BHUBANESWAR: The State Government has decided to introduce exporters’ card (green card) for the exporters to facilitate early passage of consignments at check gates on a priority basis.

The Government has finalised the export policy to boost exports from the State by extending support to entrepreneurs. The Odisha Small Industries Corporation (OSIC) has been authorised to supply raw material and fuel (such as coal) to the exporting units.

Besides, workshops would be organised at different levels by the Directorate of Export Promotion and Marketing (DEP&M) in collaboration with Export Promotion Councils (EPCs) and Federation of Indian Export Organisations (FIEO).

As an incentive for entrepreneurs, the State Government has decided to provide 50 per cent of travel expenses, limited to `50,000, of not more than two persons from a firm for participation in international trade fairs.

Official sources said the State would also frequently facilitate the visit of foreign delegations to various industries in the State to expose them to various products and boost exports.

The policy envisages steps to create containerised facilities at ports in the State to ensure that exporters get facilities to export their goods through ports located in the State instead of those outside.

Export parks and trade centres will also be set up at places having export potential in the State. Besides, steps will be taken to showcase Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) products at important cities of the country. Establishment of a World Trade Organisation (WTO) cell is also on the cards to keep the exporters updated about developments across the world.

While export awards will be given annually to create a spirit of competitiveness, a decision has been taken to organise international buyers and sellers meet at Bhubaneswar to boost exports from the State.

Other infrastructure support proposed to be provided include establishment of warehousing and container facilities and inland container depot at different locations of the State for cargo storage and customs clearance.

Besides, a ‘Made in Odisha’ campaign will be launched to promote Odisha products. A Market Development Fund will be created to provide market development assistance to the industries for venturing into overseas markets.

The export policy which was approved by the State Cabinet aims at increasing exports from `12,246 crore in 2012-13 to `38,714 crore within 10 years.

Source : New Indian Express...