra)
Street, Cross lane, off. Shahid
Bhagat
E-mail: riico@riico.com
Singh Road, Fort,
Mumbai ? 400 023.
Vallarpadam/
Cochin Port Trust Willington 91-484-2669200, 2668566
Puthuvypeen
Island, Cochin Ltd.,
Fax: 91-484-2668163
(Kerala)
Pipavav House, 209 Bank St.,
Cross Lane, off. Shahid Bhagat
E-mail: riico@riico.com
Singh Road, Fort,
Mumbai ? 400 023.
233
Hassan SEZ
Principal Secretary,
91-80-22280605, 22092397
(Karnataka)
Infrastructure
Development Fax: 91-80-22280605
Department,
E-mail:psecinfra@
Government of Karnataka,
secretariat2.kar.nic.in
5th Stage, M.S. Building,
Dr.Ambedkar Veedi,
Bangalore ? 560 001.
Source:
Special Economic Zones in India, Investor`s Guide, Ministry of
Commerce and Industry, Department of Commerce, Government of India.
ARE SPECIAL ECONOMIC ZONES TOO COSTLY?
The logic of creating a special economic zone is to offer
infrastructure and other facilities that cannot be provided quite so easily across
the country as a whole. The objective is to create islands of world-class
infrastructure to reduce the cost of doing business and make industry globally
competitive. This would mean assured electricity availability at competitive
rates, availability of capital at internationally benchmarked rates, good transport
links to reduce shipment time and delays, and flexible labour laws. In India,
SEZs are being developed by the private sector or public sector or through
private-public partnership. Since SEZs require massive investments and have
234
relatively longer gestation period, proper mix of stable SEZ policy coupled with
fiscal benefits need to be extended to the zones.
The fiscal concessions has made it possible for private players to
look at SEZs as a profitable and new business opportunity. This has also helped
provide infrastructure and other facilities to units in SEZs at substantially lower
cost. Laying a kilometre of road costs Rs. 5 crore in our country, of which 30%
goes to taxes. The exemption given to developer will ultimately percolate to
units. In many states, industry pays as high as Rs 7 for a unit of power where as
all the large SEZs in the world provide electricity at Rs 2. The removal of
electricity duty will help in providing electricity at internationally benchmarked
rates. Banks in SEZs are exempted from SLR and CRR requirements and also
enjoy income tax concession. Thus the capital cost is lower for these banks
which they will pass on to their customers.
A narrow view is being taken by interpreting SEZs as a loss
making venture from revenue point of view as it may lead to revenue loss of
about Rs 90,000 crore over a period of time. This fear is base-less as SEZs can
be a pivot for attracting FDI both in manufacturing and retail trade. It can
provide flexibility to global major players to tap the Asean and Gulf markets. It
may be emphasised that no government should provide primacy to revenue
considerations over employment, exports and infrastructure development.
(Source: The Economic Times, 14th April, 2006).
235
SEZs may become a burden on taxpayers
By offering privileged trading terms for export-oriented units,
SEZs are expected to attract investment and foreign exchange, spur employment
and boost the development of improved technologies and infrastructure. These
zones are designated duty-free enclaves, and are deemed foreign territories for
the purpose of trade operations, duties and tariffs. Indian SEZs have more than
800 units, employing 1 lakh people with export growth of 32% in 2004-05
(around Rs 18,000 crore) covering sectors like gems and jewellery, textiles,
software, leather and chemicals.
Despite their appeal, many economists feel that SEZs attract
investment only by offering distortionary incentives rather than building
underlying competitive conditions. It is difficult to achieve 'comparative
advantage' only by setting up SEZs. The success of any SEZ depends on
conditions such as proper location, right kind of incentives, product specific
policies, linkage between domestic sector and SEZ, financing issues and
availability of sufficient trained human capital, etc. Along with the supply side
conditions, identification of markets, multi-market strategy, brand development
and so on are equally important for which strategies are quite independent of
location of firms (inside or outside of SEZs).
236
Many critics feel that SEZs could be the victim of 'allocative
inefficiency'. As the policy inside the zone is quite attractive in terms of
facilities and fiscal incentives, many investors may blindly relocate their
operations inside the zone without giving due consideration to investment
decisions in other areas. Hence, the incentives to firms may create a fiscal
burden on the taxpayer and sometimes hurt environmental and labour standards.
In addition, the direct and indirect costs of maintaining zone privileges lead to
enclaves of prosperity and does not benefit the economy in the true sense. The
success of SEZs depends on government's strategy to promote private sector-led
growth. Active linkage programmes, adequate social and environmental
safeguards, and private sector involvement in zone development and operation
can go a long way in ensuring that the benefits of SEZs are maximised.
(Source: The Economic Times, 14th April, 2006)
3.6
JOINT VENTURES
Liberalisation has created new avenues for foreign investment,
technology collaboration and joint ventures. Among these three, joint venture is
the easy way to enter into the business by the domestic industries and the
foreign counterparts. Joint ventures benefit the investing firm, investing country
and the host country. Joint venture aims to achieve collective self-reliance and
mutual cooperation among the developing countries. The basic objectives of the
joint venture are summarised below:
237
- To increase export of capital goods, spare parts and components from India
- To increase the export of technical knowhow and consultancy services
- To project India's image abroad as a supplier of capital goods and updated
technology to the global market
- To utilise the idle capacity in the capital goods sector in particular and
industrial sector in general
Foreign countries prefer to enter into joint venture with the Indian
industries, because the labour intensive nature of the Indian industries is suited
to fulfil the requirements of the foreign counterparts. While Indian companies
enter into joint venture with the developed countries, Indian companies are
getting the opportunities to avail the technology of the industries are also
expected to invest in the foreign countries and enter into foreign market rough
joint ventures.
Requirements for Indian direct investment in joint ventures abroad
Transparent policy is required to enable Indian industries to plan
their business activity and to negotiate with the potential foreign counterparts for
collaboration. Financial support of the financial institutions and banks are also
required for entering into joint venture with the collaborator outside the country.
Many developing countries offer incentives such as tax holiday,
export incentives, guarantee against expropriation, freedom to remit profits and
238
repatriate capital and protective tariff to encourage joint ventures by foreign
collaboration in their country. The developing countries prefer joint ventures
from India. Because the labour intensity of the Indian industries is suited to the
requirements of the developing nations. The developing countries having limited
domestic market may not be in aposition to absorb the capital intensive
technology provided by the developed countries. So they prefer medium scale
technology with labour intensive developed by India.
Varshenoy and Bhattacharya in their book. International
Marketing have pointed out some factors influencing the selection of a country
for the establishment of joint ventures. The factors are given below:
(1) Market for the products concerned
a. Size of the market
b. Market growth
c. Existing competition local and
foreign
(2) Government Regulations
a. Tax concessions and incentives
b. Price controls and their severity
c. Local content requirements
d. Export obligations
e. Extents of equity holding permitted
f. Degree and nature of protection
g. Repatriation of capital and profits
239
(3) Economic Stability
a. Economy and its management
b. Fiscal Policies
c. Growth Rate
d. Degree of Inflation
e. Trade balance and balance of
payments
f. Balance of indebtedness
g. Import and debt service cover
(4) Political Stability institutions
a. Sound political
b. Mechanism for orderly transfer of
power
c. Acceptance of the obligations of the
previous Government
d. Political relations with India
joint Ventures Abroad
Many Indian companies have entered into joint ventures abroad.
There were 524 joint ventures as on 31 st December 1994, Out of the 524 joint
ventures, 177 were in operation and the remaining 347 were at different stages
of implementation. The Government of India has approved 216 joint ventures in
1995 and 255 in 1996. The total Indian equity in the 177 joint ventures in
240
operation abroad was at Rs. 179.04 crore and the approved equity for joint
ventures under various stages of implementation is amounted to Rs. 1398.96
crore. Of the 177 joint ventures which are in operation, 99 (56%) are in the field
of manufacturing and the remaining 78 (44%) are sanctioning in the non-
manufacturing sector. Indian equity in joint venture has been mainly through
export of machinery and equipment/technology/or capitalisation of earnings of
the Indian company through provision of technical know how or other services.
.
The scale of operations of the Indian joint ventures abroad is
generally small. The shareholding of the Indian joint venture is less than Rs. 50
lakhs in most of the operating joint ventures. Of late, projects under joint
venture with large equity base are coming up. The Governmental policies and
guidelines for joint venture encourage Indian joint venture abroad with large
equity base and insist the Indian enterprises to carefully select the economically
viable projects capable of not only coming higher returns but also projecting
better image of Indian expertise and technology in the overseas market.
Indian joint ventures abroad are engaged in the manufacturing
and non-manufacturing sectors. The mdianjoint ventures are functioning in the
manufacturing sectors such as, light engineering, textiles, chemicals,
pharmaceuticals, food products, leather and rubber products, iron and steel,
commercial vehicles, pulp and paper and cement products etc. The non-
241
manufacturing sectors are hotels and restaurants, trading and marketing,
consultancy, engineering and construction. Indian joint ventures are in operation
in the UK, Malaysia, the USA, UAE, Singapore, Srilanka, Russia, Nepal,
Thailand, Mauritius, Nigeria, Indonesia and Hong Kong. Majority of the Indian
joint ventures are in operation in the East Asia region followed by Europe-
America region, Africa region. South Asia region and West Asia region.
The earnings of the Indian joint ventures abroad are in the form
of dividends and other entitlements of the Indian promoters such as fee for the
technical know how, engineering services, management services, consultancy
and royalty. Substantial foreign exchange could be earned by exporting
machineries and other inputs to joint ventures. The Indian promoters are getting
bonus shares also when the joint ventures declare bonus shares. This enables the
Indian promoters to raise their equity and to earn higher dividends.
Indian joint ventures are facing many problems in the initial
stage, implementation Stage and operational stage.
Following are the reasons identified for the problems faced by the
Indian joint ventures abroad:
- Inability to assess the market prospects
- Failure to identify the right foreign counterpart
- Non-approval of technology sought to be supplied by Indian partners
242
- Inability of the Indian companies to adjust themselves in the new environment
and (no sheltered market in the overseas market)
- Price competition
Definitions
(a) Direct Investment shall mean investment by an Indian party in the equity
share capital of a foreign concern with a view to acquiring a long term interest in
that concern. Besides the equity stake, such long term interest may be reflected
through representation on the Board of Directors of the foreign concern and in
the supply of technical know-how, capital goods, components, raw materials,
etc. and managerial personnel to the foreign concern.
(b) Host Country shall mean the country in which the foreign concern receiving
the direct investment is formed, registered or incorporated.
(c) Indian party shall mean a private or public limited company incorporated in
accordance with the laws of India. When more than one Indian body corporate
make a direct investment in a foreign concern, all the bodies corporate shall
together constitute the "Indian party".
(d) Joint Venture shall mean a foreign concern formed, registered or
incorporated in accordance with the laws and regulations of the host country in
which the Indian party makes a direct investment, whether such investment
amounts to a majority or minority shareholding.
243
(e) Wholly Owned Subsidiary shall mean foreign concern formed, registered
or incorporated in accordance with the laws and regulations of the host country
whose entire equity share capital is owned by the Indian party.
Automatic Approval
An application for direct investment in aj oint venture/wholly
owned subsidiary abroad from a Private/Public Ltd. Co. will be eligible for
automatic approval by R.B.I. provided:
(i) the total value of the investment by the Indian party does not exceed US $4
(four) million,
(ii) the amount of investment is upto 25% of annual average export earnings of
the company in the preceding three years and
(iii) the amount of investment should be repatriated in full by way of dividends,
royalty, technical services fee etc. within a period of five years investment.
The investment may, besides cash remittance at the discretion of
the Indian party, be contributed by the capitalisation in full or in part of
(a) Indian made plant, machinery, equipment and components supplied to the
foreign concern;
(b) the proceeds of goods exported by the Indian party to the foreign concern;
(c) fees, royalties, commissions or other entitlements from the foreign concern
for the supply of technical know-how, consultancy, managerial or other services.
244
Within the overall limit ofUS $4 million the Indian party, may
opt for:
(1) Cash remittance;
(2) capitalisation of export proceeds towards equity; or
(3) giving loans or corporate guarantees to/on behalf of Indian JVs/WOSs.
For loans/Guarantees from banks/financial institutions from India
to/on behalf of Indian JVs/WOSs abroad requisite clearances from commercial
banking angle for loans and guarantees as required would need to be taken as
normally prescribed.
Where R.B.I. in its judgment, feels that a proposal under
automatic route is predominantly real estate-oriented, such proposals shall be
remitted to the High Level Committee.
Time Limit. All implications under the automatic route will be eligible for
approval within 21 days of receipt of complete application by RBI, which shall
include abroad feasibility study, a statement of credit-worthiness from a bank,
and statement from a Chartered Accountant verifying the ratios, projections
made, etc.
In case the application is for takeover of participation in an
existing unit, the basis of share valuation shall be certified by a Chartered
Accountant.
245
This facility of automatic approval will be available to the Indian
party in respect of the same JV/WOs only once in a block of three financial
years including the financial year in which the investment is made. However,
within the overall limit of US $4 million the Indian party may be permitted to
invest equity/provide guarantee etc. on the automatic route on more than one
occasion. However, non-automatic route may be availed of without these
restrictions.
Special Committee
All applications involving investment beyond US $4 million but
not exceeding US $15 million or those not qualifying for fast track clearance on
the basis of the applicable criteria outlined above, and all applications where
RBI feels that the proposal imder automatic route is predominantly real estate-
oriented, will be processed in the RBI through a Special Committee appointed
by RBI in consultation'with Government and chaired by the Commerce
Secretary with the Deputy Governor, R.B.I., as the Alternate Chairman. The
Committee shall have as members representative of the Ministry of Commerce,
Ministry of Finance, Ministry of External Affairs and the RBI. The Committee
shall co-opt as members other Secretaries/Institutions dealing with the Sector to
which the case before the Committee relates.
246
A recommendation will be made within 60 days of receipt of the
complete application and RBI will grant of refuse permission on the basis of the
recommendations. Such proposals should be accompanied by a technical
appraisal by any of the designated agencies (currently they are IDBI, ICICI,
Exim Bank and SBI) to be arranged for by the applicant. The Committee will,
inter alia, review the criteria for and progress of all overseas investments under
these guidelines and evolve its own procedures for consultations and approvals.
Criteria
In considering an application under category "B", the Committee
shall, inter alia, have due regard to the following:
(a) the financial position, standing and business track record of the Indian and
foreign parties.
(b) experience and track record of the Indian party in exports and its external
orientation.
(c) quantum of the proposed investment and the size of the overseas venture in
the context of the resources, net worth and scale of operations of the Indian
party; and
(d) repatriation by way of dividends, fees, royalties, commissions or other
entitlements from the foreign concerns for supply of technical know-how,
247
consultancy, managerial or other services in five years w.e.f. the date of
approval of investments.
(e) benefits to the country in terms of foreign exchange earnings, two way trade
generation, technology transfer, access to raw materials, intermediates or final
products not available in lndia.
(f) prima facie viability of the proposed investment.
Indian financial and banking institutions considering to support
the venture will examine independently the commercial viability of the proposal.
Post Approval Changes
In the case of a joint venture in which the Indian party has a
minority equity shareholding, the Indian party shall report to the Ministry of
Commerce and the Reserve Bank of India the details of following decisions
taken by the joint venture within 30 days of the approval of these decisions by
the shareholders/promoters/Directors of the joint venture in terms of the local
laws of the host country:
(i) undertake any activity different from the activity originally approved by the
R.B.I/ Government of India for the direct investment;
(ii) participate in the equity capital of another concern;
(iii) promote a subsidiary or a wholly owned subsidiary as a second generation
foreign concern;
248
(iv) after its share capital structure, authorised or issued, or its shareholding
pattern.
(i) undertake any activity different from the activity originally approved for the
direct investment;
(ii) participation in the equity capital of another concern;
(iii) promote a subsidiary or a wholly owned subsidiary as a second generation
concern;
(iv) after its share capital structure, authorised or issued, or its shareholding
pattern.
Provided, the following conditions are fulfilled;
(a) the Indian party has repatriated all entitlements due to it from the foreign
concern, including dividends, fees and royalties and this is duly certified by a
Chartered Accountant;
(b) the Indian party has no overdues older than 180 days from the foreign
concern in respect of its exports to the latter;
(c) the Indian party does not seek any cash remittance from India; and
(d) the percentage of equity shareholding of the Indian party in the first
generation joint venture or wholly owned subsidiary is not reduced, unless it is
pursued to the laws of the host country.
The Indian party shall report to Ministry of Commerce and the
Reserve Bank of India the details of the decisions taken by the joint venture or
249
wholly owned subsidiary within 30 days of the approval of those decisions by
the shareholders/promoters/ Directors in terms of the local laws of the host
country, together with a statement on the fulfilment of the conditions mentioned
above.
In the case of subscription by an Indian party to its entitlement of
equity shares issued by a joint venture on Rights basis, or in the case of
subscription by an Indian party to the issue of additional share capital by a joint
venture or a wholly owned. Subsidiary, prior approval of the R.B.I shall be
taken for such subscription.
Large Investments
Investment proposals in excess of US $ 15.00 million will be
considered if the required resources beyond US $15.00 million are raised
through the GDR route. Upto 50% of resources raised may be invested as equity
in overseas joint ventures subject to specific approvals of the Government.
Applications for investments beyond US $ 15.00 million would be received in
the RBI and transmitted to Ministry of Finance for examination with the
recommendation of the Special Committee. Each case would, with due regard to
the criteria outlined above, be subject to rigorous scrutiny to determine its
overall benefit. Investments beyond US $ 15.00 million without GDR resources
will be considered only in very exceptional circumstances where a company has
250
a strong track record of exports. All proposals under this category should be
accompanied by the documentation as detailed above.
Foreign Exchange
(i) Indian parties intending to conduct preliminary study with regard to
feasibility, viability, assessment of fair price of the assets of the
existing/proposed overseas concern, identification of foreign collaborators, etc.
before deciding to set up/acquire an overseas concern/bid for the same, may
approach the concerned Regional Office of Reserve Bank for prior approval for
availing the services of overseas consultants/merchant bankers involving
remittance towards payment of fees, incidental charges, etc.
(ii) For release of exchange of meeting preliminary/pre-operative expenses in
connection with joint venture/subsidiary abroad approved by Government of
India/Reserve Bank of India, applications should be made to the concerned
Regional Office of Reserve Bank, Reserve Bank will consider releasing
exchange keeping in view, inter alia, the nature of the proj ect, total proj ect
cost, need for meeting such expenses from India, etc. subj ect to such conditions
as deemed necessary including repatriation of amounts so released. Remittance
towards recurring expenses for the upkeep of the joint venture/ subsidiary
abroad will, however, not be permitted.
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The foreign exchange needed for overseas investment may be
drawn after the approval is granted, either from an authorised dealer or by
utilising the balance available in the EEFC account of the Indian party or by any
other means specified in the letter of approval.
Acquisition of Shares and issue of holding licence
Where equity contribution are made by way of cash remittance or
capitalisation of royalty, technical know-how fees, etc., Indian promoter
companies are required to receive share certificates of equivalent value from the
overseas concern within three months from the date of effecting such cash
remittance or Mthe date on which the royalty, fees, etc. become due for
payment. As soon as shares are acquired from the overseas concern, Indian
companies should apply in form FAD 2 to the concerned office of Reserve bank
for obtaining necessary licence to hold such foreign security as required under
Section 19(i)(e) of FERA,1973
Acceptance of Directorship of Overseas Companies and Acquisition of
Qualification Shares
Persons resident in India are free to accept appointments as
directors on the board of the overseas companies. However, they will require
permission from Reserve Bank for any remittance toward acquisition of
252
qualification shares, if any, of the overseas companies for which application in
form A2 together with an offer letter of the overseas company should be made to
the concerned Regional Office of Reserve Bank through an authorised dealer. In
receipt of shares from the foreign concern, an application in form FAD 2 should
be made to the concerned office of the Reserve Bank for issue of necessary
holding licence. Such directors are also required to repatriate to India promptly,
remuneration, if any, received by way of sitting fees, etc. through nominal
banking channels.
Export of Goods
Both under Category "A" and Category "B" above, secondhand
or reconditioned indigenous machinery may be supplied by the Indian party
towards its contribution to the direct investment in the foreign concern.
Agency Commission
No agency commission shall be payable to ajointventure/wholly
owned subsidiary against the exports made by the Indian party towards its equity
investment. Similarly, no agency commission shall be payable to a trading joint
venture/wholly owned subsidiary if the Indian party makes an outright sale to it.
Remittance towards equity, loans and invoked guarantees
253
i) Where the Indian promoter companies have been permitted to make equity
contribution by way of cash remittance, they should apply for release of foreign
exchange to the concerned Regional Office of Reserve Bank in form A2, in
duplicate, through their authorised dealer. In case theremittance is to be effected
out of the funds held in their EEFC account, prior permission from Reserve
Bank will, however, not be necessary. In both the cases, after affecting the
remittance, the particulars thereof, along with the certificate of the authorised
dealer concerned, should be reported by the Indian company to the concerned
Regional Office of Reserve Bank positively within 15 days from the date of
such remittance.
(ii) In case of remittance of loan amount, if specifically approved by Reserve
Bank, the aforesaid procedure should be followed and particulars of remittance
should be reported to the concerned Regional Office of Reserve Bank within 15
days from the date of such remittance. Where issue of guarantee by the Indian
company has been specifically approved by Reserve Bank, a certified copy of
such guarantee should be submitted to the concerned Regional Office of Reserve
Bank within 15 days from the date of issue of such guarantee to/on behalf of the
overseas concern. If and when such guarantee is invoked, the Indian company
should approach the concerned Regional Office of Reserve Bank through their
authorised dealer for effecting remittance towards the invoked guarantee. After
effecting the remittance, the particulars thereof should be reported to Reserve
254
Bank as in the case of remittances made for .equity and for loan. (Source:
Exports, What, Where, How - Paras Ram).
3.7
Rupee Convertibility
Rupee convertibility is an important reform in foreign exchange
transactions after liberalization. Foreign currency earners (exporters) can
convert their foreign currency into Indian rupee with valid documents. They can
utilize the services of banks and other authorized money changers for
conversion. Similarly foreign currency spenders (importers) can convert their
Indian rupee in to foreign currency with valid documents for paying imports.
Before introducing rupee convertibility policy, foreign currency earners and
foreign currency spenders approached the Reserve Bank of India for currency
conversion and it was made based on the directions and policies of the Reserve
Bank of India. Exchange rate was decided by the Reserve Bank of India.
Foreign currency earners and spenders were not allowed to open bank accounts
in foreign currency.
There are two accounts in Balance of Payments. They are (i)
current account and (ii) capital accounts. Rupee convertibility is fully exercised
in current account. At present convertibility is not applied in capital account
Current account is otherwise called trade account. Current
account deals with transactions related to merchandise export, merchandise
255
import, invisible export and invisible import and private remittances. Foreign
exchange involved in these transactions is freely convertible in to Indian rupee
at the prevailing exchange rate. It is known as trade account convertibility or
current account convertibility.
Those who want to visit abroad as tourist can get foreign
currency with authorized dealers by submitting valid documents. Similarly those
who go abroad for higher studies and medical treatment can get foreign
currency by submitting required documents.
Foreign currency earners can open foreign currency account in
banks. The account is called Exchange Earners Foreign Currency Account.
They can draw foreign currency from this account to meet their foreign currency
requirements.
Rupee Convertibility is not in practice in Capital Account of
Balance of Payments. Foreign exchange involved in capital account is not freely
convertible. The Government of India has formed a committee under the
chairmanship of Mr. S.S.Tarapore, Deputy Governor, Reserve Bank of India to
suggest policy measures for capital account convertibility in India.
Capital Account Convertibility
It implies the freedom to convert domestic financial assets into
overseas financial assets at market determined rates.
256
It can also imply conversion of overseas financial assets into
domestic financial assets. Freedom for firms and residents to freely buy into
overseas assets such as equity, bonds, property and acquire ownership of
overseas firms besides free repatriation of proceeds by foreign investors.
Once a country eases capital controls, typically there is a surge of
capital flows. For countries which face constraints on savings and capital can
utilize such flows to finance their investment, which in turn create economic
growth. Local residents will be in a position to diversity their portfolio of assets,
which helps them insulate themselves better from the consequences of any
shocks in the domestic market. For global investors, capital account
convertibility helps them to seek higher returns by sharing of risks. It offers
countries better access to global markets besides resulting in the emergence of
deeper and more liquid markets. It is stated to bring it greater discipline on the
part of governments in terms of reducing excess borrowings and rendering fiscal
discipline.
Prospects of outflow of what is termed as speculative short-term
flows. Denomination of a substantial part of local assets in foreign currencies
poses the threat of outward flows and higher interest rates which could
destabilize economies. The volatility in exchange and interest rates in the wake
of capital flows can lead to unsound funding and large unhedged foreign
liabilities. This is especially so for economies which go in for a free float
257
without following prudent macro economic policies, and ensuring financial
reforms.
Capital account convertibility is in vogue in terms of freedom to
take out proceeds relating to foreign direct investment, portfolio investment for
overseas investors and non-resident Indians besides lee-way for forms to invest
abroad in joint ventures or acquisition of assets and for residents and mutual
funds to invest abroad in stocks and bonds with some restrictions.
S.S. Tarapore Report on Capital Account Convertibility (Report was released on
01.09.2006)
Important highlights
Ban on participatory notes
Participatory notes are instruments that overseas entities, which are
not registered with SEBI, buy from foreign security houses to invest in India.
NRI will stop enjoying tax exemptions on the interest on bank deposits.
RBI has allowed relaxations in foreign exchange transactions,
Basic travel quota is liberalized. International credit cards were allowed to fund
ed;ucation and medical treatment were raised.
Phase I 2006-07 - for individuals- Indians can freely remit $50,000 in the first
phase and $2,00,000 in the final phase.
Mutual funds can invest $ 3 billion in phase I and $ 5 billion in phase II in
overseas markets.
258
Portfolio Management Schemes (PMS) to be allowed to invest overseas. Indian
can have foreign currency accounts in overseas banks. Foreign individuals can
invest in stocks through PMS and Mutual Funds.
PhaseII 2007-09
Companies can raise External Commercial Borrowings up to $ 1
billion in phase III without permission.
No ceiling on long-term or rupee denominated External Commercial
Borrowings.
Companies can invest up to four times their capital in overseas subsidiaries/joint
ventures.
Banks can eventually raise up to 100% of their capital through overseas
borrowing in Phase III
Foreign companies can raise rupee loans and bonds in India. Mauritius will no
longer be a tax haven.
3.8
SELF-ASSESSMENT QUESTIONS
1) What are the objectives of Export ? Import Policy?
2) What do you understand by Deemed Exports?
3) Write a short note on Project and Consultancy Exports`.
4) Elaborately Explain the Direction of India`s Foreign Trade
259
5) Explain the composition of India`s Foreign Trade.
6) What are the objectives of Export Promotion Councils?
7) What are commodity Boards? Explain their functions.
8) What is SEZ? Explain its salient features.
9) Discuss the salient features of the recent foreign trade policy.
10) Write a short note on Rupee Convertibility`.
3.9 REFERENCES
1. Jacob Cherian and B.Patab, Export Marketing`, Himalaya Publishing
House, Bombay.
2. R.K.Jain`s Customs Law Manual 2001-02, Centax Publications Private Ltd.,
New Delhi.
3. R.L.Varshney and S.Bhashyam, International Financial Management ? An
Indian Perspective`, Sultan Chand and Sons, New Delhi.
4. V.A.Avadhani, International Finance`, Himalaya Publishing House,
Bombay.
5. Gupta, R.K. Anti-dumping and Countervailing Measures, Sage Publications,
New Delhi.
6. Nabhi`s Exporter`s Manual and Documentation, Nabhi Publications, New
Delhi.
7. Sodersten, B.O., International Economics, MacMillan, London.
260
8. Varsheny, R.L. and B. Bhattacharya, International Marketing Management,
Sultan Chand & Sons, New Delhi.
9. Verma, M.L., International Trade, Commonwealth Publishers, Delhi.
261
UNIT ? 1V:
Instruments of Export Promotion: Export assistance and promotion measures;
EPCG scheme; Import facilities; Duty exemption schemes; Duty drawback; Tax
concessions; Marketing assistance; Role of export houses, trading houses and
state trading organisations; EPZs and SEZs
Lesson 1:
Instruments of Export Promotion
Objectives:
After studying this lesson you should be able:
To understand the export import policy
To understand the export assistance provided by the government
To learn about infrastructural and promotion measures
To understand incentives provide for EDI applications
Structure
1.1 Introduction
1.2 Instruments of export promotion
1.3 Export promotion measures
1.4 Infrastructure initiatives
1.5 Market related initiatives
1.6 Trade Facilitation through EDI Initiatives
1.7 Trade Related Initiatives
1.8 Summary
1.9 Glossary
1.10 Self Assessment Questions
1.11 Further Readings
1.1 Introduction
262
Trade is not an end in itself, but a means to economic growth and national
development. The primary purpose is not the mere earning of foreign exchange,
but the stimulation of greater economic activity. The Foreign Trade Policy
2004-09 is rooted in this belief and built around two major objectives. These
are:
(i) To double our percentage share of global merchandise trade within the
next five years; and
(ii) To act as an effective instrument of economic growth by giving a thrust
to employment generation.
The new Policy envisages merchant exporters and manufacturer exporters,
business and industry as partners of Government in the achievement of its stated
objectives and goals. Prolonged and unnecessary litigation vitiates the premise
of partnership. In order to obviate the need for litigation and nurture a
constructive and conducive atmosphere, a suitable Grievance Redressal
Mechanism will be established which, it is hoped, would substantially reduce
litigation and further a relationship of partnership.
1.2 Instruments of export promotion
The initiatives taken by government of India for strengthening the exports are
multifaced. It offers various incentives and facilities to the exporters to help
them improve their competitiveness in the foreign markets. These schemes can
be named as instruments of export promotion are given below.
1. Export assistance and promotional measures
2. Import facilities under EPCG scheme Duty exemption schemes
3. Fiscal incentives like Duty drawback and Tax concessions
4. Marketing assistance under MDA scheme
5. Recognition of Export houses, Trading houses
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6. Support provided by State Trading Organisations
7. Establishment of EPZs and SEZs
1.3 Export assistance and promotional measures
Export assistance is provide from the entry level organisations to large business
houses through different organisations such as Export promotion councils,
commodity boards etc.. Exports and imports are free unless regulated. Generally
there are various bottlenecks that are faced by exporters in actual trade. The
following steps were taken in the latest policy to enhancement of export trade.
Exports and Imports free unless regulated. Exports and Imports shall be
free, except in cases where they regulated by the provisions of this Policy
or any other law for the time being in force. The item wise export and
import policy shall be, as specified in ITC(HS) published and notified by
Director General of Foreign Trade, as amended from time to time.
1.3.1 Export Promotion Councils/ Commodity Boards
The basic objective of Export Promotion Councils is to promote and develop the
exports of the country. Each Council is responsible for the promotion of a
particular group of products, projects and services.
1.3.2 Registration-cum-Membership Certificate (RCMC)
Any person, applying for
(i) a license/ certificate/ permission to import/ export, [except items listed as
restricted items in Import Tariff Code (ITC)] or
(ii) any other benefit or concession under this policy
shall be required to furnish Registration-cum-Membership Certificate (RCMC)
granted by the competent authority unless specifically exempted under the
Policy.
264
An exporter desiring to obtain a Registration-cum-Membership Certificate
(RCMC) shall declare his main line of business in the application, which shall
be made to the Export Promotion Council (EPC) relating to that line of business.
However, a status holder has the option to obtain RCMC from Federation of
Indian Exporters Organization (FIEO).
Example: Exporters of Drugs & Pharmaceuticals shall obtain RCMC from
Pharmexcil only. Further, exporters of minor forest produce and their value
added products shall obtain RCMC from Shellac Export Promotion Council.
The service exporters (except software service exporters) shall be required to
obtain RCMC from FIEO.
In addition, an exporter has the option to obtain an RCMC from FIEO or any
other relevant EPC if the products exported by him relate to those EPC`s.
1.3.2.1 Validity Period of RCMC
The RCMC shall be deemed to be valid from 1st April of the licensing year in
which it was issued and shall be valid for five years ending 31st March of the
licensing year, unless otherwise specified.
1.3.2.2 Directives of DGFT
The Director General of Foreign Trade may direct any registering authority to
register or de-register an exporter or otherwise issue such other directions to
them consistent with and in order to implement the provisions of the Act, the
Rules and Orders made there under, the Policy or this Handbook.
1.4 Infrastructure initiatives
265
1.4.1 Assistance to States for Infrastructure Development of Exports
(ASIDE)
The State Governments shall be encouraged to participate in promoting exports
from their respective States. For this purpose, Department of Commerce has
formulated a scheme called ASIDE. Suitable provision has been made in the
Annual Plan of the Department of Commerce for allocation of funds to the
States on the twin criteria of gross exports and the rate of growth of exports.
The States shall utilise this amount for developing infrastructure such as roads,
connecting production centers with the ports, setting up of Inland Container
Depots and Container Freight Stations, creation of new State level export
promotion industrial parks/zones, augmenting common facilities in the existing
zones, equity participation in infrastructure projects, development of minor ports
and jetties, assistance in setting up of common effluent treatment facilities,
stabilizing power supply and any other activity as may be notified by
Department of Commerce from time to time.
1.4.2 Identifying Towns of Export Excellence
A number of towns in specific geographical locations have emerged as dynamic
industrial clusters contributing handsomely to India`s exports. It is necessary to
grant recognition to these industrial clusters with a view to maximizing their
potential and enabling them to move higher in the value chain and tap new
markets.
Selected towns producing goods of Rs. 1000 crore or more will be notified as
Towns of Exports Excellence on the basis of potential for growth in exports.
However for the Towns of Export Excellence in the Handloom, Handicraft,
Agriculture and Fisheries sector, the threshold limit would be Rs 250 crores.
266
Common service providers in these areas shall be entitled for the facility of the
EPCG scheme. The recognized associations of units will be able to access the
funds under the Market Access Initiative scheme for creating focused
technological services. Further such areas will receive priority for assistance for
rectifying identified critical infrastructure gaps from the ASIDE scheme.
1.5 Market Related Initiatives:
1.5.1 Market Access Initiative (MAI)
The Market Access Initiative (MAI) scheme is intended to provide financial
assistance for medium term export promotion efforts with a sharp focus on a
country and product.
The financial assistance is available for Export Promotion Councils, Industry
and Trade Associations, Agencies of State Governments, Indian Commercial
Missions abroad and other eligible entities as may be notified from time to time.
A whole range of activities can be funded under the MAI scheme. These include
market studies, setting up of showroom/ warehouse, sales promotion campaigns,
international departmental stores, publicity campaigns, participation in
international trade fairs, brand promotion, registration charges for
pharmaceuticals and testing charges for engineering products etc. Each of these
export promotion activities can receive financial assistance from the
Government ranging from 25% to 100% of the total cost depending upon the
activity and the implementing agency.
1.5.2 Marketing Development Assistance (MDA)
The Marketing Development Assistance (MDA) Scheme is intended to provide
financial assistance for a range of export promotion activities implemented by
export promotion councils, industry and trade associations on a regular basis
267
every year. As per the revised MDA guidelines, assistance under MDA is
available for exporters with annual export turnover upto Rs 10 crores.
These include participation in Trade Fairs and Buyer Seller meets abroad or in
India, export promotion seminars etc. Further, assistance for participation in
Trade Fairs abroad and travel grant is available to such exporters if they travel to
countries in one of the four Focus Areas, such as, Latin America, Africa, CIS
Region, ASEAN countries, Australia and New Zealand. For participation in
trade fairs etc., in other areas financial assistance without travel grant is
available.
1.5.3 Focus Market Scheme And Focus Product Scheme
Under the above schemes the exporter was allowed for claiming duty and shall
submit the application within a period of six months from the end of the period
of the application or within a period of six months ofthe date of realization of
the last export covered by the said application, which ever is later.
1.5.4 Special Focus Initiatives
With a view to doubling our percentage share of global trade within 5 years and
expanding employment opportunities, especially in semi urban and rural areas,
certain special focus initiatives have been identified for the agriculture,
handlooms, handicraft, gems & jewellery, leather and Marine sectors.
Government of India making concerted efforts to promote exports in these
sectors by specific sectoral strategies that shall be notified from time to time.
1.5.5 Vishesh Krishi and Gram Udyog Yojana (Special Agriculture and
Village Industry Scheme)
268
The objective of Vishesh Krishi and Gram Udyog Yojana (Erstwhile Vishesh
Krishi Upaj Yojana) is to promote export of Fruits, Vegetables, Flowers, Minor
Forest produce, Dairy, Poultry and their value added products, and Gram Udyog
products by incentivising exporters of such products.
Exports of Fruits, Vegetables, Flowers, Minor Forest Produce, Dairy, Poultry
and their value added products shall be entitled for duty credit scrip equivalent
to 5% of the FOB value of exports. Gram Udyog products as listed in Appendix
37A of the Handbook of Procedures (Vol. I) shall be entitled for duty credit
scrip equivalent to 5% of the FOB value of exports in respect of the exports
made on or after 1st April 2006. The scrip and the items imported against it
shall be freely transferable.
Following exports shall not be taken into account for duty credit entitlement
under the scheme:
(a) Export of imported goods covered under para 2.35 of the Foreign Trade
Policy or exports made through transshipment.
(b) Deemed Exports.
(c) Exports made by SEZs units and EOUs units.
The Duty Credit may be used for import of inputs or goods, which are otherwise
freely importable under ITC (HS) Classifications of Export and Import Items,
Imports from a port other than the port of export shall be allowed under TRA
facility as per the terms and conditions of the notification issued by Department
of Revenue. Additional customs duty/excise duty paid in cash or through debit
under Vishesh Krishi and Gram Udyog Yojana shall be adjusted as CENVAT
Credit or Duty Drawback as per rules framed by the Department of Revenue.
269
1.5.6 Brand Promotion and Quality
The Central Government aims to encourage manufacturers and exporters to
attain internationally accepted standards of quality for their products. The
Central Government will extend support and assistance to Trade and Industry to
launch a nationwide programme on quality awareness and to promote the
concept of total quality management.
1.6 Trade Facilitation through EDI Initiatives
It is endeavor of the Government to work towards greater simplification,
standardization and harmonization of trade documents using international best
practices. As a step in this direction DGFT shall move towards an automated
environment for electronic filing, retrieval and authentication of documents
based on agreed protocols and message exchange with other community partners
including Customs and Banks.
1.6.1 DGCI&S Commercial Trade Data
To enable the users to make commercial decisions in a more professional
manner, DGCI&S trade data shall be made available with a minimum time lag
in a query based structured format on a commercial criteria.
1.6.2 Fiscal Incentives to promote EDI Initiatives adoption
With a view to promote the use of Information Technology, DGFT will provide
fiscal incentives to the user community. The following deductions in
Application Fee would be admissible for applications signed digitally or/ and
where application fee is paid electronically through EFT (electronic fund
transfer).
Sr.
Mode of Application
Fee Deduction (as a % of
No
normal applicationfee)
270
1
Digitally signed
25%
2
Application fee payment vide EFT
25%
3
Both digitally signed as well as use of 50%
EFT for payment of application fee
The facility will reduce unnecessary physical interface with DGFT. It will
enable faster processing, speedier communication of deficiencies, if any, and on-
line availability of application processing status.
1.7 Trade Related Initiatives
1.7.1 Export Promotion Council for Services
Service exporters are required to register themselves with the Federation of
Indian Exporters Organisation. However, software exporters shall register
themselves with Electronic and Software Export Promotion Council. In order to
give proper direction, guidance and encouragement to the Services Sector, an
exclusive Export Promotion Council for Services shall be set up.
The Services Export Promotion Council shall:
(i)
Map opportunities for key services in key markets and develop strategic
market access programmes for each component of the matrix.
(ii)
Co-ordinate with sectoral players in undertaking intensive brand building
and marketing programmes in target markets.
(iii)
Make necessary interventions with regard to policies, procedures and
bilateral/ multilateral issues, in co-ordination with recognised nodal
bodies of the services industry.
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1.7.2 Recognition of Star Export House
Merchant as well as Manufacturer Exporters, Service Providers, Export Oriented
Units (EOUs) and Units located in Special Economic Zones (SEZs), Agri Export
Zone (AEZ`s), Electronic Hardware Technology Parks (EHTPs), Software
Technology Parks (STPs) and Bio Technology Parks (BTPs) shall be eligible for
applying for status as Star Export Houses. Plenty of advantages were provided
to these houses. This topic will be discussed in the following lesson.
1.7.3 Test Houses
The Central Government will assist in the modernisation and upgradation of test
houses and laboratories in order to bring them at par with international
standards.
1.7.4 Grievance Redressal DGFT As A Facilitator Of Exports/ Imports
DGFT has a commitment to function as a facilitator of exports and imports. Our
focus is on good governance, which depends on clean, transparent and
accountable delivery systems.
1.7.4.1 Grievance Redressal Mechanism
In order to facilitate speedy redressal of grievances of trade and industry, a new
grievance redressal mechanism has been put in place by a Government
resolution. The Government is committed to resolving all outstanding problems
and disputes pertaining to the past policy periods through the Grievance
Redressal Committee for condoning delays, regularizing breaches by exporters
in bonafide cases, resolving disputes over entitlements, granting extensions for
utilization of licences etc.
1.7.5 Meeting Legal expenses for Trade related matters
272
Financial assistance would be provided to deserving exporters on the
recommendation of Export Promotion Councils for meeting the cost of legal
expenses relating to trade related matters.
1.8 Summary
Foreign trade policy aims at providing wider support to the industry in manufacture and service sector. Registration-
cum-Membership Certificate (RCMC) will be issued by Export promotion councils (EPCs) or by Federation of Indian
Exporters Organization (FIEO). Benefits provided by government will be availed through EPCs. Infrastructural support
will be provided under ASIDE and identifying town with large turnovers. Exports are encouraged under special schemes
like Focus Market Scheme, Focus Product. Market development assistance will be provided for various activities under
taken by EPCs and others. Trade is facilitated through EDI (electronic data interchange) and fiscal incentives are
provided for those who are filing their applications through EDI. Grievance system was simplified and focussed to settle
past policy linked grievances
1.9 Glossary:
Registration-cum-Membership Certificate (RCMC) : The certificate required
for availing the incentives provided by the government through EPC and others.
FIEO : Federation of Indian Exporters Organization
DGFT : Director General of Foreign Trade
Marketing Development Assistance (MDA): Assistance provided for
undertaking study tour, Participation in Trade Fairs and Buyer Seller meets
abroad or in India, export promotion seminars etc.
EDI : Electronic Data Interchange.
1.10 Self Assessment Questions
1. Explain briefly the focus of the foreign trade policy 2004-2009.
2. Explain the importance of RCMC certificate.
3. List market related initiatives taken for improvement of exports..
273
4. What are the major advantages of EDI initiatives?
5. Explain various trade related initiatives taken for export promotion.
1.8. Further Readings:
1 Gupta, R.K.: Anti-dumping and Countervailing Measures, Sage
Publications, New Delhi.
2 Nabhi`s Exporter`s Manual and Documentation, Nabhi Publication, New
Delhi.
3 Sodersten, B.O: International Economics, MacMillan, London.
4 Varsheny R.L. and B. Bhattacharya: International Marketing Management,
Sultan Chand & Sons, New Delhi.
5 Verma, M.L: International Trade, Commonwealth Publishers, Delhi.
274
Lesson 2:
Import Schemes and Incentives
Objectives:
After studying this lesson you should be able:
To understand the purpose of EPCG scheme
To learn import facilities under the Duty exemption/remission schemes
To know the procedure in Duty drawback scheme
To learn about Tax concessions provided for exporters
Structure
2.1 Export Promotion Capital Goods Scheme
2.2 General view of Duty Exemption/Remission Schemes
2.3 Advance Authorisation Scheme
2.4 Duty Free Import Authorisation (DFIA)
2.5 Duty Free Replenishment Certificate (DFRC)
2.6 Duty Entitlement Passbook (DEPB) Scheme
2.7 Duty Draw Back Scheme
2.8 Tax Concessions
2.9 Summary
2.10 Glossary
2.11 Self Assessment Questions
2.12 Further Readings
Foreign trade policy facilitates import of goods under the following schemes.
2.1 Export Promotion Capital Goods Scheme (EPCG):
An importer of capital goods has to pay the applicable import duty. If exporter
imports capital goods against payment of import duty, then the cost of capital
goods will certainly increase by the amount of import duty and it would result in
275
the increase in the cost of production. As a consequence, the cost
competitiveness of the export products would be adversely affected. Though it
is the primary responsibility of the exporter to ensure cost effectiveness yet the
Government of India in the Export-Import Policy 1997-2002 has introduced
Export Promotion Capital Goods Scheme to promote cost competitiveness of
India`s exports.
The term capital goods` includes computer software systems and jigs, dies
fixtures, moulds and spares, Second hand capital goods without any restriction
on age may also be imported under the EPCG scheme. However, import of
motor cars, sports utility vehicles/all purpose vehicles shall be allowed only to
hotels, travel agents, tour operators or tour transport operators and companies
owning/operating golf resorts are allowed subjected to fullfilment of export
obligation. Import of capital goods shall be subject to Actual User condition
till the export obligation is completed
2.1.1 Main Features of the EPCG Scheme
The main features of the EPCG scheme are as follows:
a. Eligibility for Import
Under this scheme, manufacturer exporters, merchant exporters tied to
supporting manufacturer(s) and service providers are eligible to import capital
goods. The capital goods imported by the licence holder shall be installed at the
factory of the licence holder or the supporting manufacturer(s). The import of
capital goods is allowed subject to the actual user condition only till the export
obligation stipulated under this scheme is completed.
b. Adjustment in the Value of EPCG Licence
The value of an EPCG licence can be adjusted plus/minus 10% of the CIF
value of the licence.
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c. Amount of Export Obligation
The scheme allows import of capital goods for pre production, production
and post production (including CKD/SKD thereof as well as computer
software systems) at 5% Customs duty subject to an export obligation.
equivalent to 8 times of duty saved amount for the CIF value saved on
capital goods imported under EPCG scheme to be fulfilled over a period of 8
years and for agro units 6 times the duty saved (on capital goods imported
under the Scheme) over a period of 12 years from the date of issue of
Authorisation.
d. Fulfillment Of Export Obligation
The Authorisation holder under the EPCG scheme shall fulfill the export
obligation over the specified period in the following proportions:
Period from the date of issue of Minimum export obligation
Authorisation
to be fulfilled
Block of 1st to 6th year
50%
Block of 7th and 8th year
50%
If the value of duty saved is Rs.100 crore or more
Block of 1st to 10th year
50%
Block of 11th and 12th year
50%
e. Extension of period
The concerned Regional authority, may consider one or more request for grant
of extension in export obligation period for a period of 2 years, on payment of a
composition fee of 2% of the total duty saved under the Authorisation or an
enhancement in export obligation imposed to the extent of 10% of the total
export obligation imposed under the Authorisation, as the case may be, at the
choice of the exporter, for each year of extension sought.
2.1.2 Application Form
An application for the grant of an Authorisation may be made to the Regional
277
authority concerned in the form given in Aayaat Niryaat Form` along with
documents prescribed therein.
The applicant may apply for EPCG Authorisation wherein duty saved amount is
Rs. 50 crores, to the Regional Authority along with a certificate from the
independent chartered engineer on the proforma annexed to Aayaat Niryaat
Form` certifying the end use of capital goods sought for import for its use at pre
production, production or post production stage for the product undertaken for
export obligation.
For the cases wherein duty saved amount is above Rs. 50 crores, the applicant
may apply to DGFT Headquarters directly with a copy endorsed to the
concerned Regional Authority. In such cases, based on the recommendations of
Headquarters EPCG Committee/ approval of competent authority the concerned
Regional Authorities will issue the EPCG Authorisation accordingly.
2. 2 General view of Duty Exemption/Remission Schemes
The Export-Import Policy has introduced Duty Exemption / Remission
Scheme, in addition to the EPCG scheme, to promote the competitiveness of
India`s exports. The basic aim of the Duty Exemption scheme is to enable the
exporters to import Duty Free` inputs required for the manufacture of products
for export.
Duty Exemption Scheme consists of
(a)
Advance Authorisation Scheme and
(b)
Duty Free Import Authorisation Scheme (DFIA).
A Duty Remission Scheme enables post export replenishment/ remission of duty
278
on inputs used in the export product. Duty remission schemes consist of
(a) DFRC (Duty Free Replenishment Certificate),
(b) DEPB (Duty Entitlement Passbook Scheme) and
(c) DBK (Duty Drawback Scheme).
Goods exported under Advance Authorisation/DFIA / DFRC/ DEPB may be re-
imported in the same or substantially the/ same form subject to such conditions
as may be specified by the Department of Revenue from time to time.
2.2.1 Value Addition
The value addition for the purposes of the schemes listed above (Except for the
Gems and Jewellery) shall be: -
<<
V.A = ( A ? B ) / B * 100
V.A. Value Addition
A
FOB value of the export realised / FOR value of supply received.
B
CIF value of the imported inputs covered by the authorisation,
plus any other imported materials used on which the benefit of
duty drawback is being claimed.
2.2.2 Main Features of Duty Exemption Scheme
Under the Duty Exemption Scheme, an exporter is allowed to make duty free
import of inputs that are physically used in the export product at the pre-
shipment stage. The Handbook of Procedures (Volume II) gives details of the
inputs used in the export products defined as standard input-output norms
(SION). The quantity of inputs can be increased by the amount of normal
wastage in the course of production.
Duty Free` import of inputs implies that the import of inputs under this scheme
shall be allowed without payment of Basic Custom Duty, Surcharge, Additional
Customs Duty, Anti-Dumping Duty and Safeguard Duty, if any.
279
2.3 Advance Authorisation Scheme (Erstwhile Advance Licence Scheme)
Advance Authorisation can be issued either to a manufacturer exporter or
merchant exporter tied to supporting manufacturer(s):
a) For Physical exports b) For Intermediate supplies c) For Deemed exports.
In addition, fuel, oil, energy, catalysts etc. which are consumed/ utilised in the
course of their use to obtain the export product, may also be allowed under the
scheme. supply of stores on board of the foreign going vessel/aircraft subject to
the condition that there is specific SION in respect of the item(s) supplied.
2.3.1 Export Obligation Period and its Extension
The period of fulfillment of export obligation under an Advance Authorisation
shall commence from the date of issuance of authorisation. The export
obligation shall be fulfilled within a period of 24 months except in the case of
supplies to the projects/turnkey projects in India/abroad under deemed exports
category where the export obligation must be fulfilled during the contracted
duration of execution of the project/ turnkey project.
2.4 Duty Free Import Authorisation (DFIA)
A Duty Free Import Authorisation is issued to allow duty free import of inputs
which are used in the manufacture of the export product (making normal
allowance for wastage), and fuel, energy, catalyst etc. which are consumed or
utilised in the course of their use to obtain the export product. However, the
Director General of Foreign Trade, by means of Public Notice, may in public
interest, exclude any product(s) from the purview of this scheme. This scheme
came into force from 1st May, 2006.
280
2.4.1 Export Obligation period and its extension
The period of fulfillment of export obligation is 24 months. However, any
extension beyond 36 months from the date of issuance of the authorisation shall
not be allowed. Re-export of goods imported under DFIA Scheme Goods
imported against transferable DFIA, which are found defective or unfit for use,
may be re-exported, as per the guidelines issued by the Department of Revenue.
2.4.2 DFIA against Physical Exports
DFIA against physical exports can be issued under the following two conditions:
(a) against an export order and
(b) on the basis of annual requirement in respect of export product.
This licence can be issued in all cases irrespective of whether the
standard input-output norms have been determined or not. In cases
where input-output norms have not been fixed, the licence is issued on
the basis of adhoc quantities and the norms are finally fixed.
2.5 Duty Free Replenishment Certificate (DFRC)
Duty Free Replenishment Certificate is issued to a merchant-exporter or
manufacturer-exporter for the import of inputs used in the manufacture of goods
without payment of Basic Customs Duty, Surcharge and Special Additional
Duty. However, such inputs shall be subject to the payment of Additional
Customs Duty equal to the Excise Duty at the time of import. Duty Free
Replenishment Certificate shall be issued only in respect of export products
covered under the SIONs as notified by DGFT.
Duty Free Replenishment Certificate shall be issued for import of inputs, as per
SION, having same quality, technical characteristics and specifications as those
used in the end product and as indicated in the shipping bills. The validity of
such licences shall be 12 months. DFRC and or the material imported against it
281
shall be freely transferable.
DFRC shall be issued on minimum value addition of 25% except for items in
gems and jewellery sector for which higher value addition is prescribed under
Advance Authorisation Scheme shall be applicable.
The exporter shall be entitled for drawback benefits in respect of any of the duty
paid materials, whether imported or indigenous, used in the export product as
per the drawback rate fixed by Directorate of Drawback (Ministry of Finance).
The drawback shall however be restricted to the duty paid materials not covered
under SION. The export under deffered payment scheme to Russia is also
allowed for issuance of DFRC.
2.5.1 Application for DFRC
The application for the grant of DFRC should be submitted to the regional
licensing authority having jurisdiction over the firm in the prescribed form along
with the following documents.
1. bank draft for payment of application fee
2. Export promotion copy of the shipping bill
3. Bank certificate of export and realisation
4. A statement of export giving separately each shipping bill
number and date, FOB value in Indian rupees as per shipping bill
and the description of the result product.
The exporter can file the application within a period of 90 days from the date of
realisation of the export proceeds. The period of 90 days is increased to 180
days in case of shipments sent under irrevocable letter of credit.
2.6 Duty Entitlement Passbook (DEPB) Scheme
282
For exporters not desirous of going through the licensing route, an optional
facility is given under DEPB. The objective of Duty Entitlement Passbook
Scheme is to neutralise the incidence of Customs duty on the import content of
the export product. The neutralisation shall be provided by way of grant of duty
credit against the export product.
Under the Duty Entitlement Passbook Scheme (DEPB), an exporter may apply
for credit, as a specified percentage of FOB value of exports, made in freely
convertible currency or the payment made from the Foreign Currency Account
of the SEZ unit in case of supply by DTA to SEZ unit.
The credit shall be available against such export products and at such rates as
may be specified by the Director General of Foreign Trade by way of public
notice issued in this behalf, for import of raw materials, intermediates,
components, parts, packaging material etc.
The holder of Duty Entitlement Passbook Scheme (DEPB) shall have the option
to pay additional customs duty, if any, in cash as well. Under the scheme
Exporters are granted duty credits on the basis of pre notified entitlement rates
which will allow them to import input duty free. The exporter can export any
product under this scheme provided the same is covered by SION. Goods in the
negative list of exim policy cannot be exported under this scheme.
2.6.1 Application for the grant of Import Duty credit under DEPB
An application for grant of import duty credit under DEPB should be made
to the licencing authority concerned along with the following documents:
1. Demand draft for the amount prescribed application fee.
2. Export promotion Copy of the DEPB shipping bill
3. Bank Certificate of Exports and Realisation
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4. Self addressed Copy of valid RCMC
The application may file one or more applications subject to the condition that
each application contain not more than 25 shipping bills. All the shipping bills in
any one application must relate to exports made from one Custom House only.
The DEPB shall be issued with single port of registration, which will be port
from where the exports have been effected.
Monitoring of Export Obligation
The Regional Authority, with whom the undertaking is executed by the DFIA
holder, shall maintain a proper record in a master register indicating the starting
and closing dates of obligation period and other particulars to monitor the export
obligation. Within two months from the date of expiry of the period of
obligation, the certificate holder shall submit requisite evidence in discharge of
the export obligation in accordance with procedure laid down..
However, in respect of shipments where six months period (one year in case of
status certificate holder) for realisation of foreign exchange has not become due,
the Regional Authority shall not take action for non submission of bank
certificate of exports and realisation provided the other document(s)
substantiating fulfillment of Export Obligation have been furnished.
In case the Authorisation holder fails to complete the export obligation or fails
to submit the relevant information/ documents, the Regional Authority shall take
action by refusing further authorisations, enforce the condition of the
authorisation and undertaking and also initiate penal action as per law.
284
2.7 Duty Draw Back Scheme
It is an internationally accepted principle that goods exported out of a country
are relieved of the duties borne by them at various stages of their manufacture so
that they become competitive in the world markets.
As defined in the Drawback Rules (see under definition` later), drawback in
relation to any goods manufactured, or processed or on which any operation has
been carried out in India and exported, means the rebate of duty chargeable on
any imported materials or excisable materials used in the manufacture of such
goods in India. Hence, drawback is-
(i) a refund of excise or import (customs) duty paid on indigenous or imported
inputs (raw materials, components, parts, packing materials, etc) used in export
products.
(ii) a refund of duty of customs or excise paid on production inputs and not
refund of duty paid on finished products.
An exporter is entitled to claim the amount of duty draw back as soon as export
of goods takes place. Drawback under Section 19 bis of the Customs Act (No.9)
B.E. 2482 means the refund of import duty already paid on imported goods
which have undergone production, mixing, assembling, or packing and then
exported within one year from the date of importation. The importer may place a
bank guarantee or a guarantee issued by the Ministry of Finance in lieu of the
payment of import duty. The refund is administered after the exportation or
destruction of either the imported/substituted product or article that has been
manufactured from the imported/substituted product.
2.7.1 Criteria and Conditions for Drawback
285
The claim for drawback on the imports must not be prohibited by the
Ministerial Regulations;
The quantity of the imports used in producing, mixing, assembling, or
packing exports shall be in compliance with the criteria approved or
notified by Customs;
The imports are exported through a port or place of exit designated for a
drawback scheme;
The imports are exported within 1 year from the date of importation of
the goods used in producing, mixing, assembling the exports or packing
the exports into the country;
A claim for drawback must be made within 6 months from the date of
exportation of goods, unless the time limits for exportation are extended
as the reasons are deemed by Customs to be valid.
2.7.2 Procedure for Drawback
The importer submits a letter of intent for drawback under Section 19 bis
(Customs Form No. 29) to the Customs office at the port where the drawback
is to be taking place, together with 2 certified copies of the following
documents:
1. Value-added tax registration document;
2. Juristic person registration or commercial registration
documents;
3. A certification of the Ministry of Commerce indicating the
purpose of the authorized juristic person, and company`s
address; and
4. A valid factory operation permit.
2.7.3 Submission of Production Formula
Production formula means a document detailing quantity of raw materials
used for producing or manufacturing goods which are used in calculating raw
material stock account for drawback. To submit the production formula, the
following rules and conditions must be observed:
286
The production formula is to be used by entrepreneurs or
drawback claimers;
Prior to the exportation, the importer is required to submit, to the
Drawback Unit of a relevant Customs office, an application for
production formula (Customs Form No. 96) with the lists of raw
materials; lists of products or manufactured goods; production
process; the quantity of raw materials to be used, including wastes
(if any); samples of raw materials; samples of finished products;
In case where it is necessary to examine a production process at a
manufacture site, the importer must allow Customs officers to
visit the site as appointed; and
Approval of the application for production formula will be
obtained within 30 working days from the date of receiving all
documents required by the drawback law and regulation.
2.7.4 Exportation of Goods
The imported goods under a drawback scheme must be exported within 1
year from the date of importation of raw materials. In addition to the
documents required for normal export processes, the exporter under the
drawback scheme is required to submit the documents and follow the
instructions listed below:
Attachment to the Export Declaration Form (Customs Form
No.113) declaring all required particulars;
A packing list;
An invoice;
Check the box indicating Drawback under Section 19 bis;
Declare the name of Customs office/house where the drawback is
taking place;
In case where Customs does not required samples of finished
products, the exporter must check the box indicating Exempted from
Submission of Samples
287
2.7.5 Claim for Drawback or Withdrawal of Bank Guarantee
A drawback claim or withdrawal of bank guarantee must be submitted to the
Drawback Unit within 6 months from the date of exportation. The documents
required are as follows:
A Drawback Application under Section 19 bis (Customs Form
No. 111) and its Attachment indicating the numbers of both the
Import and Export Declaration Forms;
A valid specimen signature card of the owner or manager
issued by Customs;
A valid specimen signature card of the authorized person
issued by Customs;
A registration certificate of the Ministry of Commerce,
detailing and indicating the purpose of the juristic person; and
A Value-Added Tax Registration.
Additional documents are also required in checking raw material inventory
for the drawback claim as specified .
2.7.6 Distinction between Drawback and Excise Rebate.
No Drawback is admissible on finished products on which either excise duty
or export duty is paid. Because the finished excisable goods can be exported
either under bond` or under Claim of rebate`. Hence, the finished excisable
goods need not suffer any duty as the same is either refunded or need not be
paid under the Scheme of export under excise bond. In case any export duty
is paid, no drawback or refund thereof is admissible. Besides, drawback is
also admissible under Deemed Export Policy.
2.8 Tax Concessions
The exporters are eligible for fiscal incentives as detailed below :
Sales Tax Exemption
Income Tax Exemption
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Service Tax Remission/Exemption
2.8.1 Sales Tax Exemption
Exporters are eligible to claim exemption from the levy of sales tax on the
supplies taken by them for manufacture of goods meant for production of export
product or supplies of goods for exports against specific export orders. This
facility is available to the exporters both under the Central Sales Tax Act 1956
and under the Local Sales Tax Acts of the specific states. The exporters are
required to give Form H to the suppliers of goods/materials from another State
and the exemption form prescribed by the Sales Tax Department of the State
concerned in case of supplies procured from within the State.
The 100% export oriented units and the units in export processing zones,
electronic hardware technology park and software technology park are entitled
to full reimbursement of Central Sales Tax paid by them on the purchases made
by them from within the State in which they are located, for the purpose of
production of goods meant for exports.
2.8.2 Income Tax Exemption
The export firms are eligible for deduction under Section 80 HHC in respect
of income from export turnover.
Extent of Deduction u/s 80HHC in case of manufacturer exporter is
determined in the following manner:
=30% of (Profit of business *export turnover/Total turnover) +
(90% of Export incentives* Export turnover/ Total turnover)
Deduction is available to the units engaged in the export of computer
software (to include customized electronic data or any other product or service
289
of a similar nature as may be notified by the Central Board of Direct Taxes)
under Section 80 HH E. It is calculated as below:
= 30% of (Profit of business *export turnover/Total turnover)
Under Section 10 A, Tax holiday has been provided for 10 years beginning
assessment year 2000-2001 for the newly established industrial undertakings in
free trade zones, electronic hardware technology park or software technology
park as well as 100% export oriented units. One of the basic conditions is that
the export proceeds must be realised in free foreign exchange i.e., freely
convertible foreign currency.
2.8.3 Service Tax Remission/Exemption in DTA and SEZ
For all goods and services, which are exported from units in Domestic Tariff Area (DTA) and units in
EOU/EHTP/STP/BTP, remission of service tax levied shall be allowed. Units in SEZ shall be exempted from
service tax.
2.9 Summary
To be competitive in the international markets, the exporter need cost effective
raw materials, consumables. At the same time he require latest equipment to
produce high quality products. FTP allows companies to import Machinery,
Software under EPCG and raw materials, consumables etc. under Duty
Exemption Schemes. Repayment of duties which are exempted under the policy
will be remissioned through Duty Draw back scheme. At the same time tax
concessions were provided to strengthen the fiscal muscle of the exporters.
2.10 Glossary:
Aayaat Niryaat Form : It provides information about prescribed form number
against a specific application.
Duty Remission Scheme : It enables post export replenishment/ remission of
duty on inputs used in the export product.
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Duty Entitlement Passbook Scheme : It neutralises the incidence of Customs
duty on the import content of the export product.
Drawback : The rebate of duty chargeable on any imported materials or
excisable materials used in the manufacture of such goods in India.
Drawback Year. It is from 1st June to 31st May (of the following year) as
against the financial year (April-March) and calendar year (January-December).
2.12 Self Assessment Questions
1. Explain the benefits of EPCG scheme.
2. List various options of importing goods under duty exemption scheme.
3. Differentiate DFIA, DFRC and DEPS
4. What is Duty Drawback? List the conditions and formalities.
5. Explain the Tax concessions provided for exporters.
1.8. Further Readings:
6 Gupta, R.K.: Anti-dumping and Countervailing Measures, Sage
Publications, New Delhi.
7 Nabhi`s Exporter`s Manual and Documentation, Nabhi Publication, New
Delhi.
8 Sodersten, B.O: International Economics, MacMillan, London.
9 Varsheny R.L. and B. Bhattacharya: International Marketing Management,
Sultan Chand & Sons, New Delhi.
10 Verma, M.L: International Trade, Commonwealth Publishers, Delhi.
291
Lesson 3: Market Development Assistance and Role of Export
Houses
Objectives:
After studying this lesson you should be able:
To know activities supported through Market Development Assistance
To understand the limits of assistance provided to eligible companies.
To know the organisations who receive assistance
To understand the concept of Export Houses
To learn the role of state trading corporation and other organisations
Structure
3.1 Marketing Development Assistance Scheme
3.2 Assistance to Export promotion Councils
3.3 Pattern of assistance to Grantee/Approved other organizations
3.4 Star Export Houses
3.5 Assistance from state trading organisations
3.6 Summary
3.7 Glossary
3.8 Self Assessment Questions
3.9 Further Readings
3.1 Marketing Development Assistance Scheme
Export promotion continues to be a major thrust area for the Government in
view of the prevailing macro economic situation with emphasis on exports and
to facilitate various measures being undertaken to stimulate and diversify the
292
country`s export trade, Marketing Development Assistance (MDA) scheme
(revised guidelines w.e.f. 1.4.2004) is under operation through the Department
of Commerce to support the under mentioned activities:
Assist exporters for export promotion activities abroad.
Assist Export Promotion Councils (EPCs) to undertake export promotion
activities for their product(s) and commodities.
Assist approved organizations/trade bodies in undertaking exclusive non-
recurring innovative activities connected with export promotion efforts for
their members.
Assist EPCs to contest Countervailing Duty/Anti Dumping cases initiated
abroad.
Assist Focus export promotion programs in specific regions abroad like
FOCUS (LAC), Focus (Africa), Focus (CIS) and Focus (ASEAN + 2)
programs.
Residual essential activities connected with marketing promotion efforts
abroad.
The utilization of scheme is administered by the E&MDA Division in the
Department of Commerce, Government of India, Udyog Bhavan, New Delhi-
110 011.
3.1.1 Who are eligible
Assistance to individual exporters for export promotion activities abroad ?
Participation in EPC etc. led Trade Delegations/BSMs/Trade Fairs/ Exhibitions:
Allowing participation of exporting companies in fairs/exhibition abroad will be
allowed either directly OR through the EPCs/ITPO lead activities as per
details mentioned in MDA guidelines
293
However, for Buyer Seller Meet and Trade Delegations, no direct participation
has been allowed and these are to be allowed only for EPCs/ITPO led activities.
i.
Exporting companies with an f.o.b. value of exports of upto Rs. 5.00
crore in the preceding year will be eligible for MDA assistance for
participation in EPC etc. led trade delegations/BSMs/fairs/exhibitions
abroad to explore new markets for export of their specific product(s) and
commodities from India in the initial phase and exporting companies with
an f.o.b. value of export upto Rs. 10.00 crores in the preceding year will be
eligible for MDA assistance.
ii.
Assistance would be permissible on travel expenses assistance would be
permissible on travel expenses by air, in economy excursion class fair
and/or charges of the built up furnished stall, @ 90% for exporters having
valid SSI registration certification and @ 75% for others including
merchant exporters. This would, however, be subject to an upper ceiling
mentioned in the Table 3.1 per tour.
Table 3.1
S. Area/
No. of visits Maximum Financial ceiling per event
No. Sector
eligible
BSM/Trade
Trade Fair/
Total (in
Fair/Delegations/
Exhibition
Rs.)
Exhibition etc. abroad abroad (in Rs.)
(in Rs.) (Travel grant) (Stall charges)
(A)
(B)
(A + B)
1 Focus LAC
1
90,000/-
50,000/-
1,40,000/-
2 Focus Africa
1
60,000/-
50,000/-
1,10,000/-
(including WANA countries
3 Focus CIS
1
60,000/-
50,000/-
1,10,000/-
4 Focus
1
60,000/-
50,000/-
1,10,000/-
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ASEAN
5 General Areas
1
Nil
50,000/-
50,000/-
TOTAL
5
The participation of individual companies in the above activities shall be subject
to the following conditions:
For EPC etc. led Trade Delegations/BSMs only air-fare by economy excursion
class as indicated above shall be permissible. For participation in Trade
Fairs/Exhibitions stall charges in addition to travel expenditure shall also be
permissible subject to ceilings mentioned in the above table.
Maximum number of permissible participations shall be five in a financial year
as indicated in above table (No travel grant is permissible for one visit to
General Areas)
Assistance shall be permissible to one regular employee/director/partner/
proprietor of the company Assistance would not be available to exporter of
foreign nationality or holding foreign passport.
Intimation application must be received in the concerned EPC etc. with a
minimum of 14 days clear advance notice excluding the date of receipt of
application in the office of the concerned organization and the date of departures
from the country.
The company shall not be under investigation/charged/prosecuted/
debarred/black listed under EXIM Policy of India or any others law relating to
export and import business.
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Maximum MDA assistance shall be inclusive of MDA assistance received from
all Govt. bodies/FIEO/EPCs/Commodity Boards/ Export Development
Authorities/ITPO etc.
3.2 Assistance to Export Promotion Councils:
Export Promotion Councils (EPCs) are autonomous in administrative matters
and no financial assistance is provided to them from MDA from administrative
expenditure. The EPCs can, however, be considered for one time assistance for
computerization for data collection, analysis, dissemination under MDA
Maintenance and updating of systems shall be the responsibility of the EPCs.
Role of EPCs shall be diversify the export promotion activities to new emerging
potential markets wherein the participation by the Indian companies is yet to be
established. The trade fairs/exhibitions organized and participated by the EPCs
on three or more occasions shall be left to the exporters for participation
individually. For such established trade fairs/exhibitions, EPC shall organize
booking of the space/ stalls for its members based on the pre-accessed
requirement, construction/furnishing of stalls, publicity for the event etc.
Member exporters of the council shall participate individually in the space/stall
allotted to them by the EPC. MDA assistance to the EPC shall be available for a
particular fair/exhibition upto a maximum of three participations and thereafter,
participation in such established fairs/exhibitions shall be on self-financial basis.
3.2.1 Focus Area programmes
At present 4 Focus Area programmes viz Focus (LAC), Focus (Africa), Focus
(CIS) and Focus (ASEAN + 2) are under operation in the Department. In
addition to activities in non focus areas, special provision has been made under
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Reverse Trade Visits for visits of prominent delegates and buyers (one person
from each organization) from these Focus Area Regions for participation in
buyer cum seller meets, exhibitions etc., in India. The foreign
delegates/buyers/journalists would be assisted in meeting their return air travel
expenses in economy excursion class upto the entry point in India. Activities
which are eligible under Focus Area Programmes and assistance are mentioned
in the Table 3.2.
:
Table 3.2
FOR ACTIVITIES UNDER THE FOCUS-AREA PROGRAMMES
S.No. Permissible Items of expenditure under MDA
Percentage of funding
under MDA
1 (i) Participation in International Fairs/Exhibitions As applicable in non-
organized by EPCs etc.
focus area with ceiling of
Rs. 10 lakh.
(ii) Sponsoring BSMs/Trade delegation abroad by EPCs etc.
2 Reverse Trade visits of prominent foreign
buyers/delegates/journalists to India for
participation in BSMs/exhibition etc.:
(i) Return air-fare travel expenses in economy
(i) 100% (subject to a
excursion class upto the entry point in India
ceiling of Rs. 90,000/- for
LAC and Rs. 60,000/- for
MDA grant shall be considered for return air fare other Focus areas)
(in economy excursion class) and hotel charges
etc. with ceiling of Rs. 90,000/-(for LAC) and
Rs. 60,000/- (for other focus areas) per buyers.
(ii) Venue charges
(ii) & (iii) As applicable
(iii) All other organizing expenditure
in non-focus area with
All other expenses relating to stay, per diem
ceiling of Rs. 10 lakh
allowance, local travel etc. of delegates invited
from abroad are to be met by the EPC or by
sharing between the organizers and delegates
3 Translation facilities in foreign languages and
60%
vice versa.
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4 Product catalogue in CD ROM
60%
When EPC conduct an event abroad in more than one country during the same
tour, additional event cost shall be allowed @ Rs. 10.00 lakh per country subject to
60% reimbursement.
3.2.3 Non-focus areas
For activities in Non-Focus areas details of funding are given below.
For Participation in Fairs / Exhibitions abroad by EPCs etc. And For EPC
sponsored Buyer Seller Meets/Trade Delegations abroad:
i)
Central stall of council 60% of Council rent and other organising
expenditure (subject to a ceiling of Rs. 10 lakh per event)
ii)
100% funding for one official of EPC towards air fare, DA, Hotel stay
expenses
iii)
Entertainment expenses upto a ceiling of $ 500.
For organising Promotional Activities like seminars, workshops etc., on
quality upgradation, awareness creation etc., with focus on export
promotion within India by EPCs etc
i)
60% Venue Cost and other organising expenditure (subject to a ceiling
of Rs. 10 lakh per event)
ii)
100% funding for one official of EPC towards air fare,DA, Hotel stay
expences
iii)
60% of net approved expenditure after accounting for the revenue
generated through the sales, advt. etc. for Publicity/publicity with focus on
export promotion and brought out for circulation/use of overseas
buyers/organizations and advertisement abroad
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3.2.4 Financial Assistance to contest Countervailing Duty/Anti Dumping
cases initiated abroad
No distinction need be made between CVD and AD investigations since both
types of cases have intended to involve various export incentives granted by the
Government e.g. income tax concessions, export credit concessions, advance
licensing, drawback etc.
3.3 Pattern of assistance to Grantee/Approved other organizations
3.3.1 FIEO
MDA assistance to FIEO will be on the lines as applicable to EPCs, with the
condition that export promotion activities by FIEO should be for multi-
products/sectors or products/services not covered by any other EPCs or to a
country where EPC is not in a position to participate. FIEO can also sponsor
requests of its members exports for participationin fairs/exhibitions/BSMs/Trade
delegations led by FIEO for MDA assistance.
3.3.2 ITPO
Allocation for ITPO from MDA would be kept to the minimum and confined
to the special fairs to meet deficit as approved by the Exhibition Advisory
Committee in the Department of Commerce. ITPO should cross subsidize other
events from surpluses in other fairs.
3.3.3 IIFT, IIP, IDI and ICA
MDA assistance to IIFT, IIP, IDI and ICA for various activities on an annual
basis would not be provided. However, specific development activities directed
towards export growth of Indian products and Commodities would be
considered by the Govt. (E&MDA Division in the Department of Commerce)
for part financing.
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3.3.4 To other approved trade bodies
On receipt of specific development and export promotion project(s) from the
approved trade bodies such as ASSOCHAM, CII, FICCI etc. (other than IIFT,
IIP, IDI, ICA and ITPO), E&MDA Division may consider financing one or two
special specific non-recurring activities with 60% financial assistance of the net
expenditure on approved items from MDA subject to maximum MDA assistance
of Rs. 10 lakh for each focus area programme + Rs. 10 lakhs for general areas.
As such the total MDA grant to such approved trade bodies would not be more
than Rs. 50 lakhs in a financial year to a particular approved trade body.
3.3.5 Adhoc Grant-in-Aid
Residual essential activities or proposals connected with the export effort, which
qualify for the grant-in-aid but not covered by this Code will also be considered
on merits for assisting from the Marketing Development Assistance scheme.
3.4 Star Export Houses
Commerce ministry recognising organisations whose export performance above
the specified value as star export houses and providing certain privileges to
them. The reason behind recognising the trade houses is recognise their
continuous efforts in trade and to create a hassle free environment to them. The
incentives will provide better fiscal strength as well as better marketing abilities.
These facilities make their focus continuously on export markets. They also
bacome a channel for exporting the products produced from small scale
industries.
Merchant as well as Manufacturer Exporters, Service Providers, Export Oriented
Units (EOUs) and Units located in Special Economic Zones (SEZs), Agri Export
Zone (AEZ`s), Electronic Hardware Technology Parks (EHTPs), Software
Technology Parks (STPs) and Bio Technology Parks (BTPs) shall be eligible for
applying for status as Star Export Houses.
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3.4.1 Status Category
The applicant shall be categorized depending on his total FOB/FOR export
performance during the current plus the previous three years:
Table 3.3
Category
Performance (Rupees in Crores)
One Star Export House
15
Two Star Export House
100
Three Star Export House
500
Four Star Export House
1500
Five Star Export House
5000
More weightage is given to manufacturer exporters in the Small Scale
Industry/Tiny Sector/Cottage Sector, Units registered with KVICs/KVIBs, Units
located in North Eastern States, Sikkim and J&K, Units exporting handloom/
handicrafts/hand knotted or silk carpets, etc in granting star export status.
3.4.2 Privileges
A Star Export House shall be eligible for the following facilities:
i)
Licence/certificate/permissions and Customs clearances for both imports
and exports on self-declaration basis;
ii)
Fixation of Input-Output norms on priority within 60 days;
iii)
Exemption from compulsory negotiation of documents through banks.
The remittance, however, would continue to be received through banking
channels;
iv)
100% retention of foreign exchange in EEFC account;
v)
Enhancement in normal repatriation period from 180 days to 360 days.
vi)
Entitlement for consideration under the Target Plus Scheme; and
vii) Exemption from furnishing of Bank Guarantee in Schemes under this
Policy.
3.4.3 Validity Period
All status certificates issued or renewed on or after 01.09.2004 shall be valid
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from 1st April of the licensing year during which the application for the grant of
such recognition is made upto 31st March, 2009, unless otherwise specified.
3.5 Assistance from state organisations
3.5.1 Export Credit Guarantee Corporation of India Limited (ECGC)
Export Credit Guarantee Corporation of India Limited, was established in the
year 1957 by the Government of India to strengthen the export promotion drive
by covering the risk of exporting on credit.
ECGC provides a range of credit risk insurance covers to exporters against loss
in export of goods and services, and also offers guarantees to banks and
financial institutions to enable exporters obtain better facilities from them.
Exporters have a lot to benefit from ECGC as it provides ---
6. insurance protection to exporters against payment risks
7. provides information on credit-worthiness of overseas buyers
8. provides information on about 180 countries with its own credit ratings
9. guidance in export related activities
10. makes it easy to obtain export finance from banks/financial institutions
11. assists exporters in recovering bad debts
3..5.2 Export Inspection Council, New Delhi (EIC)
The EIC, an autonomous body, is responsible for the enforcement of quality
standards and compulsory pre-shipment inspection of the various commodities
meant for export and notified under the Export (Quality Control & Inspection)
Act, 1963. It was set up under Section (3) of the Export (Inspection and Quality
Control) Act, 1963. It is headed by a Director. EIC is assisted in its functions by
the Export Inspection Agencies (EIAs) located at Chennai, Delhi, Kochi,
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Kolkata and Mumbai along with a network of 42 sub-offices and laboratories to
back up the pre-shipment inspection and certification activities.
3.5.3 National Centre for Trade Information (NCTI).
National Centre for Trade Information(NCTI) is a joint venture of India Trade
Promotion Organisation (ITPO) and National Informatics Centre (NIC) under
the aegis of Ministry of Commerce. It has been incorporated and registered as a
company under Section 25 of Indian Companies Act, 1956. The company has a
Board of Directors for administration of its affairs, which include
representatives from National Informatics Centre, India Trade Promotion
Organisation, Apex chamber of Commerce/ Industry/ Trade, Export Promotion
Councils and Commodity Boards etc.. NCTI is setup to synergise the efforts of
different organisations engaged in collection, processing and dissemination of
trade and investment information .
3.5.4 India Trade Promotion Organisation (ITPO)
Indian Trade Promotion Organisation (ITPO), New Delhi, is the premier trade
promotion agency of India and provides a broad spectrum of services to trade
and industry so as to promote export. With Headquarters at Pragati Maidan, a
modern exhibition complex spread over 150 acres in New Delhi and regional
offices at Bangalore, Chennai, Kolkata and Mumbai, ITPO ensures a
representative participation of trade and industry from different regions of the
country at its events in India and abroad.
3.5.5 State Trading Corporation (STC)
The State Trading Corporation of India Ltd. (STC) is a premier international
trading house owned by the Government of India. Having been set up in 1956,
the Corporation has developed vast expertise in handling bulk international
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trade. Though, dealing largely with the East European countries during the early
years of its formation, today it trades with almost all the countries of the world.
By virtue of infrastructure and experience possessed by the Corporation, it plays
an important role in arranging import of essential items into India and
developing exports of a large number of items from India. It exports a large
number of items ranging from agricultural commodities to manufactured
products from India to all parts of the world. Because of Corporation's in depth
knowledge about the Indian market, STC is able to supply quality products at
most competitive prices and ensure that the goods reach the foreign buyer within
the prescribed delivery schedule. It also imports bulk commodities for Indian
consumer as per demand in the domestic market.
The eventful track record of more than 50 years has helped STC to gear itself to
face the fierce competitive challenges, seize business initiatives and build on its
core competencies.
3.5.5.1 Services provide by STC
While undertaking import and export operations, the Corporation renders
following services
To the Overseas buyer:
STC acts as an expert guide for buyers interested in Indian goods. For them,
STC finds the best Indian manufacturers, undertakes negotiations, fixes delivery
schedules, oversees quality control - all the way to the final shipment to the
entire satisfaction of the buyer.
To the Indian Industry
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The Indian manufacturers, whose products sail the seas via STC, benefit a lot
from its expertise. STC helps thousands of Indian manufacturers to find markets
abroad for their products. STC assists the manufacturers to use the best raw
materials, guides and helps them manufacture products that will attract buyers
abroad. Some of the other services offered by STC to the Indian manufacturers
include:
Financial assistance to exporters on easy terms.
Taking products of small scale manufacturers to international trade fairs and
exhibitions.
Import of machinery and raw material for export production.
Assistance in the areas of marketing, technical know-how, quality control,
packaging, documentation, etc.
Supply of imported goods in small quantities as per convenience of buyers.
Market intervention on behalf of the Government.
To the Indian Consumer:
The Indian consumers also benefit from STC's expertise and infrastructure. STC
imports essential commodities for them to cover shortfalls arising in the
domestic market. During the last one decade, STC imported sugar, wheat and
pulses to meet domestic requirements at a very short notice.
3.6 Summary
Marketing Development Assistance (MDA) is under operation through the
Department of Commerce to Assist exporters for export promotion activities
abroad., Assist Export Promotion Councils (EPCs) to undertake export
promotion activities for their product(s) and commodities and to Assist approved
organizations/trade bodies in undertaking exclusive non-recurring innovative
activities connected with export promotion efforts for their members. Export
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houses are recognised based on their export performance and provided god
number of privilises. Manufactures, traders and units in export zones are eligible
for this facilities. Government providing various services through state run
organisations like ECGC, EIC, NCTI, ITPO, STC etc. The ultimate aim is build
Dynamic Organisations and to have a good share in the international trade.
3.7 Glossary:
Marketing Development Assistance (MDA): It is an operation through which
the financial assistance provided to exporters for export promotion activities in
India and abroad.
Focus Area: Promising markets, which are presently under target
Pre-shipment Inspection: Certification of goods by authorised agencies that the
goods are as per specification. It is desirable before shipping.
3.8 Self Assessment Questions
1. List the activities that are supported by MDA.
2. Explain the role of EPCs in export promotion and financial support
extended to these activities.
3. Explain the role of Export houses and privileges received by them.
4. List a few state organisations that support international trade.
3.9 Further Readings:
11 Gupta, R.K.: Anti-dumping and Countervailing Measures, Sage
Publications, New Delhi.
12 Nabhi`s Exporter`s Manual and Documentation, Nabhi Publication, New
Delhi.
13 Sodersten, B.O: International Economics, MacMillan, London.
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14 Varsheny R.L. and B. Bhattacharya: International Marketing Management,
Sultan Chand & Sons, New Delhi.
15 Verma, M.L: International Trade, Commonwealth Publishers, Delhi.
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Lesson 4:
Special Economic Zones
Objectives:
After studying this lesson you should be able:
To learn the concept of SEZs
To understand the terms and conditions for setting up SEZs
To learn the incentive/facilities available for SEZ units
To know the facilities for Domestic suppliers to SEZ
Structure
4.1 Introduction
4.2 Distinguishing Features
4.3 The State Government commitment towards SEZs
4.4 Terms & conditions for setting up of SEZ
4.5 Obligation of the Unit under the Scheme
4.6 The incentive/facilities available for SEZ units
4.7 The facilities for Domestic suppliers to SEZ
4.8 Summary
4.9 Glossary
4.10 Self-assessment Questions
4.11 References
4.1 Introduction
Special Economic Zone (SEZ) is a specifically delineated duty free enclave and
shall be deemed to be foreign territory for the purposes of trade operations and
duties and tariffs.
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Usually the goal is an increase in foreign investment. Special Economic Zones
have been established in several countries, including the People's Republic of
China, India, Iran, Jordan, Poland, Kazakhstan, the Philippines and Russia.
North Korea has also attempted this to a degree, but failed. Currently, Puno,
Peru has been slated to become a "Zona Ecomomica" by its president Alan
Garcia. In the United States, SEZ are referred to as "Urban Enterprise Zones"
The policy provides for setting up of SEZ's in the public, private, joint sector or
by State Governments or its agencies. Even foreign companies can set up
Special Economic Zone (SEZ).
4.1.2 Conversion of EPZs into SEZs
It was also envisaged that some of the existing Export Processing Zones would
be converted into Special Economic Zones. Accordingly, the Government has
converted Export Processing Zones located at Kandla and Surat (Gujarat),
Cochin (Kerala), Santa Cruz (Mumbai-Maharashtra), Falta (West Bengal),
Madras (Tamil Nadu), Visakhapatnam (Andhra Pradesh) and Noida (Uttar
Pradesh) into a Special Economic Zones.
In addition, 3 new Special Economic Zones approved for establishment at
Indore (Madhya Pradesh), Manikanchan ? Salt Lake (Kolkata) and Jaipur have
since commended operations. Currently, India has 15 SEZs, each an average
size of 200 acres. The government has approved as many as 164 or more SEZs.
4.1.3 Distinguishing Features
Indian SEZ policy has following distinguishing features:
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a) The zones are proposed to setup by private sector or by state Govt. in
association with Private sector. Private sector is also invited to develop
infrastructure facilities in the existing SEZs
b) State Government have a lead role in the setting up of SEZ.
c) A framework is being developed, by creating special window under existing
rules and regulations of the Central Govt. and State Govt. for SEZ.
4.2 The State Government Commitment Towards SEZs
That area incorporated in the proposed Special Economic Zone is free
from environmental restrictions;
That water, electricity and other services would be provided as required;
That the units would be given full exemption in electricity duty and tax
on sale of electricity for self generated and purchased power;
To allow generation, transmission and distribution of power within SEZ;
To exempt from State sales tax, octroi, mandi tax, turnover tax and any
other duty/cess or levies on the supply of goods from Domestic Tariff
Area to SEZ units;
That for units inside the Zone, the powers under the Industrial Disputes
Act and other related labour Acts would be delegated to the
Development Commissioner and that the units will be declared as a
Public Utility Service under Industrial Disputes Act.
That single point clearances system and minimum inspections
requirement under State Laws/Rules would be provided.
4.3 Terms & conditions for setting up of SEZ
Only units approved under SEZ scheme would be permitted to be located in
SEZ. The SEZ units shall abide by local laws, rules, regulations or bye-laws in
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regard to area planning, sewerage disposal, pollution control and the like. They
shall also comply with industrial and labour laws as may be locally applicable.
Such SEZ shall make security arrangements to fulfill all the requirements of the
laws, rules and procedures applicable to such SEZ. The SEZ should have a
minimum area of 1000 hectares and at least 25 % of the area is to be earmarked
for developing industrial area for setting up of units. Minimum area of 1000
hectares will not be applicable to product specific and port/airport based SEZs.
Wherever the SEZs are landlocked, an Inland Container Depot (ICD) will be an
integral part of SEZs.
4,4 Incentive/ Facilities to SEZ Developer
The following incentives/facilities are provided to SEZ developer.
100% FDI allowed for:
(a) townships with residential, educational and recreational facilities on a
case to case basis,
(b) Franchise for basic telephone service in SEZ.
Income Tax benefit under (80 IA ) to developers for any block of 10
years in 15 years.
Duty free import/domestic procurement of goods for development,
operation and maintenance of SEZs
Exemption from Service Tax /CST.
Income of infrastructure capital fund/co. from investment in SEZ exempt
from Income Tax
Investment made by individuals etc in a SEZ co also eligible for
exemption u/s 88 of IT Act
Developer permitted to transfer infrastructure facility for operation and
maintenance.
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Generation, transmission and distribution of power in SEZs allowed
Full freedom in allocation of space and built up area to approved SEZ
units on commercial basis.
Authorised to provide and maintain service like water, electricity,
security, restaurants and recreation centres on commercial lines.
4.5 Obligation of the Unit under the Scheme
SEZ units have to achieve positive net foreign exchange earning as per the
formula given in paragraph Appendix 14-II (para 12.1) of Handbook of
Procedures, Vol.1. For this purpose, a Legal Undertaking is required to be
executed by the unit with the Development Commissioner.
The units are also to execute a bond with the Zone Customs for their operation
in the SEZ. Any company set up with FDI has to be incorporated under the
Indian Companies Act with the Registrar of Companies for undertaking Indian
operations.
4.6 The incentive/facilities available for SEZ units
The following incentive/ facilities are provided to SEZ enterprises.
4.6.1 Customs and Excise
SEZ units may import or procure from the domestic sources, duty free, all their
requirements of capital goods, raw materials, consumables, spares, packing
materials, office equipment, DG sets etc. for implementation of their project in
the Zone without any licence or specific approval.
Duty free import / domestic procurement of goods for setting up of SEZ units
312
are allowed. Goods imported/procured locally duty free could be utilised over
the approval period of 5 years. No License is required for imports, including
second hand machinery.
Domestic sales by SEZ units will now be exempt from SAD. Domestic sale of
finished products, by-products on payment of applicable Custom duty.
Domestic sale rejects and waste and scrap on payment of applicable Custom
duty on the transaction value.
4.6.2 Income tax for Physical export benefit
100% IT exemption (10A) for first 5 years and 50% for 2 years thereafter.
Reinvestment allowance to the extend of 50% of ploughed back profits
Carry forward of losses
4.6.3 Foreign Direct Investment
100% foreign direct investment is under the automatic route is allowed in
manufacturing sector in SEZ units except arms and ammunition, explosive,
atomic substance, narcotics and hazardous chemicals, distillation and brewing of
alcoholic drinks and cigarettes , cigars and manufactured tobacco substitutes. No
cap on foreign investments for SSI reserved items.
4.6.4 Banking / Insurance/External Commercial Borrowings
Setting up Offshore Banking Units (OBU) allowed in SEZs. OBU's allowed
100% Income Tax exemption on profit for 3 years and 50 % for next two years.
External commercial borrowings by units up to $ 500 million a year allowed
without any maturity restrictions. Freedom to bring in export proceeds without
any time limit.
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Flexibility to keep 100% of export proceeds in EEFC account. Freedom to make
overseas investment from it. Commodity hedging permitted. Exemption from
interest rate surcharge on import finance. SEZ units allowed to 'write-off'
unrealized export bills.
4.6.5 Central Sales Tax Act
Exemption to sales made from Domestic Tariff Area to SEZ units.
Income Tax Act:
4.6.6 Service Tax
Exemption from Service Tax to SEZ units
4.6.7 Environment
SEZs permitted to have non-polluting industries in IT and facilities like golf
courses, desalination plants, hotels and non-polluting service industries in the
Coastal Regulation Zone area. Exemption from public hearing under
Environment Impact Assessment Notification
4.6.8 Companies Act
Enhanced limit of Rs. 2.4 crores per annum allowed for managerial
remuneration Agreement to opening of Regional office of Registrar of
Companies in SEZs. Exemption from requirement of domicile in India for 12
months prior to appointment as Director.
4.6.9 Drugs and Cosmetics
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Exemption from port restriction under Drugs & Cosmetics Rules.
4.6.10 Sub-Contracting/Contract Farming
SEZ units may sub-contract part of production or production process through
units in the Domestic Traiff Area or through other EOU/SEZ units
SEZ units may also sub-contract part of their production process abroad.
Agriculture/Horticulture processing SEZ units allowed to provide inputs and
equipments to contract farmers in DTA to promote production of goods as per
the requirement of importing countries.
4.6.11 Labour laws in SEZs
Normal Labour Laws are applicable to SEZs, which are enforced by the
respective state Governments. The state Government have been requested to
simplify the procedures/returns and for introduction of a single window
clearance mechanism by delegating appropriate powers to Development
Commissioners of SEZs.
4.7 The facilities for Domestic suppliers to Special Economic Zone
Supplies from Domestic Tariff Area (DTA) to SEZ to be treated as physical
export. DTA supplier would be entitled to :
Drawback/DEPB
CST Exemption
Exemption from State Levies
Discharge of EP if any on the suppliers
Income Tax benefits as applicable to physical export under section 80
HHC of the Income Tax Act.
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4.7.1 Other features
State has exempted the sales from DTA to SEZ from local levies and taxes.
Customs examination is to the bear minimum.
SEZ units function on self-certification basis. Inter Unit Sales are permitted as
per the Policy. Buyer procuring from another unit pays in Foreign Exchange.
4,8 Summary
A policy was introduced on 1.4.2000 for setting up of Special Economic Zones
in the country with a view to provide an internationally competitive and hassle
free environment for exports. Units may be set up in SEZ for manufacture of
goods and rendering of services. All the import/export operations of the SEZ
units will be on self-certification basis. The units in the Zone have to be a net
foreign exchange earner but they shall not be subjected to any pre-determined
value addition or minimum export performance requirements. Sales in the
Domestic Tariff Area by SEZ units shall be subject to payment of full Custom
Duty and import policy in force. Further Offshore banking units may be set up
in the SEZs.
4.9 Glossary
Special Economic Zone (SEZ) is a specifically delineated duty free enclave
and shall be deemed to be foreign territory for the purposes of trade operations
and duties and tariffs
DTA : Domestic Tariff Area
4.10 Self-assessment Questions
316
1. Explain the reason behind the promotion of SEZs
2. Discuss the assistance provided by the State governments.
3. Explain the benefits provided to SEZ developer.
4. List the advantage of setting up a unit in SEZ.
5. Make a note on the present debate on setting or functioning of SEZs.
1.8. Further Readings:
16 Gupta, R.K.: Anti-dumping and Countervailing Measures, Sage
Publications, New Delhi.
17 Nabhi`s Exporter`s Manual and Documentation, Nabhi Publication, New
Delhi.
18 Sodersten, B.O: International Economics, MacMillan, London.
19 Varsheny R.L. and B. Bhattacharya: International Marketing Management,
Sultan Chand & Sons, New Delhi.
20 Verma, M.L: International Trade, Commonwealth Publishers, Delhi.
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UNIT-V
Foreign Investment Policy
Policy framework for F.D.I in India-Policy on foreign collaboration ? counter
trade arrangements- India`s joint ventures abroad- Project and consultancy
exports.
LESSON-1
FOREIGN DIRECT INVESTMENT
Lesson Outline:
1. Introduction
2. F.D.I policy before Liberalization
3. F.D.I policy after Liberalization
4. Major Initiatives to Attract F.D.I
5. Sector wise flows of F.D.I
6. Source of F.D.I in India
7. International Comparision
After reading this lesson you would be able to
understand:
318
1. The philosophy of the government towards foreign
direct Investment in India from 1947 to 1991
2. A paradigm shift towards F.D.I policy in 1991
3. The major initiatives of the government towards F.D.I
4. Sector wise flow of F.D.I in India
5. International comparision
Introduction
A poor country, which has faced a colonial rule and exploitation for centuries,
must lack capital and thus face poverty, scarcity and unimaginable sufferings of
the people. India presents the best example of poverty in the midst of plenty.
Nature has provided India with almost all the vital resources for economic
development but drainage of the capital made India poor and unable to exploit
her own resources for the most required economic development. Economic
condition of India was very pathetic at the time of independence. India inherited
an economy where there was no structure of industry, agriculture was in the
subsistence stage and one could not imagine about the existence of services
sector. In these circumstances if a country wishes to march towards rapid
economic development, it will have to import machinery, technical know how,
and every other thing for the purpose which can be possible in two ways:-
1. The government has to curtail consumption drastically and export
more and cut import substantially. Russia and China chose this method after the
establishment of the communist government.
2. The second option to achieve foreign technology and equipment is to
depend upon the foreign assistance in some form or the other. Most countries of
the world particularly, the democratic countries, which had embarked on the
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road of economic development, had to depend upon the foreign capital.
Therefore, India also chose to depend upon the foreign capital for the economic
development. The need for foreign capital for a developing country arises on
account of the following reasons:
i.
Since the domestic capital is inadequate for the purpose of economic
growth, thus it becomes necessary to invite foreign capital.
ii.
For want of experience, domestic capital and entrepreneurship may
not flow into certain lines of production. Foreign capital can show
the way for domestic capital.
iii.
There may be potential savings but this may come forward only at a
higher level of economic activity. It is, therefore, necessary that
foreign capital should help in speeding up economic activity in the
initial phase of development.
iv.
It is difficult to mobilize domestic saving in the initial stage for the
financing of projects of economic development that are badly needed
for economic development. The capital market at this period is itself
undeveloped, thus foreign capital is essential as a temporary
measure.
v.
Some scarce productive factors such as technical know how, business
experience and knowledge which equally essential for economic
development, spontaneously come with the foreign capital like the
infant and the mother.
Therefore, after independence the pressure of economic development in India
necessitated a realistic approach towards foreign capital. The first Prime
Minister of India, Pandit Jawahar Lal Nehru, made a statement in April 1949
giving three important assurances to foreign investors:
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1. India would not make any discrimination between foreign and local
undertakings
1. MNCs
2. Investment by Overseas Corporate Bodies
3. Branches and Subsidiaries of Foreign Companies
4. Foreign Collaboration and Technical Know-how Agreement.
The Importance of F.D.I:
i.
Foreign exchange position permitting, reasonable facilities would be
given to foreign investors for remittances of profits and repatriation
of capital; and
ii.
In case of nationalization of the undertaking, fair and equitable
compensation would be paid to foreign investors.
The Industrial Policy Resolution of 1948 and 1956 as well as Mr. Nehru`s
statement on foreign capital were the basis of the Government`s policy of
foreign capital till 1991 when the New Industrial Policy was announced.
The world financial markets have been continuously opening since 1970`s
which presents a picture of a dramatic and unprecedentedly experienced
situation so far as the world financial system is concerned. This transformation
essentially stem from the interrelated factors. Prominent among them are the
progressive deregulation of financial markets both internally and externally in
leading countries, the internalization of these markets, the introduction of an
array of new financial instruments allowing bigger and riskier financial
investments, and the emergence and the increasing role of new investors in the
markets. Having such a global economy characterized by severe competitive
environment, the role of foreign capital in the economic development of a
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country cannot be ignored. In the present day world, it is very hard to believe
that there is a country which has not depended upon foreign capital during the
course of its economic development.
There are different ways in which foreign capital can come into a country such
as:
1. Foreign Direct Investment (F.D.I)
2. Foreign Collaboration
3. Portfolio Investment
4. Loans from International Institutions
5. Inter-Governmental Loans
6. External Commercial Borrowings.
But we will restrict ourselves to the explanation of the first two i.e. F.D.I and
Foreign Collaboration.
Of all these, F.D.I has been the most prominent source as it is instrumental in
creating assets in an economy. F.D.I can be made by a multinational corporation
or by its subsidiary or by way of joint enterprise involving an MNC and a
domestic partner for setting up a plant or a project in a country.
There are different forms of F.DI. They are:
Since early sixties, the developing countries understood it well that
without having a substantial share in the world trade, they cannot develop their
economies. That is the reason why they gave a slogan ?"Trade No Aid". For
having a success in world trade, their domestic industries must develop to the
degree of competing with the industrially developed countries. Thus they started
working on two areas simultaneously- inviting foreign capital and battling for a
fair deal at world economic forums like GATT and WTO. By now they left the
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restrictive or protectionist trade practice and started opening their economies
because they understood the importance of the F.D.I as a source of economic
development, modernization and employment generation and have liberalized
their F.D.I policies to attract investment. The overall benefits of F.D.I for
developing economies are well documented. F.D.I triggers technology
spillovers, assist human capital formation, contributes to international trade
integration, helps to create a more competitive business environment and
enhances enterprise development. These all finally contribute to higher
economic growth. F.D.I does not only provide initial macro economic stimulus
for actual investment, but it goes beyond it and influences growth by increasing
total factor productivity and more generally the efficiency of resource use in the
recipient economy. Technology transfers through F.D.I generate positive
externalities in the host country.
At the same time one should not forget that F.D.I is like a double edged sword.
On one hand it can add to the country`s capital resources and help in achieving
rapid development, on the other , it can distort the economic properties and
cause misallocation of resources, corrupt administrative machinery and promote
inappropriate technology. Thus if handled properly, foreign capital does add to
the country`s investible resources and facilitates rapid development.
FDI Policy before Liberalization:
Till 1945-46 in India, it were the industrial and financial fields where the foreign
capital was dominating. The foreign trade network, as also part of the internal
trade that fed into exports, was controlled by the foreign capital. British
companies dominated mining, jute industry, shipping, banking insurance, tea
and coffee plantations. British corporations also controlled many Indian owned
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companies. The large presence of the foreign companies, particularly the British
companies before independence, as explained earlier (in introduction part) did
not contribute to the growth of income in the country. In fact it was one of the
major causes of underdevelopment of the country as these companies were
engaged in the production and export of the raw materials and food stuffs. There
was practically no transfer of capital to India and India was a net exporter of
capital to the U.K. There was no scope of transfer of technology as most of the
investment was concentrated in low technology extractive industries.
Against this background, one can easily find the reason why after independence,
an important plank of India`s development policy was to discourage inflows of
foreign capital. Share holding by the foreign companies was also reduced
drastically by forced or voluntary transfer of capital into Indian hands. By the
beginning of 80`s the share of F.D.I in gross capital formation was the lowest for
India among all developing countries. The tough and restrictive policy towards
foreign equity investment continued without any significant change until 1991.
But 1991 is a land mark year for Indian industry and commerce and in general
for the whole Indian economy itself. It was 1991 when the rules governing
foreign investment were liberalized greatly and it continues till date. And hence,
India is once again actively seeking foreign investment. In fact, distinct changes
have been observed in thrust and direction of F.D.I policy of the Government.
These changes are the result of the development in industrial policies and also
foreign exchange situation, from time to time. For the convenience of the study
and seeing the thrust and direction of the policies regarding the F.D.I., it would
be good if we divide the whole period into different time span and analyze the
whole period related to F.D.I. Thus the whole period can be divided into four
sub-heads as follows:
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1. A friendly atmosphere (1950-1967) the first period,
2. The atmosphere of doubt and thus restrictive in nature (1968-
80) the second period,
3. The period of opening up and slow liberalization for F.D.I
regulations (1981-90), the third period, and
4. The complete liberalization and attitudinal change (1991) on
wards.
Let us now discuss these one by one:
Friendly atmosphere (1950-1967)
This period presents a picture of a plan strategy of import substitution and
export promotion adopted by India for its economic development. The rational
behind adopting this strategy was that country was short of capital, technology
and entrepreneurship required for the ambitious programmes of rapid
development. To meet the development requirements of the country, the attitude
towards F.D.I was increasingly receptive. Foreign investment was welcomed on
mutually advantageous terms, preferably through collaboration and majority
local ownership. As foreign investment was considered necessary, foreign
investors were assured of non discriminatory treatment on par with domestic
enterprises. They were allowed to transfer their profit without any restriction and
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dividends and assured fair compensation in the event of nationalization.
However, foreign investment was welcomed but the major interest in ownership
and effective control would always be in Indian hands. Policies regarding FDI
were further liberalized and incentives and concessions were further extended to
face exchange rate crisis of 1957-58. Thus FDI policy in this phase can be
described as one of cautious but friendly one.
1. The Atmosphere of Doubt and Restriction: (1968--80)) After fifteen year`s
period of acceptance and importance, from the year 1968 the feeling started
changing in India regarding FDI. Though this phase was characterized by
considerable investment in various industries, substantial expansion in scientific
and technological knowledge, infrastructure development, skill formation, lesser
requirements of capital and technology imports. Apart from that, outflow on
account of servicing of FDI and technology imports from the earlier period
began to rise in the form of dividends, profits, royalties and technical fees etc.
Consequently the Government was forced to adopt a more restrictive attitude
towards FDI, following are some of the prominent measures adopted by the
Government to restrict the flow of FDI.
1. No FDI without the transfer of the technology was accepted.
2. The renewals of foreign collaboration agreements were
restricted.
3. Foreign Exchange Regulation Act (FERA) was passed in
1973 in order to further restrict FDI in certain core or high
priority industries.
4. Foreign collaborations required exclusive use of Indian
consultancy services wherever available.
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5. Foreign investment was prohibited in industries where local
capability was available.
6. Equity participation of more than 40% was disallowed.
Therefore, after the above explanation, it can easily be said that the above
period (1968-80) was a period of doubt and thereby restriction.
1. The period of Opening up and Slow Liberalization (1981-90)
Since 80`s India started facing the problem of foreign exchange because of
second oil crisis (1979-80) and failure on the front of the export of the
manufactured goods. This necessitated gradual liberalization of FDI policies in
the same period. Therefore this period witnessed a gradual but discernible sign
of easing of restrictions on foreign investment inflows with the liberalization of
industries and policies. Policies were framed to attract more FDI`s and foreign
collaborations. They were specially designed to encourage higher foreign equity
holding in export oriented units and exemptions from the general ceiling of 40%
on foreign equity were allowed on the merit of individual investment proposals.
Rules and procedures regarding remittances of profits, dividends, royalties were
relaxed and efforts were made to provide a framework for expediting clearances
of FDI proposals. The approvals for opening liaison offices by foreign
companies in India were liberalized. A fast channel was set up for expediting
clearances of FDI proposals from major investing countries viz, Japan,
Germany, the US and the UK. Therefore, this phase witnessed concrete efforts
for liberalization of FDI policies.
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1. The Complete Liberalization and Attitudinal Change (1991) Onwards:
The circumstances in 1991 (famine of foreign exchange) compelled the
Government to bring a paradigm shift in its economic policy. Industrial Policy
being a part of the overall Economic Policy, the Government of India adopted a
Policy Statement in July 1991, which automatically brought a shift in the
approach, thrust and direction of FDI policy. There were several objectives of
the industrial policy statement and one among them was that ? foreign
investment and technology collaboration would be welcomed to obtain higher
technology, to increase exports and to expand the production base. This policy
statement followed an open door` policy on foreign investment and technology
transfer. Transparency and openness have been the most significant features of
FDI in this period. During this period, favourable policy environment consisting
of liberalization policies on foreign investment, foreign technology
collaborations, foreign trade and foreign exchange have been exerting positive
influence on foreign firm`s decisions on investment and business operations in
the country.
This period was significant also because, many concessions were announced for
foreign equity capital in 1991-92. Existing companies were allowed to raise
foreign equity capital up to51% subject to certain prescribed guidelines. FDI
was also allowed in exploration, production and refining of oil and marketing of
gas. NRIs and Overseas Corporate Bodies (OCBs) were permitted to invest
100% equity in high priority areas as well as in export houses, trading houses,
hotels and tourism related industries. Disinvestment of equity by foreign
investors has been allowed at market rates on stock exchange as against the
earlier provision of doing so at prices determined by the RBI. Foreign
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companies were allowed to use their trade mark on domestic sales from May 14,
1992.
Another significant change in this respect was the replacement of FERA (
Foreign Exchange Regulation Act of 1973) with FEMA ( Foreign Exchange
Management Act 1999, became effective from 1 June 2000). The most
significant feature of FEMA was that foreign exchange law violators would no
longer be treated as criminals but as civil offenders. Contravention of FEMA
will now attract only a monetary fine and even too has been reduced to a
maximum of three times of the amount involved in contrast to five times
prescribed in FERA. The provision of imprisonment has completely been
abolished for the FEMA violators.
Except for few things, the Government has permitted access to the automatic
route for FDI. Companies with more than 40% of foreign equity are now treated
at par with Indian owned companies. New sectors like mining, banking,
telecommunications, highways, construction, airports, hotels, tourism, courier
services and management have been thrown open for FDI. The most significant
feature of these changes was the opening up of the defense industry up to 100%
for Indian private sector participation with 26% FDI subject to licensing. Now it
is not necessary that FDI must accompany foreign technology agreements.
Liberal approach has been followed towards investment by Non Resident
Indians.
In the recent years some major initiatives have been taken to attract FDI in
India. Important among them are listed below:
1. Cap on foreign investment in the power sector has been removed.
2. 100% FDI has been permitted in the oil refining.
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3. FDI up to 26% is eligible under automatic route in the insurance
sector.
4. Foreign investors can set up 100% operating subsidiaries without
the condition to disinvest a minimum of 25% equities to Indian
entities, subject to bringing in US $50million.
5. 100% FDI permitted for B to B e-commerce.
6. Condition of Dividend Balancing on 22 consumer items has been
removed.
7. 100% FDI on automatic route in drugs and pharmaceuticals
airports, hotels, tourism,
mass rapid transport system development of town ship and
courier services .
8. FDI up to 49% under automatic route in private public sector, 74
in internet service providers(ISPs), page and to in band width and
26% in defense production which has also been opened up to
100% to the domestic private players
9. 100% FDI under automatic route for all manufacturing
activities(with certain exception) in Special Economic Zones
(SEZs)
10. FDI up to 100% is allowed with conditions in telecom sector like
ISPs not providing gateways, electronic mail, voice mail.
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11. The existing upper limit for FDI in projects involving electricity
generation, transmission and distribution (other than atomic reactor
plants) has been dispensed with.
In fact except for a small negative list consisting of very sensitive sectors, FDI
on automatic route has been permitted for all other industries.
In June 2002 Government allowed 100% FDI in tea including plantations in an
effort to step up tea cultivation and modernization. This would also include
foreign ownership in tea plantation, subject to case by case approvals.
Companies opting for this route would have to divert 26% equity to Indian
partner or public within five years. This will require the approval of the
concerned state government if it results into any change in the present land use.
Most significance is the decision by the Government to allow FDI up to 26% in
News and current affairs print media. Technical and Medical publications have
been allowed a higher FDI of 74% while FDI in banking sector has been revised
to 74%. The Government has fixed an annual target of US dollar 7.5 billion FDI
for the Tenth Five Year Plan (2002-2007).
In August 2001, the Planning Commission has set up a steering committee, as
part of the ongoing process of liberalizing FDI policies for suggesting measures
for enhancing FDI inflows in India. Apart from the measures adopted by the
Government, and discussed earlier, in 2001-2002 the Government permitted
100% FDI in development of integrated town ship and regional urban
infrastructure, tea sector, advertising and films and permission to foreign firms
to pay royalty on brand name or trade mark as a percentage of net sales in case
of technology transfer.
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Let us see now the major recommendations of the Steering Committee
headed by S.K.Singh.
1. The committee recommended that a new law should be
enacted to
incorporate and integrate relevant aspects for promoting FDI.
2.
It urges State Governments to enact a special investment law
relating
to infrastructure for expediting investment in infrastructure and
removing hurdles to production in infrastructure.
3.
Empower the (FIPB) Foreign Investment Promotion Board for
granting
initial Central-level registrations and approvals wherever
possible, for
speeding up the implementation
4. Empower (FIIA) Foreign Investment Implementation Authority
for
expediting administrative and policy approvals.
Disaggregating FDI targets for the tenth Plan in terms of sectors, and relevant
administrative ministries/ departments, for increasing accountability.
5.
The Committee also suggested reduction of sectoral FDI caps
to the minimum and elimination of entry barriers. Caps can be taken off
for all manufacturing and mining activities except defense , eliminated in
advertising, private banks, and real estate, and hiked in telecom, civil
aviation, broadcasting, insurance and plantations ( except tea).
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6.
It recommended overhauling the existing FDI strategy by
shifting from a broader macro-emphasis to a targeted sector-specific
approach.
7.
Informational aspects of the FDI strategy require refinement
in the light of India`s strengths and weaknesses as an investment
destination and should use information technology and modern marketing
techniques.
8.
The Special Economic Zones (SEZs) should be developed as
internationally competitive destinations for export- oriented FDI, by
simplifying laws, ruses, and procedures, and reducing bureaucratic
rigmarole on the lines of China.
9.
The N.K.Singh Committee also recommended that the
domestic policy reforms in power, urban infrastructure, and real estate, and
de-control/de licensing should be expedited for attracting FDI.
10. The above mentioned recommendations were implemented and some
favourable results were also experienced, but they were not sufficient viewing
fast changing world scenario. Government having understood these facts, went
on continuing the reform process in the FDI sector and brought wide ranging
changes whenever required. In the same context the Government has brought
some changes in the year 2004-2005 which are discussed below.
MAJOR STEPS TO ATTRACT FOREIGN DIRECT INVESTMENT
(2004-2005)
As the Government is committed to further facilitate Indian Industry, it has
permitted access to FDI through automatic route, except for a small negative
list. Latest revision to further liberalise the FDI regime are as explained below:
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1. The Government has increased the FDI limits in the Domestic Air Transport
Services to the limit of 49% through automatic route and up to 100% by Non
Resident Indians (NRIs) through automatic routes . But the Government has
restrained the Foreign Airlines to have direct or indirect equity participation in
this area.
2. Further reviewing the guidelines pertaining to foreign technical collaborations
under automatic route for foreign financial/technical collaborations with
previous ventures/tie-ups in India, it has been decided that new proposals for
foreign investment/technical collaborations would henceforth be allowed under
the automatic route, subject to sectoral policies.
In this regard following guidelines were framed:
1.
Government`s prior approval would be required only in cases
where the foreign investor has an existing joint venture for
technology transfer/trade mark agreement in the same field.
2.
Though in the cases where investment to be made by venture
capital funds registered with SEBI or where the existing joint
venture investments by either of the parties is less than 3
percent or, where the existing venture/collaboration is defunct
or sick, the Government`s approval would not be required.
3.
In so far as joint ventures to be entering after January 12, 2005
are concerned, the joint venture agreement may embody` a
conflict of interest clause to safeguard the interest of the joint
venture partners in the event of one of the partners desiring to
set up another joint venture or a wholly owned subsidiary in
the same` field of economic activity.
4.
Foreign investment in the banking sector has been further
liberalized by raising FDI limit in private sector banks to 24%
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under the automatic route including investment by fIIs. The
aggregate foreign investment in a private bank from all sources
will be a maximum of 74 per cent of the paid up capital of the
bank and at all times, at least 26 % of the paid up capital held
by residents except in regard to a wholly owned subsidiary of a
private bank. Further, the foreign will be permitted to either
have branches or supervisory authority in the home country
and meeting Reserve Bank`s license criteria will be allowed to
hold 100% paid up capital to enable them to set up wholly-
owned subsidiary in India.
5.
Remarkable in this regard was the changes brought in the
Telecom sector. In this sector FDI ceiling particularly for
basic, public mobile radio trunked services (PMRTS) global
mobile personal communication service (GMPCS) and other
value added services, has been increased from 49% to 74% in
February 2005. The total composite foreign holding including
but not limited to investment by FIIs, NRI/OCB, FCCB,
ADRs, GDRs, convertible preference shares, proportionate
foreign investment in Indian promoters/investment companies
including their holding companies etc. will not exceed 74%.
In January 2004 the guidelines for equity cap on DDI, including
investment by NRIs and Overseas Corporation Bodies (OCBs) were
revised which are listed below:
1.
100% FDI was permitted in printing scientific and technical
magazines, periodicals, journals subject to compliance with
legal framework and with the prior approval of the
Government.
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2.
100% FDI was permitted through automatic route for
petroleum product marketing subject to existing sectoral policy
and regulatory framework.
3.
100% FDI was permitted thorough automatic route in oil
exploration in both small and medium sized fields subject to
and under the policy of the Government on private
participation exploration of oil fields and the discovered fields
of national oil companies.
4.
!00% FDI was permitted through automatic route for petroleum
products pipelines subject to and under the Government policy
and regulations thereof.
5.
100% FDI was permitted for Natural Gas/LNG pipelines with
prior Government approval.
Inflows of FDI in India: In recent years the FDI inflows have continuously
been showing upward trend from 1991 to 1997.The increase in approval of FDI
during the period 1995-96 was quite impressive which is clear from the fact that
while in 1993-94 it was US$3178million, improved up to US$ 11439 million in
1995-96. During 1998-99 the FDI inflows declined considerably. The Asian
crisis and sanctions imposed on India as a consequence of nuclear test were
responsible for such downside. But FDI flow again showed increasing trend
both in the years 2000 and 2001. But the alarming fact is that there is an
enormous gap between FDI approval and flow. For example, if we consider an
average covering 12 years, we find that the FDI flow has been only 27.5% of the
approved amount. Till the third quarter of 2004-2005 the FDI reached US $ 2.5
billion, which is more than double, compared to the corresponding period last
year and is very near to the total FDI inflows in 2003-2004.
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Sector wise FDI inflow : When we look at the sector wise inflow of FDI we
find that from August 1991 to November 2004 the highest share of FDI inflows
have gone to the data-processing software and consultancy services, followed by
pharmaceuticals and automobile industry.
Source of FDI in India: After a close observation of the source of FDI in India,
we find that most of the FDI inflows come from Mauritius (around 35%)
followed by the USA (17.08%0 and Japan (7.33%). The important fact is that
most of FDI flows routed through Mauritius is dominated by the US companies
based there in order to take advantage of the tax concession provided to
Mauritius companies.
International Comparison:
World Investment Report of United Nations Conference on .Trade and
Development (UNCTAD) shows that Global FDI inflows have declined
significantly from the peak of US $ 1.4 trillion in 2000 to US$ 560 billion in
2003 because of slow down in world economy. But FDI inflow to India has
shown a rise , particularly in 2003, to reach US $ 4.27 billion. China is the
largest recipient of FDI inflows among the Asian developing countries. The
share of developing countries in total FDI inflows has declined from 26.9% in
2001 to 23.2% in 2002 but China`s share rose to 7.8% in 2003 from 5.7% in
2001. Out of total FDI inflows of 30.7%of developing countries, China
accounted a major share of 9.6% in 2003. In contrast to China, the share of India
among the Asian countries has been hovering between 0.4%to 0.8% between
2002 and 2003.
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REVIEW QUESTIONS:
1. Explain FDI and it`s need.
2. Examine the importance of FDI in the present context.
3. Explain the FDI policy of the Government of India soon after
independence.
4. What are the different ways through which FDI can come? Explain.
5. Examine the FDI policy in India before liberalization.
6. What are the different periods so far as FDI policy is concerned and what
are their specific characteristics?
7. Explain the special features of FDI policy during 1968-80.
8. Comment upon the Opening up period of the FDI policy.
9. Explain the main features of the FDI policy after liberalization.
10. Comment upon the major recommendations of the S.K.Singh
Committee.
11. Describe the major steps taken during 2004-2005 to attract FDI.
12. Examine the source and sector wise distribution of FDI.
13. Bring an international comparison with regards to FDI flow.
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LESSON -2
FOREIGN COLLABORATION AND POLICY.
Introduction
Foreign Collaboration in the Post Independence Period
Approvals and Actual Inflows of Foreign Investment
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Size and Distribution of Approvals
Extent of Foreign Ownership
Financial and Technical Collaboration
Country wise Investment Approvals and Actual Inflows
Take over and Implementation of Foreign Collaboration
Some Recent Takeovers
FDI and Indian Stock Market
Assessment of Policies towards Foreign Collaboration
After reading this lesson you will be able to understand:
The policies regarding foreign collaboration during
post independence period.
Inflows of foreign capital actual and approvals
Size, distribution and extent of foreign collaboration
Financial and technical collaboration
Takeovers and implementations of foreign
collaborations
FDI and Indian Stock Market
A complete assessment of the foreign collaboration in
India.
Foreign Collaboration In The Post- Independence Period
During the early phase of the planning era, the national policy towards foreign
capital did recognize the need for foreign capital, but decided not to permit it a
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dominant position. Consequently, foreign collaborations had to keep their equity
within the ceiling of 49% and allow the Indian counterpart a majority stake.
Moreover, foreign collaborations were to be permitted in priority areas, more
especially those in which we had not developed our capabilities. But in an
overall sense, our policy towards foreign collaborations remained restrictive and
selective. Consequently, during 1961-70,a total of 2,475 foreign collaborations
were approved and during the next decade (1971-80) an another 3,041
collaborations were sanctioned.
It was only during the eighties that government relaxed its policy towards
foreign collaborations. This was done specifically in respect of investors from
Oil Exporting Developing countries with a well-defined package of exemptions.
This was followed by Technology Policy Statement (TPS) in January 1983.
The objective of the policy was to acquire imported technology and ensure that
it was of the latest type appropriate to the requirement and resources of the
country. Under this policy, a number of policy measures were announced
liberalizing the licensing provisions. They are listed below:
a.
All but 26 industries were exempted from licensing in case of
non
MRTP and non-FERA companies;
b.
Private sector was allowed to participate in the manufacture of
telecommunication equipment;
c.
A number of electronic items were exempted from MRTP Act;
d.
Foreign companies were allowed to manufacture electronic
components;
e.
MRTP companies were allowed to set up industries in
backward
areas;
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f.
A number of new items were added to the list of industries
allowed
to set up by FERA and MRTP units;
g.
Broad banding of a license for a number of industries was
allowed;
and
h.
MRTP companies could commercialize the results of
their
R&D or of those of national laboratories.
These technical collaborations were allowed on financial criteria i.e. , royalty or
lump sum payment or a combination of both. These relaxations resulted in a
larger inflow of foreign direct investment and consequently, the number of
approvals during the decade (1981-90) reached a record figure of 7,436
involving a total investment of Rs.1, 274 crores. Country wise analysis of
foreign collaborations reveals that USA was at the top accounting for nearly
Rs.322.7 crores of investment. This was one-fourth of the total foreign
collaboration approvals. This was followed by Federal Republic of Germany
(17.2 per cent), Japan, U.K, Italy, France and Switzerland. Five countries i.e.
USA, West Germany, Japan, U.K and Italy accounted for nearly 63 per cent of
total approved foreign investment. Even Non-Resident Indians (NRIs)
contributed about Rs.113 crores accounting for 8.9 per cent of total investment.
An industry wise analysis of the distribution of foreign collaboration
approval reveals that Electricals and Electronics (including telecommunications)
accounted for 22per cent of the total approvals, indicating highest priority to this
sector, followed by industrial machinery 15.5 per cent. Foreign collaborations in
chemicals (other than fertilizers) were third in importance. By and large, it may
be stated that the priority sector accounted for about 70 per cent of total
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approvals. It implies that foreign collaborations approvals were more or less in
conformity with the general climate towards foreign capital in the country at that
time.
FOREIGN INVESTMENT APPROVALS AND ACTUAL INFLOWS
The year 1991 will be written in golden letters in Indian history, at least in the
Economic history because of its enormous importance in the field of economic
Philosophy and Policies. This can be termed as a complete shift from a regulated
to a beginning of a deregulated or more aptly to say, free economic system. It
saw the announcement of a New Economic Policy: comprising- new Industrial
and Trade Polices. After the announcement of New Industrial Policy (1991),
there has been an acceleration in the flow of foreign capital in India. As per data
provided by the Government of India, between the period 1991-92 to 2001-
2002, total foreign investment flows were of the order of $30.3 billion (50.7 per
cent) were in the form of Foreign Direct Investment and the remaining
$24.3billion (44.3per cent) were in the form of portfolio investment. This
clearly shows that the preference of foreign firms was more in favour of direct
investment. Moreover, out of the total direct foreign investment of the order of
$30.3 billion, nearly 4.8 per cent ($2.62 billion) was contribution of foreign
firms and investment was 51 per cent of total foreign investment flows.
As a response to the polices of liberalization, the foreign investors were very
keen to undertake portfolio investment, including GDR(Global Depository
Receipts) and investment by Foreign Institutional Investors, Euro equities and
other rose sharply from $244 million in 1992-93 to $3,824 million in 1994-95
and declined to $1,828 million in 1997-98. Portfolio investment became
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negative in 1998-99 but again improved to $2.76 billion in 2000-2001, but again
declined to nearly $1 billion in 2002-03.
Total DFI proposals approved since 1991 till 2002 amounted to Rs.2,90,854
crores against just Rs. 1,274 crores approved during the whole of the previous
decade (1981-90). There is no doubt that it takes sometime for all these
proposals to fructify into actual inflows. Unfortunately, the actual flows as a
proportion of approval were low till 1997, but the situation has shown distinct
improvement thereafter. Actual flow during 2002 peaked to Rs.21,286 crores- a
creditable achievement.
Industry-wise approvals of FDI reveal that for the entire period August 1991 to
March 2004, basic goods industries accounted for about 45 per cent of FDI. Out
of this, the major share was appropriated by power (15.7%) and oil refineries
(12.3%). Mining and metallurgy (ferrous and non-ferrous ) accounted for 4%
and chemicals only 6.2%. The next group in order of importance was that of
services accounting for 31.3% of FDI. The share of telecommunications was
about 18%. Financial services contributed barely 3.9%. Capital goods and
intermediate goods accounted only 10.1% of FDI approvals. Although it is
commonly believed that consumer durables are attracting large share of FDI ,
but the data reveal that they only accounted for 3.0% of FDI approvals.
Consumer non-durables shared about 10% FDI (Refer Table 3).
Analysis of FDI approvals underline the fact that nearly 75% was accounted for
by basic goods industries, capital goods and telecommunication and computer
software services which are high on our priority list. Since segregated data
actual flows industry wise is not available , it is not possible to comment
whether the intentions are being realized in practice, or are distorted in the
process of implementation.
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It is really strange that industrial machinery accounted for only 1.1% of total
approved investment. Explaining this situation, ISID study ,mentions: With
steep reduction in the customs duties for capital goods sector, foreign investors
might be finding it more advantageous to export to India than to manufacture
within the country. It has also been observed that this sector has not been
receiving much attention even in technical collaborations.
However, the data do not reveal the full story. Economic survey (1996-97)
estimated the share of consumer goods sector to be 15.3 per cent and that of
capital goods and machinery 13.1 per cent and infrastructure 49.1 per cent in
FDI approvals during August 1991 to October 1996. It gives an impression that
relatively the share of the consumer goods sectors is small, but in reality it is not
so. This is due to the fact that although food processing accounted for just 6.5
per cent of total approved investment (Rs.7,500 crores ), Coca Cola alone
received approvals worth Rs.2,700 crores and Pepsi Rs.1,000 crores. But these
two soft drink giants since liberalization are dominating the market. Since a
number of consumer goods companies are setting up holding companies and
subsidiaries and the investment in them is not included in approved investment,
the figure of approved investment understate the potential of these companies to
influence market structure. For instance, Hindustan Lever has recently taken
over a number of Indian firms (Brook Bond, Lipton ), Tata Oil Mills and several
other firms and created a subsidiary Unilever. Since investment in subsidiaries is
not reflected in approved investment , these figures do not reflect the full
potential of these firms to dominate the Indian market structure
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SIZE DISTRIBUTION OF APPROVALS
Since bulk of the approvals were in power and fuel and infrastructure sectors,
this resulted in raising the size of investment approvals. For instance, only 58
proposals (0.8 per cent of total) in the range of over Rs.500 crores accounted for
38 per cent of total approvals investment. If we add all proposals aboveRs.100
crores, they account for 72 per cent of total approvals. Thus, large size
investment proposals are likely to dominate foreign investment and the success
of foreign collaborations will be judged on the basis of large size projects.
EXTENT OF FOREIGN OWNERSHIP
Under foreign Exchange regulation Act (FERA), percentage of equity ownership
allowed to foreigners was restricted to 40 per cent and this acted as a deterrent to
the foreign firms acquiring a dominant position. After the announcement in
Industrial Policy of 1991, majority share of foreign companies was permitted
upto 51 percent for automatic approvals, but this limit was raised to 74 per cent
in January 1997 in case of foreign investors and 100 per cent in case of NRIs
(Non-Resident Indians). The government could also permit 100% foreign equity
in high technology and export-oriented foreign companies. Data given in table 5
reveals that:
(i)Prior to liberalization, during 1981-83, the distribution of foreign ownership
was overwhelmingly in favour of upto 40 per cent of total ownership was in
firms with foreign ownership of less that 40 per cent equity.
(ii)
After liberalization, 100 per cent foreign ownership
subsidiaries accounted for 37 per cent . Share of less than 40 per cent ownership
subsidiaries fell to about 14 per cent and that in the range of 40 to 99.9 per cent
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improved to 49 per cent. There is, therefore, a structural change in lthe
ownership pattern of foreign subsidiaries. Majority ownership (more that 50 per
cent) accounted for 64 per cent of total.
Financial and Technical Collaborations
Foreign collaborations are of two types- (i) technical approvals
involving payments for technology, and (ii) financial approvals involving equity
capital of an existing or new undertaking . Upto Rs.600 crores, the Industry
Ministry accords approval on the advice of Foreign Investment Promotion Board
(FIPB), but larger projects over this limits are approved by Cabinet Committee
on Foreign Investment (CCFI).
(i)
Financial collaborations were just 20.1 per cent during
1981-85, their share improved to 28.8 per cent during 1985-90, but rose sharply
to 72 per cent during 1991-97.
(ii)
The amount of approved investment also increased
sharply from Rs.899 crores during 1985-90 to Rs.1,73,510 crores in August
1998.
Obviously, there is a shift from technical approvals to financial approvals during
the post-liberalisation phase. However, Government has been successful in
attracting more foreign investment in the post-liberalisation phase as compared
to the earlier period.
COUNTRYWISE INVESTMENT APPROVALS AND ACTUAL INFLOWS
Although USA was at the top in approvals for the period 1991-204 accounting
for 19.9 per cent of total approvals its share in actual inflows was 16.1 per cent.
As against it, Mauritius accounted for 12.3 per cent in approvals but its share in
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actual flows was of the order of 35.5 per cent. This was due to the fact that
Mauritius is used as a tax shelter and investors belonging to several countires
use it as a conduit to avoid payment of taxes. Next largest contributor of actual
inflows was Non-Resident Indians(NRIs) who accounted for 9.7 per cent of total
inflows. The other contribution to actual inflows of some significance were
Japan, Germany, UK , Netherlands, South Korea, France and Singapoer.
So far as proportion of actual inflows to proposals is concerned, NRIs record
stands out distinctly superior to all countries accounting for about 91 per cent .
Mauritius comes next and actual inflows were 94 per cent of approvals. Next in
order was Japan, Netherlands, Germany, France, and Singapore. In case of
USA,the situation showed a wide gap and actual inflows were barely 26.4 per
cent of approvals. It is vitally necessary to reduce the gap between approvals and
actual inflows.
A review of state-wise flow of FDI approvals reveals, that Maharashtra tops the
list with Rs.51,115 crores (17.5%) followed by Delhi Rs.35,251 crores (12.2%) ,
Tamil Nadu Rs.25,072 crores (8.6%), Karnataka Rs.24,138 crores
(8.3%),Gujarat Rs.18,837 crores (6.4%),Andhra Pradesh Rs.13,745 crores
(4.7%), West Bengal Rs.9,317 crores (3.2%), and Madhya Pradesh Rs.9,271
crores (3.2%). These eight states taken together, account for 64 percent of total
investment approvals. Most of these states with the exception of Madhya
Pradesh are industrialized states. Uttar Pradesh accounted for barely 1.7 % and
Bihar and Jharkhand together accounted for 0.3 per cent of total FDI approvals.
There is a need to alter the flows of FDI in relatively less better-off states.
TAKEOVER AND IMPLEMENTATION OF FOREIGN
COLLABORATIONS
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Indian entrepreneur seems to have lost his bargaining power and well-known
Indian brands have been taken over by TNCs. It needs to be emphasized that
takeover do not add to new production capacities. On the contrary, they are
likely to add to higher outflow of foreign exchange.
In foreign collaborations transfer of superior technology has not been the main
consideration.
SOME RECENT TAKEOVERS
ICI (UK) attempted to takeover Asian Paints.
Hindustan Lever took over TOMCO.
Premier Automobiles transferred two of its plants to Peugeot.
Transfer of Lakme`s brand to a 50:50 Joint Venture with the Levers.
TVS-SUZUKI takes up Hero Honda.
Whirlpool took over TVS Whirlpool.
SUZUKI`s attempted to gain majority control in Maruti Udyog.
Bridgstone increasing its stake from 51to74 per cent in Joint Venture
with ACC.
Bausch & Lomb increasing its share in the Indian venture to 69 per cent.
Henkel increasing its share to 70 per cent.
Blue Star edged out of Motorola Blur Star and Hewlett Packard India.
Shiram`s share got reduced in Shriram Honda Power.
Once the Indian partners transferred the units, they neither had the money nor
the marketing network with them.
FDI AND THE INDIAN STOCK MARKET
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Stock market is an ideal form of organization which by providing easy liquidity
encourages the public to invest and this brings out the latent surplus in the
economy. For this purpose, the shares of good promising companies should
be listed on the market. During the70`s and 80`s a good number of blue-chip
TNC scrips got listed. Notables among them were: Abbot Labs, Burroughs
Welcome, E. Merck, Eskayef, Fulford, Hoechst, May &Baker, Organon, Parke
Davis and Wyeth. The chief objective of offering shares to the public by the
affiliates could not be to raise fresh capital from the public, but was only a
strategy of diluting foreign equity without reducing their foreign parent`s
quantum of investment.
In the post-liberalization period, the policy was reversed. At the first available
opportunity, many foreign affiliates raised foreign equity to majority levels.
While rising of foreign equity to majority levels, most TNC`s indicates a
tendency to avoid the stock market. TNC`s are side-stepping the stock market
and they sell off the existing units to locals and promote wholly-owned-
subsidiaries (WOS) or transfer certain divisions/ products to wholly owned
subsidiaries of the parent company.
The number of technical collaborations declined from 629 in 1997-98 to only
299 in 2003-2004. There was a tendency to convert purely technology transfer
arrangements later into financial collaborations by buying the equity share of the
concerns.
An Assessment of Policies towards Foreign Collaboration
The main arguments put forth by the protagonists of liberalization to permit
larger doses of foreign collaboration are: The days of East India Company are
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over. The inflow of foreign collaborations through Multinational Corporations
(MNCs) or their subsidiaries does not imply subjugation. The share of India in
direct foreign investment when compared with China, Brazial, Mexico etc. is
very low.
Foreign Direct Investment flows have increased from US $51.1 billion in 1992
to about US $ 162.1 billion by 2002 for all developing countries. Data available
with the RBI reveal that India`s share in Foreign Direct Investment increased
from 0.5% in 1992 to 2.1% in 2002. As against it, China`s share improved from
21.8% in 1992 to 33% in 2002. IN absolute terms, whereas China`s shares were
US $52.7 billion in 2002, India share was barely US $ 3.45 billion. Obviously,
India has not been able to benefit much from Foreign Direct Investment despite
the red carpet spread by it for the foreign investors.
Secondly, transfer of technology can also be effected with more investment
being made by technologically advanced MNCs. These gains are not disputed by
the critics, but the fact of the matter is that there are aspects of foreign direct
investment which seriously impinge on people`s welfare and national
sovereignty. It is these aspects which need serious consideration
Thirdly, 45 per cent of the Foreign Investment is in the nature of portfolio
investment (financial investment ) which only strengthens speculative trading in
shares. The wisdom of permitting foreign companies to trade in the share market
is punctuated by a question mark. This has led to an artificial boom in the share
market and the BSE Sensitive Index touched a high mark of 4,282 on 18th June
1994. Earlier when the share market boom burst, the market came tumbling
down and millions of small share-holders who entered the share market to have
a quick buck, suffered very heavy losses, but the big gains for them. The
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securities boom resulted in a scam involving over Rs.5,000 crore. The critics are
of the view that although we feel jubilant over the strengthening of the share
market, but we do not realize the fact that we may be sitting on a volcano.
Even during 2001, the activities of MNCs resulted in wild fluctuations in BSE
Sensitive Index which came tumbling down after budget 2001-2002 was
presented to the parliament. The Government had to intervene so that confidence
in the market is revived. This only underlines the fact that MNCs are able to
manipulate the stock market to suit their goals.
Fourthly, foreign direct investment catering to the needs of the upper middle and
affluent classes, thus concentrating on the 180 million consumers in the Indian
economy. In this sense, they feel a new consumer`s culture of colas, jams, ice
creams, processed foods and the acquisition of durable consumer goods.
Consequently, there is an utter neglect of the wage goods sector. During 1993-
94 to 2001-02, the output of consumer durables increased at an annual average
rate of 12.4 per cent, while that of wage goods was as low as 5.8 per cent. In
other words, production instead of benefiting the masses, is only catering to the
needs of the upper classes. In this sense, the multinationals by entering into
production of goods like potato chips, wafers, bakery products, food processing
etc. are rapidly displacing labour working in the small scale sector since such
units are faced with the MNCs. Thus both from the point of view of the pattern
of production and employments, the unrestricted entry of multinationals in soft
areas has dangerous implications.
Fifthly, portfolio investment made in India is in the nature of hot money which
may take to flight if the market signals indicate any adverse trends. Thus, it
would be a mistake to treat portfolio investment as a stable factor in our growth.
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Sixthly, a larger inflow of foreign direct investment, more so in the financial
sector, will lead to building of reserves which in turn will expand domestic
money supply. Consequently, inflationary tend of prices gets strengthened in the
process. Moreover, the country is witnessing the growth of a vast non-banking
financial and intermediate sector which may include foreign financial companies
and mutual funds. If this sector grows at a very fast rate as is happening in India,
it may render any efforts of monetary management by the Reserve Bank of India
ineffective.
Seventhly, MNCs after their entry are rapidly increasing their shareholding in
Indian companies and are thus swallowing Indian concerns. This has resulted in
a number of takeover by the MNCs and thus, the process of Indianisation of the
corporate sector initiated by Jawaharlal Nehru has been totally reversed. This
has given a serious set back to Indian private sector. This explains the reason
why leading industrialists of the Bombay Club or the All India Manufacture
Organisation (AIMO) have raised their voice against the discriminatory policy
of the government to woo foreign capital at the cost of indigenous capital.
Finally, it has recently come to light that multinationals such as Cadbury
Schweppes, Gillette, Procter and Gamble, Donone, GEC, Unilever, Ciba-Geigy,
Hewlett Packard, Timex, ABB, Unisys and Rhone-Poulenc have decided to
expand their business in India by adopting the wholly-owned (100%) subsidiary
route at the cost of their established and listed subsidiaries. Thus thousands, of
Indian minority shareholders in the listed affiliate subsidiaries (joint ventures)
feel cheated by this move of the multinationals. Earlier, in the last couple of
years, most of the MNCs augmented their holdings in listed affiliates by
acquiring shares at heavy discounts over market prices through the mechanism
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of preferential allotment while making demands for preferential allotment of
shares, MNCs promised that they would bring fresh capital, introduce latest
technologies and marketing skills and help Indian affiliates become more
competitive internationally and accelerate their growth. The move to keep
Indian affiliates out of their activities on the one hand has hurt Indian interests,
but a serious issue is that more attractive and profitable businesses have been
transferred to wholly owned and newly created subsidiaries. Thus a conflict of
interests has arisen between a wholly-owned subsidiary and the 51 per cent
owned affiliates. But since MNCs have acquired majority stake in the affiliates,
the Indian minority investor has been rendered powerless to take any retaliatory
action. Indian industrialists feel that the new move is a kind of day-light robbery
because the MNCs want to profit on established brand names. Moreover, this
will accelerate the process of forex drain from India. But, the clandestine
manner by which the multinationals enhanced their equity at throw-away prices
by seeking preferential allotment of shares, is a blatant abuse of the permissive
clauses, in Industrial policy (1991). It, is therefore, of urgent necessity that the
Government should take remedial steps through SEBI and RBI to plug this
abuse. To sum up, while capital inflows by multinationals may be permitted, but
this should not be allowed at the cost of Indian national interests. The
Government should, therefore, not have an open door policy but should be more
selective in its approach.
REVIEW QUESTIONS:
1. Explain the meaning of foreign collaboration.
2. State the position of foreign collaboration during post independence
period.
3. Bring out a summary of the size and distribution of approvals.
4. What is the extent of foreign ownership? Explain.
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5. What is meant by financial and technical collaboration? Give Indian
position.
6. Bring an account of country wise investment approvals and actual flows.
7. Explain takeovers and implementation of foreign collaboration.
8. Detail out some recent takeovers.
9. Critically examine the role of F.D.I in Stock Market.
10. Bring an assessment of policies towards foreign collaboraaation.
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LESSON -3
Counter Trade Arrangements-Indian Joint Ventures Abroad.
Of late it has been understood by all that foreign exchange cannot only be
earned by exporting goods and services. It can be earned by establishing joint
ventures in other countries. In these circumstances, corporate houses and
companies are called upon to engage in establishing joint ventures in other
countries particularly, in developed countries, if possible. It will serve two
purposes-(i) Easy transfer of technology and, (ii) Less dependency on import of
capital because the companies will earn profit and bring them to the native
countries. This philosophy is based on the empirical evidence of the present
developed countries which have depended on this and achieved a great success.
Thus trade policy should aim at not only increasing and enlarging export of
goods and services, but to create an atmosphere where native companies become
true multinational companies and earn profit like their counterparts of the other
countries.
Present EXIM Policy is designed based n the requirements to facilitate
international trade. It aims to increase exports and liberalize imports. Export
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maximization and import liberalization are he basic objectives if EXIM Policy.
It is the known fact that even after hard efforts India`s share in the world trade is
only 0.8 percent still we are trying or to say our Export Import Policy aims only
at increasing it only by increasing export. This is done by solving bottlenecks in
the present licensing schemes and shifting more than 500 items from restricted
list to special import license and free list. Therefore, the present EXIM Policy
has the following objectives:
1. To accelerate the country`s transition to a globally oriented vibrant
economy with a view to derive maximum benefits from expanding
global market opportunities.
2. To stimulate sustained economic growth by providing access to essential
raw materials, intermediates, components, consumables and consumer
goods required for augmenting production.
3. To enhance the technological strength and efficiency of Indian
agriculture, Industry and Services, thereby improving their competitive
strength while generating new employment opportunities and encourage
the attainment of internationally accepted standards of quality, and
4. To provide consumers with good quality products at reasonable prices.
In order to achieve these objectives, Commerce Ministry has modified
Export Promotion of Capital Goods (EPCG)schemes, merged the Quantity
Based Advance License and Pass Book Scheme, raised the FOB Criterion
for Export Houses, Trading Houses, Star Trading Houses and Superstar
Trading Houses, extended Special Limit to ISO9000units, liberalized exports
and extended the Special Import License list and free list and introduced
Duty Entitlement Pass Book.
India- Joint Ventures Abroad:
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Proposals from Indian companies for overseas investment in Joint Ventures
(JVCs) and Wholly Owned Subsidiaries abroad are considered in terms of the
guidelines issued in this regard by the Government from time to time. As per the
guidelines issued in the month of August 1995, all applications for grant of
approvals for setting up JVs or WOSs abroad are to be made to and processed
by the Exchange Control Department of the RBI. The RBI, in pursuance of the
above mentioned guidelines, started processing overseas investment proposals
with effect from January 1, 1995.
These guidelines were further liberalized or modified by this Ministry
(Commerce Ministry) three times during 7th November 1996 to 22nd August
1997. In addition to the existing fast track route operated by the Reserve Bank of
India, where the total value of the Indian investment does not exceed US$15
million out of balances held in the Exchange Earners Foreign Currency (EEFC)
Account of the Indian promoter company without reference to the RBI. The
second permits overseas investment up to a maximum of 50% of GDRs to be
raised by the promoter company with the clearance of Ministry of Finance.
Apart from these, the RBI operates the normal route where cases are considered
by the Special Committee for investments beyond US$ 4 million and up to US $
15 million, as also cases not qualifying for automatic approval. The Finance
Ministry on the recommendation of the Special Committee considers large
investments beyond US $ 15 million. At the end of March 1998 there were
1,392 active Indian JVs and WOSs abroad, out of which 541 were in production
and 851 were under various stages of implementation. The approved equity of
the 1,392 JVCs or WOSs as on 31.3.1998, amounted to US $ 2,205.425 million.
The total inflow to the country to date as on 31 December 1997 in the form of
dividends, other entitlements repatriated was Rs. 218.32 crores and Rs. 484.46
crores respectively. Apart from this, additional non equity exports to the extent
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of Rs. 1,847crores have been realized up to 31st December 1997 on account of
JVs or WOSs abroad.
Liberalization has created new avenues for foreign investment, technology
collaboration and joint ventures. Among these three, joint venture is the easy
way to enter into the business by the domestic industries and the foreign
counterparts. Joint ventures benefit the investing firm, investing country and the
host country. Joint venture aims to achieve collective self-reliance and mutual
cooperation among the developing countries. The basic objectives of the joint
venture can best be understood by summarizing them in the following manner:
1. Aim to increase export of capital goods, spare parts and components
from India
2. Aim to increase the export of technical know how and consultancy
services
3. To project Indias image abroad as a suppler of capital goods and
updated technology to the global market.
4. To utilize the idle capacity in the capital goods sector in particular and
industrial sector in general.
India`s misfortune in one way is turning favorable to it in other way, because it
is mainly the cheap labour force and thus labour intensive technique which
attracts the foreign countries to enter in to joint ventures with the Indian
industries. On the other hand Indian companies enter in to joint venture with the
developed countries to get the opportunities to avail the technology of the
developed countries. This will reduce the operational cost and increase
productivity. Indian industries are also expected to invest in the foreign
countries and enter into foreign market through joint ventures.
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REQUIREMENT OF POLICIES FOR INDIAN INVESTMENT IN JOINT
VENTURES ABROAD.
There is the requirement of a well designed and transparent policy to enable
Indian industries to plan their business activity and to negotiate with the
potential foreign counterparts for collaboration. Financial support of the
financial institutions and banks are also required for entering in to joint venture
with the collaborator outside the country.
Incentive Offered by the Developing Countries:
Now a days many developing countries offer incentives such as tax holiday,
export incentives, guarantee against expropriation, freedom to remit profits and
repatriate capital and protective tariff to encourage joint ventures by foreign
collaboration in their country. The developing countries prefer joint ventures
from India. The main reason being that, the labor intensive technique of the
Indian industries is suited to the requirements of the developing nations. The
developing countries having limited domestic market may not e in a position to
absorb the capital intensive technology provided by the developed countries.
Therefore, they prefer medium scale technology with labour intensive developed
by India.
Varshenoy and Bhattacharya in their book, International Marketing have
pointed out some factors influencing the selection of a country for the
establishment of joint ventures. The factors are given below:
1. Market for the products concerned - Size of the market
- Market growth
- Existing competition local and foreign
2. Government Regulations
-Tax concessions and incentives
- Price controls their severity
- Local content requirements
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- Export obligations
- Extents of equity holding permitted
- Degree and nature of protection
- Repatriation of capital and profits
3. Economic Stability
- Economy and its management
- Fiscal Policies
- Growth Rate
- Degree of Inflation
- Trade balance and balance of payments
- Balance and indebtedness
- Import and debt service cover
4. Political stability institutions
- Sound political
- Mechanism for orderly transfer of power
- Acceptance of the obligations of the pervious Government
- Political relations with India
Joint Ventures Abroad
Many Indian companies have entered into joint ventures abroad. There
were 524 joint ventures as on 31st December 1994. Out of the 524 joint ventures,
177 were in operation and the remaining 347 were at different stages of
implementation. The Government of India has approved 216 joint ventures in
1995 and 255 in 1996. The total Indian equity in the 177 joint ventures in
operation abroad was at Rs. 179.04 crore and the approved equity for joint
ventures under various stages of implementation is amounted to Rs. 1398.96
crore. Of the 177 joint ventures which are in operation, 99 (56%) are in the field
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of manufacturing and the remaining 78 (44%) are sanctioning in the non-
manufacturing sector. Indian equity in joint venture has been mainly through
export of machinery and equipment/ technology/or capitalization of earnings of
the Indian company through provision of technical know how or other services.
The scale of operation of the Indian joint ventures abroad is generally
small. The shareholding of the Indian joint venture is less than Rs. 50 lakhs in
most of the operating joint ventures. Of late, projects under joint venture with
large equity base are coming up. The Governmental policies and guidelines for
joint ventures encourage Indian joint ventures abroad with large equity base and
insist the Indian enterprises to carefully select the economically viable projects
capable of not only coming higher returns but also projecting better image of
Indian expertise and technology in the overseas market.
Indian joint ventures abroad are engaged in the manufacturing and
non-manufacturing sectors. The Indian joint ventures are functioning in the
manufacturing sectors such as, light engineering, textiles, chemicals,
pharmaceuticals, food products, leather and rubber products, iron and steel,
commercial vehicles, pulp and paper and cement products etc. The non ?
manufacturing sectors are hotels, and restaurants, trading and marketing,
consultancy, engineering and construction. Indian joint ventures are in operation
in the UK, Malaysia, the USA, UAE, Singapore, Srilanka, Russia, Nepal,
Thailand, Mauritius, Nigeria, Indonesia and Hong kong. Majority of the Indian
joint ventures are in operation in the East Asia region followed by Europe-
America region, Africa region , South Asia region and West Asia region.
The earnings of the Indian joint ventures abroad are in the form of
dividends and other entitlements of the Indian promoters such as fee for the
technical known how, engineering services, management services, consultancy
and royalty. Substantial foreign exchange could be earned by exporting
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machineries, and other inputs to joint ventures. The Indian promoters are getting
bonus shares also when the joint ventures declare bonus shares. This enables the
Indian promoters to raise their equity and to earn higher dividends.
Indian joint ventures are facing many problems by the Indian joint
ventures abroad:
Inability to assess the market prospects
Failure to identify the right foreign counterpart
Non-approval of technology sought to be supplied by Indian partners.
Inability of the Indian companies to adjust themselves in the new
environment and (no sheltered market in the overseas market)
Price competition
Definitions
(a) Direct Investment shall mean investment by an
Indian party in the equity share capital of a foreign
concern with a view to acquiring a long interest in that
concern. Besides the equity stake, such long term
interest may be reflected through representation on the
Board of Directors of the foreign concern and in the
supply of technical know-how, capital goods,
components, raw materials, etc. and managerial
personnel to the foreign concern.
(b) Host country shall mean the country in which the
foreign concern receiving the direct investment is
formed, registered or incorporated.
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(c) Indian party shall mean a private or public limited
company incorporated in accordance with the laws, of
India. When more than one Indian body corporate
make a direct investment in a foreign concern, all the
bodies corporate shall together constitute the Indian
party.
(d) Joint Venture shall mean a foreign concern formed,
registered or incorporated in accordance with the laws
and regulations of the host country in which the
Indian party makes a direct investments, whether such
investment amounts to a majority or minority
shareholding.
(e) Wholly Owned Subsidiary shall mean foreign
concern formed, registered or incorporated in
accordance with the laws and regulations of the host
country whose entire equity share capital is owned by
the Indian par
Automatic Approval
An application for direct investment in a joint venture/wholly owned
subsidiary abroad from a Private/Public Ltd.Co. will be eligible for automatic
approval by R.B.I. provided:
a) The total value of the investment by the Indian party does not exceed US $4
(four) million,
b) The amount of investment is upto 25% of annual average export earnings of
the company in the preceding three years and
The amount of investment should be repatriated in full by way of dividends,
royalty, technical services fee ect with in a period of five years investment.
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The investment may, besides cash remittance at the discretion of the Indian
party, be contributed by the capitalization in full or in part of
(a) Indian made plant, machinery, equipment and components
supplied to the foreign concern;
(b) The proceeds of goods exported by the Indian party to the foreign
concern;
(c) Fees, royalties, commissions or other entitlements from the
foreign concern for the supply to technical know-how,
consultancy, managerial or other services.
Within the overall limit of US$4 million the Indian party, may opt for:
(1) cash remittance;
(2) capitalization of export proceeds towards equity; or
(3) giving loans or corporate guarantees to /on behalf of Indian JVs/WOSs.,
For loans / Guarantees from banks / financial institution from India to/ on behalf
of Indian JVs/WOSs abroad requisite clearances from commercial banking
angle for loans and guarantees as required would need to be taken as normally
prescribed.
Where R.B.I in its judgment, feels that a proposal under automatic route is
predominantly real estate-oriented, such proposals shall be remitted to the High
Level Committee.
Time Limit. All implication under the automatic route will be eligible for
approval within 21 days of receipts of complete application by RBI, which shall
include a broad feasibility study, a statement of credit-worthiness from a bank,
and statement from a Chartered Accountant verifying the ratios, projections
made, etc.
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In case the application is for takeover of participation in an existing unit , the
basis of share valuation shall be certified by a Chartered Accountant.
This facility of automatic approval will be available to the Indian party in
respect of the same JVs/WOs only once in a block of three financial years
including the financial year in which the investment is made. However, within
the overall limit of US $ 4million the Indian party may be permitted to invest
equity/provide guarantee etc.on the automatic route on more than one occasion.
However, non-automatic route may be availed of without these restrictions.
Special Committe
All applications involving investment beyond US $4million but not exceeding
US$15 million or those not qualifying for fast track clearance on the basis of
the applicable criteria outlined, above and all application where RBI feels that
the proposal under automatic route is predominantly real estate-oriented, will be
processed in the RBI through a Special Committee appointed by RBI in
consultation with Government and chaired by the Commerce Secretary with
the Deputy Governor , RBI., as the Alternate Chairman. The Committee shall
have as members representative of the Ministry of Commerce, Ministry of
Finance, Ministry of External Affairs and the RBI. The Committee shall co-opt
as members other Secretaries/Institutions dealing with the Sector to which the
case before the Committee relates.
A recommendation will be made within 60 days of receipt of the complete
application and RBI will grant of refuse permission on the basis of the
recommendations. Such proposals should be accompanied by a technical
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appraisal by any of the designated agencies (currently they are IDBI,ICICI,
Exim Bank and SBI) to be arranged for by the applicant.
The committee will , inter alia, review the criteria for and progress of all
overseas investments under these gudelines and evolve its own procedures for
consultations and approvals.
Criteria
In considering an application under category B, the Committee shall, inter
alia, have due regard to the following:
(a) the financial position, standing and business track record of the Indian
and foreign parites.
(b) Experience and track record of the Indian party in exports and its
external orientation.
(c) Quantum of the proposed investment and the size of the overseas venture
in the context of the resources, net worth and scale of operations of the
Indian party; and
(d) Repatriation by way of dividends, fees, royalties, commissions or other
entitlements from the foreign concerns for supply of technical know-
how, consultancy, managerial or other services n five years w.e.f. the
date of approval of investments.
(e) Benefits to the country in terms of foreign exchange earnings, two way
trade generation, technology transfer, access to raw materials,
intermediates or final products not available in India.
(f) Pima facie viability of the proposed investment.
Indian financial and banking institutions considering to support the
venture will examine independently the commercial viability of the
proposal .
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Post Approval Changes
In the case of a joint venture in which the Indian party has a minority
equity shareholding, the Indian party shall report to the Ministry of Commerce
and the Reserve Bank of India the details of following decisions taken by the
joint venture within 30 days of the approval of these decisions by the
shareholders/promoters/Directors of the joint in terms of the local laws of the
host country:
(i) undertake any activity different from the activity originally approved by
the R.B.I/ Government of India for the direct investment ;
(iii)
participate in the equity capital of another concern;
(iv)
promote a subsidiary or a wholly owned subsidiary as
a second generation foreign concern;
(v)
after its share capital structure, authorities or issued,
or its share holding pattern.
(vi)
After its share capital structure, authorized or issued ,
or its shareholding pattern.
(a) undertake any activity different from the
activity originally approved for the direct
investment;
(b) participation in the equity capital of another
concern;
(c) promote a subsidiary or a wholly owned
subsidiary as a second generation concern;
(d) after its share capital structure, authorized or
issued or its shareholding pattern.
Provided, the following conditions are fulfilled;
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(a) the Indian party has repatriated all entitlement due to it from the foreign
concern, including dividends, fees and royalities and this is duly certified
by a Chartered Accountant ;
(b) the Indian party has no overdues older than 180 days from the foreign
concern in respect of its export of its exports to the latter;
(c) the Indian party does not seek any cash remittance from Indian; and
(d) the percentage of equity shareholding of the Indian party in the first
generation joint venture or wholly owned subsidiary is not reduced, it is
pursued to the laws of the host country.
The Indian party shall report to Ministry of Commerce and the Reserve
Bank of India the detail of the decisions taken by the joint venture or
wholly owned subsidiary within 30 days of the approval of those
decision by the shareholders/promoters/Directors in terms of the local
laws of the host country, together with a statement on the fulfillment of
the conditions mentioned above.
In the case of subscription by an Indian party to its entitlement of
equity shares issued by a joint venture on Right basis, or in the case of
subscription by an Indian party to the issue of additional share capital by
a joint venture or a wholly owned. Subsidiary, prior approval of the
R.B.I shall be taken for such subscription.
Large investment
Investment proposals in excess of US $15.00 million
will be considered if the required resources beyond US
$15.00 million are raised through the GDR route. Upto
50% of resources raised may be invested as equity in
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overseas joint venture subject to specific approvals of
the Government. Applications for investment beyond US
$ 15.0 million would be recived in the RBI and
transmitted to Ministry of Finance for examination with
the recommendation of the Special Committee. Each
case would, with due regard to the criteria outlined
above , be subjected to rigorous scrutiny to determine its
overall benefit. Investments beyond US$ 15.00 million
without GDR resources will be considered only in very
exceptional circumstances where a company has a strong
track record of exports. All proposals under this category
should be accompanied by the documentation as detailed
above.
Foreign Exchange
(i)
Indian parities intending to conduct preliminary study with regard
to feasibility, viability, assessment of fair price of the assets for the
existing /proposed overseas concern, identification of foreign
collaborators, etc. before deciding to set up / acquire an overseas
concern/bid for the same may approach the concerned Regional
Office of Reserve Bank for prior approval for a availing the
services of overseas consultants/ merchant bankers involving
remittance towards payment of fees, incidental charges, etc.
(ii)
For release of exchange of meeting preliminary/ pre-operative
expenses in connection with joint venture/ subsidiary abroad
approved by Government of India / Reserve Bank o India,
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applications should be made to the concerned Regional Office of
Reserve Bank, Reserve Bank will consider releasing exchange
keeping in view, inter alia, the nature of the project total project
cost, need for meeting such expenses from India, etc. subject to
such condition s as deemed necessary including repatriation of
amounts so released. Remittance towards, recurring expenses for
the upkeep of the joint venture / subsidiary abroad will , however ,
not be permitted.
The foreign exchanges needed for overseas investment may be drawn
after the approval is granted either from an autyorsied dealer or by
utilizing the balance available in the EFFC account of the Indian party or
by any other means specified in the letter of approval.
Acquisition of shares and issue of holding licence
Where equity contribution are made by way of cash remittance or
capitalization of royalty, technical know-how fees, etc., Indian promoter
companies are requied to receive share certificates of equivalent value
from the overseas concern within three months from the date of effecting
such cash remittance or Mthe date on which three the royalty, fees, etc.
become due for payment . As soon as shares are acquired from the
overseas concern, Indian companies should apply in form FAD2 to the
concerned office of Reserve bank for obtaining necessary licence to hold
such foreign security as required under section 19 (i) (e) of FERA,1973.
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Acceptance of Directorship of Overseas Companies and Acquisition of
Qualification Shares
Persons resident in Indian are free to accept appointments as directors
on the board of the overseas companies. However they will require permission
from Reserve Bank for any remittance toward acquisition of qualification
shares, if any, of the overseas company for which application in form A2
together with an offer letter of the overseas company should be made to the
concerned Regional Office of Reserve Bank through and authorized dealer. On
receipt of shares from the foreign concern, applications in form FAD2 should be
made to the concerned office of the Reserve Bank for issue of necessary holding
licence. Such directors are also required to repatriate to India promptly,
remuneration, if any, recived by way of sitting fees, etc. through normal banking
channels.
Export of Goods
Both under Category A and Category B above, secondhand or
reconditioned indigenous machinery may be supplied by the Indian party
towards its contribution to the direct investment in the foreign concern.
Agency Commission
No agency commission shall be payable to a joint venture / wholly owned
subsidiary against the exports made by the Indian party towards its equity
investment. Similarly, no agency commission shall be payable to a trading joint
venture/wholly owned subsidiary if the Indian party makes an outright sale to it.
Remittance towards equity, loans and invoked guarantees
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(i)
Where the Indian promoter companies have been permitted to
make equity contribution by way of cash remittance they should
apply for release of foreign exchange to the concerned Regional
Office of Reserve Bank in form A2, in duplicate, through their
authorised dealer. In case the remittance to be effected out of the
funds held in their EEFC account, prior permission from RBI will,
however , not be necessary. In both the cases, after the remittance,
the particulars thereof, along with the certificate of the authorized
dealer concerned, should be reported by the Indian company to the
concerned Regional Office of RBI positively within 15 days from
the date of such remittance.
(ii)
In case of remittance of loan amount, if specifically approved by
RBI, the aforesaid procedure should be followed and particulars of
remittance should be reported to the concerned Regional Office of
RBI within 15 days from the date of such remittance. Where issue
of guarantee by the Indian company has been specifically
approved by Reserve Bank, a certified copy of such guarantee
should be submitted to the concerned Regional Office of RBI
within 15 days from the date of issue of such guarantee to or on
behalf of the RBI. If and when such guarantee is invoked , the
Indian company should approach the concerned Regional Office or
Reserve Bank through their authorized dealer for effecting
remittance, towards the invoked guarantee. After effecting the
remittance, the particulars thereof should be reported to Resevre
Bank as in the case of remittances made for equity and for loan.
(Sources : Exports, What, Where, How-paras Ram
REVIEW QUESTIONS:
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1. What is a joint venture? Explain its main characteristics.
2. Bring a status on Indian joint ventures abroad.
3. What are the basic objectives of the joint ventures?
4. Explain remittance towards equity, loans and invoked
guarantee.
5. What is acquisition of shares and issue of holdings license?
6. Explain post approval changes.
7. Explain the criteria under category B.
8. Examine the conditions for getting automatic approvals of joint
ventures.
9. Define- Direct Investment, Host Country, Indian Party, Joint
Venture and Wholly Owned Subsidiary.
10. Bring out the status of Indian Joint Ventures abroad.
11. Examine the factors influencing the selection of a country for
establishment of joint ventures.
Explain incentives offered by the developing countries for joint
ventures?
LESSON-4
PROJECT AND CONSULTANCY EXPORTS.
Introduction:
Meaning of project and consultancy exports
Profile of the project exports
Export of construction projects and its problems and prospects
Major assistance for projects exports
Consultancy exports
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Incentive to consultancy exports
Future of consultancy exports
After reading this lesson you will be able to
understand:
Meaning of Project and consultancy Exports
Profile of the project export
Special features of construction export and its
problems
Major assistance by the Govt. for construction
exports
Meaning of Consultancy exports
Incentives to consultancy exports
Future of consultancy exports
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Introduction:
There are many indicators of economic development and one of them is the
composition of exports. By exports one generally feels of export of goods and
services. A less developed country exports mostly agricultural and allied goods
and thus its exports items bring less foreign exchange. That is the reason why
these less developed countries always complain about unfavourable terms of
trade. After the country has achieved a level of development, its composition of
foreign trade also undergoes changes- from agricultural goods to industrial
goods, and lastly knowledge based goods. These goods are mostly in the form of
services and come under expertise like engineering projects and consultancy
projects. Thus exports of these goods not only bring more foreign capital but
also add to the prestige of the country.
Meaning of project export:
Project exports include Turnkey projects such as rendering of services like
design, civil construction, erection and commissioning of plant or supervision
thereof, along with the supply of equipment. It also includes, engineering
services contracts, involving the supply of services alone, such as design,
erection, commissioning or supervision of erection and commissioning.
Consultancy services contract generally include the preparation of feasibility
studies, project reports, preparation of designs and advice to the project
authority on specifications for plant and equipment, preparation of tender
documents, evaluation of tenders and purchase of plant and equipment. This also
includes civil construction contracts, with or without preparation of designs or
drawings for the civil work to be undertaken.
Profile of the Project Export:
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The profile of Project exports in India has not been encouraging. Still during last
three decades, India has been able to register its presence it the world arena of
this type of exports. Thus we can say that in the last three decades, India has
achieved a moderate success so far as project export and capital goods and civil
engineering jobs are concerned. On an average these categories account for
about 40 percent of India`s total engineering exports.
Even in the glooming weather the success achieved by the Indian companies in
the field of construction contracts can be considered as spectacular. The Middle
East Countries emerged as the very important markets for infrastructural
projects because of their huge revenue gained through oil. Since 1981 Indian
companies have secured contracts in the field of Township, Airports, High Rise
Buildings, Water and Sewerage Treatment Plants, Flyovers and , New railway
lines from the countries like Iraq and Libya. The year 1981 is considered to be
the peak year provided contracts worth Rs. 1,594 crores to Indian construction
companies. Since 1981, however a decline has set in construction project
exports. But Indian companies have found new avenues in Afghanistan and
Kuwait and are waiting for the better from Iraq in the near future.
The contracts secured in the recent years have been quite diverse in nature,
indicating the growing versatility and technological capabilities of Indian project
exporters . The West Asian region still continues to be the major markets in
South East Asia and Sub-Saharan Africa account for the remaining half.
Construction Project Export and its Problems:
The present construction scenario on the international level is quite complex and
intense competition is found among big giants due to the reduced size of the
global construction market which was estimated to be around $225 billion
during 1985-90 annually as per the study of the World Bank.
Problems:
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1. Competition among construction companies is the major problem before
the Indian companies because they have to compete with the giants in
this field operating for a ling time and having better expertise.
2. Financial constraints have posed big limitation on the underdeveloped
countries to implement execution even those projects which are
absolutely necessary for developing the infrastructure facilities.
3. Another factor which does not favour Indian companies in the
international scenario is that the Indian consultancy firms have not
developed much. Consultants who are forerunners of the project have a
dominant role to play for the award of contracts as well as for laying
down specifications for the material to be used in the projects, et c. It is
usually observed that these consultants lay down specifications and
terms and conditions which are mostly to the advantage of contractors,
though having adequate experience, do mot either get pre qualified ar are
unable to offer competitive bids due to these reasons.
MAJOR ASSISTANCE FOR PROJECT EXPORT:
One of the most prominent reasons behind less participation of the Indian
project exporters has been the cost associated with such participation . It is
roughly estimated that it costs around Rs. two lakhs for a tender of about Rs.
10 crores. In order to solve this problem, the government announced a new
system of assistance in September 1986 to subsidise the costs of
participation in global tenders. The major help provided by the government
in this regard is listed below:
1. MDA assistance for reimbursement of cost of preparation and
submission of bids fr such projects will be given at the following rates:
a. 50% of the cost subject to the following standard cost ceilings related to
the Turnkey , Construction project, Operation and Maintenance Services
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Contracts. Bids which have the value up to Rs. 5 crores--Rs.1 lakh, Bids
of value above Rs. 5 crores--Rs.2 lakhs, Bids of the value of Rs. 25
crores and up to Rs. 100 crores--Rs. 4 lakhs, and Bids of the value above
Rs. 100 crores--Rs. 6 lakhs.
b. The Government will reimburse the finance cost of bid bond in the
following way:
MDA assistance will be given for 50 per cent of the financing cost of bid
bonds. For the purpose of MDA grant, the maximum period of life for a
bid bond would be assumed to be one year and any financing cost beyond
the period of one year would be born by the company and no
reimbursement for this would be made from MDA funds.
The subsidy towards financing cost will not be reimbursed in the event of
bid being successful. A certificate from ECGC, Commercial Bank, EXIM
Bank regarding net financing cost incurred by the Company will have to
be furnished.
2. Besides Supplier`s Credit and Buyer`s Credit, the EXIM Bank has also
been extending lines of credit to various developing countries with a
view to encourage projects exports.
3. The Government has extended income tax exemption on earnings from
exports of projects under Section 80 HHB of the Income Tax Act.
4. Import of used machinery and equipments by the project exporters has
been allowed on concessional customs duty basis at 15% advalorem.
5. EXIM bank has also been extending lines of credit to various developing
countries with a view to encouraging India`s Project Export.
6. EXIM bank has recently introduced a strategic market entry support
scheme to reimburse the cost of tendering in respect of successful bids
submitted to multilaterally funded overseas projects.
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CONSULTANCY EXPORTS:
India is a very late entrant in the field of Consultancy Export market. This
market was dominated by the developed countries where Subsidiary Sector
was well developed to cater to the needs of the third world countries. But
with the development of the economy, the number of engineering graduates
has increased tremendously. And this is the reason that India boasts of
having the third largest engineering manpower in the world. Therefore, now,
India is in a position to enter this highly sophisticated and expanding
segment of world trade. India has over 200 consultancy and design
organizations. India which earned merely Rs. 1 crore in the year 1974-75
became proud of herself when in the year 1993-94 she earned Rs. 1,369
crores. The major areas in which Indian consultancy has achieved
considerable success are technical management of cement plants,
agricultural research services, setting up of molasses-based distilleries, sugar
projects, petrochemical industries, design programming, computer software,
cooling tower system, fuel firing systems, architectural, structural , electrical
and air conditioning engineering designs, transport and communications
management, techno economic feasibility repo0rts, market surveys, etc. The
major destinations or to say countries where exports of consultancy services
were made are France, Japan, Norway, the UK, the USA, Russia, Holland,
Switzerland, Sweden. Kuwait, Muscat, UAE, Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Iran,
Algeria, Oman, Ethiopia, Cameroon, Tanzania, Singapore, Hong Kong, Sri
Lanka, Korea, Indonesia, Pakistan, Malaysia and Laos.
The Government of India has given following incentives or concessions
to the Consultancy Organization:
1. Those consultancy exporters whose annual foreign exchange earnings by
way of export of services are not less than Rs. 5 lakhs, are eligible of
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foreign exchanged facilities for business development, purchase of
tender documents, payments of commission, bid bonds etc.
2. For the purpose of covering risks, the ECGC has designed policies to
cover specific transactions of services exports.
3. The Government is providing marketing Development Assistance to
consultancy organizations which are registered with FIEO for
undertaking market studies, opening of foreign offices, publicity
campaigns and feasibility studies.
4. Income deduction is given up to 50% of the net foreign exchange
earnings in computing total income.
5. EXIM Bank has introduced a scheme, under which deferred payment
facilities are available from the Bank in respect of consultancy jobs to be
undertaken from India.
6. The Government also provides facilities for bid preparation as already
explained in the project export section.
7. Cent per cent income tax exemption is given on export profit from
computer software.
Apart from that the Govt. has set up a Consultancy Trust Fund of US$ ) 5
million with the World Bank to be utilized for engaging Indian consultants
for World Bank ? financed projects.
PROSPECTS FOR THE FUTURE:
Indian firms have by now gained enough experience through participation in
domestic projects of a diverse variety which is catering to the needs of the
developing countries. Scope exists to initiate our presence in new markets,
and cover new sectors. The recent trends observed in the pattern of bidding
by Indian project exporters are encouraging particularly for project
opportunities in neighbouring and other developing countries. Indian project
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exporters technical and managerial capabilities are of the highest order in the
world market. Indian project exporters are hopeful of penetrating new
markets overseas to secure increased share in project exports.
REVIEW QUESTIONS:
1. Explain the meaning of Project and Consultancy Exports.
2. Examine the profile of project export.
3. Explain construction project export and its problems.
4. Explain major assistance given by the Government for project export.
5. What is consultancy export? Explain.
6. Examine the various incentives given by the Government to the
consultancy organization.
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This post was last modified on 14 March 2022