The Export Promotion Council for Handicrafts (EPCH), in association with the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), Regional Authority, Guwahati, organised a virtual Export Awareness Programme for artisans, entrepreneurs, producer groups, cooperatives and aspiring exporters from Manipur.
The programme aimed to create awareness about export opportunities and enhance participants’ understanding of export procedures, international trade requirements, market access, export documentation and government initiatives supporting exports from the North Eastern Region.
Welcoming the participants, Bhaskar Baruah, Export Promotion Officer, EPCH, North Eastern Regional Office, highlighted Manipur’s rich handicraft and handloom heritage and its vast export potential. He noted that products such as handwoven textiles, bamboo and cane crafts, black pottery, natural fibre products and other traditional handicrafts have growing demand in international markets. He encouraged local artisans and entrepreneurs to tap into the global market for handmade and sustainable products.
The technical session was conducted by Abhishek Anand, Section Head, DGFT, who provided detailed guidance on obtaining the Import Export Code (IEC), export registration procedures, documentation requirements, digital trade facilitation platforms and various DGFT schemes aimed at promoting exports. He also explained the role of DGFT in strengthening India’s export ecosystem and supporting emerging exporters through policy measures and digital services.
Participants were introduced to key aspects of export business, including product selection, quality standards, packaging, branding, market identification, buyer sourcing and digital marketing strategies. The session also highlighted support services and promotional initiatives offered by EPCH and other government agencies.
Around 40 participants from different parts of Manipur attended the programme and actively engaged in the interactive session, seeking guidance on export procedures, market opportunities and business expansion strategies.
The programme forms part of EPCH’s ongoing efforts, in collaboration with DGFT and other stakeholders, to strengthen the export ecosystem in the North Eastern Region and encourage greater participation of artisans and entrepreneurs in international trade.